{"id":14542,"date":"2026-01-05T10:13:01","date_gmt":"2026-01-05T15:13:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.goodwin.edu\/enews\/?p=14542"},"modified":"2026-01-05T10:13:01","modified_gmt":"2026-01-05T15:13:01","slug":"cpcta-exam-information","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.goodwin.edu\/enews\/cpcta-exam-information\/","title":{"rendered":"The CPCT\/A Exam: Everything You Need to Know to Get Certified"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you\u2019re exploring a healthcare career, specifically as a patient care assistant or technician<\/a>, you\u2019ve likely encountered the CPCT\/A exam in your research. Maybe it came up while browsing job listings. Or perhaps an academic advisor mentioned it as an essential next step.<\/p>\n

Either way, it\u2019s worth paying attention to.<\/p>\n

According to the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), 96% of employers<\/a> \u201crequire or encourage\u201d certification for patient care technicians and assistants. That\u2019s a powerful statistic, and a clear signal that certification is no longer optional for many aspiring healthcare professionals. It\u2019s becoming the standard.<\/p>\n

In this guide, we\u2019ll walk through everything you need to know about the CPCT\/A exam, from what it is and who needs it, to what\u2019s on the test and how to prepare. If you\u2019re serious about launching a career in patient care, this is information you\u2019ll want to have.<\/p>\n

What is the CPCT\/A exam?<\/h2>\n

The Certified Patient Care Technician\/Assistant (CPCT\/A) exam is a nationally recognized certification offered by the National Healthcareer Association. It\u2019s designed to verify that an individual has the foundational knowledge and hands-on skills required to work effectively in patient care roles.<\/p>\n

Patient care technicians and assistants play a critical role in healthcare settings. They work closely with patients and support nurses, physicians, and other medical professionals. Because of this, employers want assurance that candidates understand safety protocols, clinical procedures, and professional standards.<\/p>\n

That\u2019s where the CPCT\/A exam comes in.<\/p>\n

Earning this certification shows that you\u2019ve been trained in essential patient care competencies and are prepared to work in fast-paced environments such as hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and rehabilitation centers.<\/p>\n

Is CPCT\/A certification required to become a patient care assistant?<\/h2>\n

The answer really depends on where you want to work, but the trend is clear.<\/p>\n

While some entry-level roles may not legally require certification, most employers strongly prefer it. As previously noted, the NHA reports that 96% of employers either require or encourage certification for patient care technicians and assistants.<\/p>\n

From an employer\u2019s perspective, certification reduces risk. It confirms that a candidate has met national standards and can perform patient care tasks safely and professionally. From a job seeker\u2019s perspective, it can significantly influence hiring decisions.<\/p>\n

Certification can help you:<\/p>\n