top of page
Search

The Complete Guide to the NHA CCMA Exam: What to Expect

  • Writer: Elnaz Sarabchian
    Elnaz Sarabchian
  • 3 days ago
  • 2 min read

Introduction: The First Step to Certification


The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam is the key to launching your medical assistant career. For many students, just hearing the word “exam” brings stress—but with the right preparation, passing is completely within reach.


This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the CCMA exam: format, topics, scoring, and how Clinical Skills Institute (CSI) helps students feel confident on exam day.


Online Medical Assistant

What is the NHA CCMA Exam?


The CCMA exam is a national certification test that proves you have the skills and knowledge to work as a medical assistant. Employers trust this credential because it shows you meet recognized industry standards.


  • Exam Length: ~3 hours

  • Questions: 150 scored questions + 30 pretest questions

  • Format: Multiple-choice (computer-based)

  • Location: Administered at PSI testing centers or online proctored exams


What Topics Does the Exam Cover?


The exam tests a wide range of clinical and administrative knowledge. Key domains include:


  1. Foundational Knowledge & Skills (Anatomy, physiology, medical terminology)

  2. Clinical Patient Care (Vital signs, phlebotomy, EKGs, specimen collection)

  3. Patient Care Coordination & Education (Patient communication, care plans)

  4. Administrative Assisting (Scheduling, billing, EHR)

  5. Communication & Customer Service (Patient interactions, professionalism)

  6. Medical Law & Ethics (HIPAA, informed consent, compliance)


How is the Exam Scored?


  • Passing Score: 390 out of 500

  • Scaled Scoring: This means your score reflects both the number of correct answers and the difficulty level of the questions.

  • Results are typically available within a few days.


How to Prepare for the CCMA Exam


Use Official Resources

The NHA provides exam blueprints and practice materials. Start there to understand expectations.


Take Practice Exams

CSI students get six full-length mock exams built into tuition, so by the time they sit for the test, they’ve already practiced exam conditions multiple times.


Study in Modules

Breaking content into smaller sections (anatomy, pharmacology, infection control, etc.) helps you master one topic at a time.


Practice Scenarios

Many CCMA questions are situational. CSI integrates real-world case studies into lessons so students learn how to apply knowledge, not just memorize it.


CSI’s Built-In Exam Prep Advantage


Unlike other programs that charge extra for prep, CSI includes exam readiness in tuition:


  • 📘 All textbooks and eBooks

  • 📝 Six practice exams

  • 🎓 NHA exam fee covered

  • ✅ Requirement to pass a mock exam with 80%+ before registering


This ensures students are fully prepared and confident before sitting for the real exam.


What Happens After the Exam?


Once you pass the CCMA exam, you’ll receive your official certification and can immediately start applying for jobs nationwide. Many CSI graduates secure positions within weeks of passing.


Conclusion: Confidence Comes from Preparation


The NHA CCMA exam doesn’t have to be intimidating. With clear expectations and the right preparation, you can pass on your first try and step into a career with confidence.


👉 Ready to start preparing? Enroll with Clinical Skills Institute and get everything you need for exam-day success—for just $900.

Comments

bottom of page