Congrats on Reaching the 3,000-Hour Mark—You’re Almost There!
If you’ve found your way to this page, then congratulations are in order—you’ve just crossed a huge milestone in your journey toward becoming an LCSW! Completing your 3,000 hours of supervision is no small feat, and now, you’re gearing up for the final leg of this adventure. The next step? Passing the exam, of course!
So, what’s next? Well, here’s the guide to help you with your next big move: the application process.
Step 1: Submit Your Application Packet
Now that you’re ready to take the plunge, it’s time to get your application packet together. You’ll find everything you need on the BBS website, including the forms you need to submit.
Tip: I personally found the application checklist to be a lifesaver. It was super helpful to check things off as I went along. But here’s the key—don’t rush it! Double and triple-check every single document before you hit that submit button. You don’t want to risk any delays or issues by missing something. (Trust me, you really don’t want to get caught in the waiting game longer than necessary!)
Step 2: The Waiting Game—Make It Count
Once you’ve submitted your packet, there’s a bit of a waiting period while the board reviews your submission. What you do with that time is totally up to you! Personally, I decided to use it to get ahead and start studying for the exam. That way, once I got the green light, I was all set to apply for the exam and hit the ground running.
Step 3: Consider Accommodations (Trust Me, You’ll Be Glad You Did)
Here’s something I wish I knew sooner: If you feel you might be eligible for accommodations, DO IT. I took advantage of this and it was an absolute game-changer. For me, it meant extended time and the luxury of having a room all to myself during the exam—talk about stress relief!
If you’re considering accommodations, you can find more details here. Just a heads-up—apply for accommodations before you apply for the exam. This is super important!
Step 4: Schedule Your Exam
Once you’ve received approval for both your accommodations (if applicable) and your exam eligibility, it’s time to schedule your exam. You’re getting so close now!
But Wait, How Do You Actually Pass the Exam?
Okay, I know you’re wondering this (and I don’t blame you!). Passing the LCSW exam may feel intimidating, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. In my next post, I’ll walk you through tips, strategies, and resources that will set you up for success. Stay tuned, because we’re about to tackle that exam head-on!
