The MCHES examination is a criterion-referenced test that contains 165 multiple choice items; 150 of the items are used for the total score and there are 15 pilot items on each exam. The MCHES examination is offered in paper-and-pencil format at college campuses throughout the United States. While there are approximately 120 testing sites currently registered, any campus with a testing service is eligible to become a testing site.

Basis for the MCHES Examination

The MCHES examination is based upon the following Seven Areas of Responsibility for Health Education Specialists(pdf), as delineated in A Competency-Based Framework for Health Education Specialists 2010.

The MCHES exam eligibility includes both academic and experience requirements.

• For CHES: A minimum of the past five (5) continuous years in active status as a Certified Health Education Specialist.
• For Non-CHES or CHES with fewer than five years active status AND five years experience:
o A Master’s degree or higher in Health Education, Public Health Education, School Health Education, Community Health Education, etc.,
o OR a Master’s degree or higher with an academic transcript reflecting at least 25 semester hours (37 quarter hours) of course work in which the Seven Areas of Responsibility of Health Educators were addressed.

AND Five (5) years of documented experience as a health education specialist

To verify applicants must submit:

1. Two verification forms from a current or past manager/supervisor, and/or a leader in a health education professional organization.

2. A current curriculum vitae/ resume
In the verification form it must be indicated, and in the curriculum vitae/resume it must clearly be shown, that the applicant has been engaged in the Areas of Responsibility for at least the past five years (experience may be prior to completion of graduate degree).

Prescreen Service (Optional) Academic Component ONLY
o This is a separate optional service offered to non-CHES and should ONLY be used if you are not sure you meet the requirements for the MCHES exam. The prescreen service will review the academic component of eligibility. If you are found to be eligible that $25 prescreen request will be deducted from the exam registration fee and an application and instructions will be mailed to you. If ineligible, course deficiencies will be identified and guidance will be provided.

Prescreen Schedule:
 April Cycle: November 1- February 1
 October Cycle: May 2- August 1

Requests for Special Testing Accommodations

Applicants requesting special arrangements and other special needs due to disabilities or religious restrictions must indicate this information on the application. Supporting documentation is required such as a letter from a religious leader indicating necessity to take for the exam on Sunday if choosing a Sabbath site. All requests must be received by application final deadline.