SOCIAL WORK EXAM PREP

LMSW Exam Prep 

ASWB Masters Level Exam

There’s a better way to study.

And you just found it.

*Multiple purchases of the same course under one account will only result in a single course being visible. If you would like to purchase the same course for multiple users, please submit an inquiry here.

Write your awesome label here.

What sets TDC apart:

  • Your online access starts immediately, and we offer free extensions as needed
  • 600+ practice exam questions with detailed rationales
  • Experienced LMSWs coaches are available to answer questions and provide support
  • Structured, step-by-step study program developed by LMSWs who have passed the exam
  • Proven study techniques to help you succeed on exam day, including online audio, downloadable handouts, and Clinical examples that help you understand concepts, not just memorize them
  • We teach you the Top 50 essential knowledge areas, and provide clear strategies to confidently approach reasoning-based questions, without overwhelming you with anything extra
  • Our self-paced program is designed to maximize learning and minimize stress. The program takes about 50 hours to complete once and can be repeated as needed
  • Anxiety management tools
  • We’re with you until you pass! 

Study smart. Pass with confidence.

Disclaimer: The licensure preparation programs and materials associated with them were not included in the Association of Social Work Boards Approved Continuing Education (ACE) review and are not approved by ASWB for continuing education nor endorsed by ASWB in any manner. 
Important: Candidates for the Michigan LMSW exam should purchase our Clinical LCSW Test Prep Program. It is the study system that provides preparation for the Michigan LMSW exam. Our LMSW exam prep is for a Masters Level Exam that is NOT required in the state of Michigan.

Get Inspired
by Our Reviews

“After failing my first attempt, I knew I needed a different approach. TDC completely changed how I studied. I actually felt calm walking into my exam this time! I passed my LMSW and will 100% be using TDC again when I go for my LCSW.”
     
Sara Perez, Texas
October 6, 2025
LMSW Exam Prep: ASWB Masters Level Exam
“Worth the investment!!! Failed my LMSW by 1 point the first time and after using this program I passed with 16 points more than I needed to pass!! As someone with AuDHD, I found this program helped improve my understanding of the reasoning questions and the MANY MANY mock quizzes and exams (and the awesome quick study guides!) were very helpful in helping me get prepared. If you struggle with test anxiety too, this is the program for you!! Lots of great test taking tips!”
     
Lauren Corrigan, Minnesota
September 17, 2025
LMSW Exam Prep: ASWB Masters Level Exam
“I cannot recommend the Therapist Development Center (TDC) enough for anyone preparing for their LMSW exam. This program gave me all the knowledge I needed to feel fully prepared. I went through the program twice—which I highly recommend—and each round helped deepen my understanding and sharpen my skills. By the end, I felt confident in both myself and my abilities.The TDC materials didn’t just teach me facts; they strengthened my problem-solving and reasoning skills, which made all the difference on exam day. The night before my exam, I took the mock exam and scored an 81%—a big jump from the 60–70% range I had been scoring earlier. I passed the LMSW exam on my first try, and I truly owe that success to TDC. Their structured, supportive, and strategic approach is exactly what I needed to succeed.”
     
Payton Fanelli, Texas
July 19, 2025
LMSW Exam Prep: ASWB Masters Level Exam

LMSW Exam Prep
 ASWB Masters Level

FAQs

1.  What is the structure of the ASWB Masters (LMSW) Exam?

The ASWB Masters (LMSW) Exam is a computer-based standardized exam. The exam includes 170 multiple choice questions. 150 of those questions are scored. The test also includes 20 nonscored ‘pretest’ questions mixed in throughout the scored items. Test takers are given 4 hours to complete the exam, with an optional 10 minute break after question 85. Prior to taking the 10 minute break after question 85, you must submit the first half of the exam. You will not be permitted to return to the first half of the exam after submitting it. You can distribute the 4 hours for the exam how you want to (it is not split into two, 2 hour halves). 

2. What is the passing score for the ASWB Masters (LMSW) Exam?

According to the ASWB website, "generally, pass points range from 90-107 correct of the 150 SCORED questions. Remember that the test also includes 20 nonscored 'pretest' questions mixed in with the scored items." 

3. When am I eligible to take the ASWB Masters (LMSW) Exam?

Eligibility to sit for the exam differs for each state. You should contact your state licensing board for the application and to determine eligibility requirements. Once you are approved by your state to take the masters level exam, they will notify the ASWB and you'll receive an authorization to test email with instructions to register.

4. How often is the ASWB Masters (LMSW) Exam administered?

The ASWB masters level exam is offered year round and can be scheduled any day of the week (some facilities are closed on Sundays).

5. How can I apply for testing accommodations for a disability or other health condition? 

Special accommodations can be requested by individuals needing nonstandard testing arrangements due to a disability. The ASWB recently published a handbook for candidates requesting nonstandard testing arrangements.

In addition, certain states allow test takers to request special arrangements  if English is not their first language.

6. Does my state provide special accommodations for ESL candidates?

Not all states and provinces allow nonstandard testing arrangements for ESL, so the ASWB encourages candidates to check with their specific licensing board for details. New York does not permit ESL arrangements and does not accept score transfers for candidates who tested with ESL arrangements in another jurisdiction.

7. What accommodations are provided for ESL candidates?

The ASWB provides additional time (up to two extra hours), and candidates may request permission to use up to two dictionaries (one bilingual translation dictionary and/or one general English dictionary).

8. Is the ASWB exam administered in other languages besides English?

No, at this time the AWB social work exams are only offered in English.

9. What do I do if I’m licensed, but moving to another state?

The answer to this question will vary based on the state you are moving to and requirements established by the state’s social work licensing board. You should reach out directly to the licensing board of the state you are moving to. The good news is, once you pass the masters level exam in one state, you should not have to take the masters level test again, even if you move. 

A growing number of states have passed legislation to join the social work licensure compact, which will allow licensed social workers to practice across state lines without needing to obtain additional licenses in each participating state.

10. How does the LCSW clinical exam compare to the LMSW masters level exam? 

Content-wise, there is a good deal of overlap between the two exams (if you think about things like the DSM, developmental models, therapy theories, research, how to respond to crises, etc., these things do not change whether you’re taking the masters or clinical level exam). The main difference between the two tests comes down to the types of questions on the exam. For the LMSW masters level exam, a little over half of the exam is made up of reasoning-based scenarios. For the LCSW exam, the vast majority of the exam is made up of reasoning-based scenarios. 

11. Do all states require the masters level (LMSW) exam?

Not all states require the masters level (LMSW) exam. Some states only require the clinical exam to be taken. States such as Washington, Wyoming, Nebraska, Florida, Michigan*, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, California, and Wisconsin do not require the masters level exam prior to taking the clinical exam.

*Clinical licensure in Michigan is referred to as ‘LMSW’, but corresponds to the clinical exam (what we and most states refer to as ‘LCSW’. If you are testing in Michigan, you want to sign up for our LCSW program, not our LMSW program). 

12.  Do I have access to a coach?

Absolutely! Free coaching is one of the key features that sets us apart from other companies. While using our program, you can submit a question anytime, and one of our coaches will email you back within two business days with a personalized response. Our programs provide everything you need to PASS WITH CONFIDENCE. If you need additional support, you can discuss your options with your coach.

13.  How do I access my course?

You can find your purchased courses in your Study Center.

14.  Can I listen to the audio files without using Wi-Fi or data?

No. At this time, audio files are streamed through our website, so you must use either Wi-Fi or mobile data.

Stay in the loop! 

Sign up for occasional TDC emails for updates, new course announcements, and opportunities to participate in surveys that help shape future courses.