The Certified Wound Specialist Exam 2025
Caring for wounds is a challenging profession. That’s why it’s important to have the right certification.
The American Board of Wound Management (ABWM) awards certificates of competency as Certified Wound Care 2025 Associates, Certified Wound Specialists and Certified Wound Specialist Physician to candidates who meet all qualifications and demonstrate proficiency in wound management.
Free Certified Wound Specialist Practice Test Online
CWS Exam Date
The Certified Wound Specialist (CWS) exam is an important step in becoming a wound care professional. It is offered by the American Board of Wound Management (ABWM).
The ABWM offers the CWS certification to health-care professionals who hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a healthcare profession and have at least three years of clinical wound care experience. Examples include registered nurses, podiatrists, physical therapists, PharmDs, physician assistants and other medical health professionals.
After initial certification, certified wound specialists must renew their certification every 10 years through examination. During the recertification process, they must also submit verification of continued active wound care practice.
Those who do not pass the CWS exam can apply to retake it using the Re-Test Application Form within 30 days of the original exam date. This is a great option for those who need to take the exam again for professional reasons.
The American Board of Wound Management (ABWM) administers the CWCA, CWS and CWSP certification exams with the help of Pearson VUE. This testing company is a leader in the development, administration and scoring of national boards certification exams.
| What is a Certified Wound Specialist (CWS)? | The Certified Wound Specialist (CWS) is a board certification from the American Board of Wound Management that validates advanced knowledge and clinical skill in wound assessment and management. |
| What is the Certified Wound Specialist certification? | The CWS certification is a nationally recognized credential that shows you meet ABWM standards for multidisciplinary wound care and are committed to evidence-based practice. |
| Who administers the CWS certification exam? | The CWS exam is developed and overseen by the American Board of Wound Management (ABWM) and delivered at Pearson VUE testing centers. |
| How is a Certified Wound Specialist different from a Certified Wound Care Specialist? | Both credentials focus on wound care, but the CWS certification emphasizes multidisciplinary, scenario-based wound management and is specifically issued by ABWM. |
| What is the basic format of the CWS exam? | The CWS exam is a computer-based test with multiple-choice questions focused on real-world wound care scenarios across several content domains. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} |
| How many questions are on the CWS exam and how long does it last? | The CWS exam has 150 multiple-choice questions and a three-hour time limit. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} |
| Is the CWS test computer-based? | Yes, the CWS test is delivered as a computer-based examination at Pearson VUE testing centers in the U.S. and internationally. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2} |
| What kinds of topics appear on CWS test questions? | CWS test questions cover wound healing science, assessment and diagnosis, patient management, etiologic considerations, and professional issues in wound care. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3} |
| Who is eligible to sit for the CWS exam? | Eligible candidates hold an approved professional license (such as MD, DPM, NP, PA, PT, OT, PharmD, RD, RN, or DVM) and have at least three years of clinical wound care experience or a qualified fellowship. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4} |
| How do I apply for the CWS certification exam? | You complete an online application on the ABWM website, submit your license and wound-care experience documentation, and pay the required exam fee. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5} |
| How do I schedule my CWS exam date? | Once ABWM approves your application, you receive authorization to schedule a test appointment with Pearson VUE within your designated eligibility window. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6} |
| How much does the CWS certification exam cost? | The CWS certification exam fee is typically around $575, paid when you apply through ABWM. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7} |
| How is the CWS exam scored? | The CWS exam uses criterion-referenced scoring, meaning a fixed passing standard is set by experts and your performance is judged against that standard rather than other test-takers. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8} |
| When will I receive my CWS exam results? | You see your exam result on screen immediately after testing and receive a printed score report before leaving the test center. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9} |
| How often do I need to renew my CWS certification? | CWS certificants renew annually with a fee and at least six hours of wound-care continuing education, and recertify by exam every 10 years. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10} |
| How much does it cost to maintain the CWS credential? | Maintenance typically includes an annual renewal fee of about $150 plus the cost of required continuing education and eventual recertification exam fees. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11} |
| How can a CWS practice test help me prepare? | A CWS practice test lets you experience the computer-based format, gauge your readiness in each content domain, and identify topics that need more review. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12} |
| Where can I find CWS exam practice questions? | You can use the ABWM Foundation practice exam and third-party CWS practice questions to build familiarity with item style and difficulty. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13} |
| Are there free CWS exam practice questions? | Yes, several online providers, including dedicated CWS prep sites, offer free sample questions to supplement official practice exams. |
| What CWS exam prep courses or study guides are available? | You can choose from independent review courses, online prep programs, and CWS-focused study guides that follow the ABWM content outline and practice exam domains. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14} |
CWS Exam Practice Questions
The Certified Wound Specialist exam is a tough one, and thorough test preparation is essential to passing. Our cws exam practice questions are a great way to get familiar with the type of questions that will be on the actual examination and will help you develop an effective study plan.
Our cws exam practice questions contain multiple choice and short answer questions that will allow you to test your knowledge. Each question has a detailed answer explanation which will enable you to understand why you answered the question correctly or incorrectly and will help you improve your performance on the real test.
Our cws exam practice questions are an important part of our comprehensive CWS study program that will prepare you for the CWS exam in less time than it takes to read the typical textbook. It also includes an interactive study system that will help you learn the topics and skills you need to know to ace the CWS exam and become a Certified Wound Specialist.
CWS Exam Prep
If you want to pass the Certified Wound Specialist Exam, it’s important that you prepare thoroughly. You need to know all aspects of wound care, including treatment modalities, patient assessment and management, education, legal and ethics.
The CWCA is a wound care certification exam that is administered by the National Alliance of Wound Care and Ostomy. It tests knowledge of the pathophysiology of wound healing and the psychological and emotional needs of patients. The exam is 120 questions and 20 of the questions are ungraded.
Despite being open to healthcare professionals, the CWCA has a lower first-time passing rate than other ABWM certifications. This is thought to be because nurses and other healthcare professionals tend to focus on the specialized aspects of wound dressings and treatment rather than encompassing the full scope of wound care management and diagnosis.
The CWCA exam includes eight categories of questions that test the knowledge of wound care, such as patient assessment, data collection and analysis, wound etiology & description and treatment administration & management. The exam also covers legal, ethical and policy aspects of wound care.
CWS Exam Prep Course
The Certified Wound Specialist Exam is a standardized test that measures a person’s requisite knowledge of wound care. It is used by the American Board of Wound Management (ABWM) to certify physicians, nurses, physical therapists, podiatrists and other wound care professionals.
The CWS is a rigorous and comprehensive test that assesses knowledge of wounds. It includes sections on physiology, pathophysiology, and therapeutics.
There are a number of different study materials available to help you prepare for the test. These include online courses, workbooks and study guides.
These study materials will help you become familiar with the ABWM exam format and content area. They will also allow you to practice taking the exam and evaluate your level of preparation.
In addition to these study materials, SWE offers an instructor-led online prep course that consists of 16 modules lasting one week. It is free to SWE Professional Members who hold a valid CSW exam attendance credit. The class also includes access to a dedicated instructor, weekly webinars, links for further learning and interactive study activities.
CWS Certification Exam Cost
Wound care is a highly sought after competency for both SNFs and home health nurses, as it reduces patient risk of pressure ulcers and improves outcomes. The cost of certification varies between programs, but is typically quite affordable and can be worth the investment as it often leads to increased wages and benefits.
LVNs and LPNs can take the Certified Wound Specialist Exam (CWS) to become wound care nurses. They will need to first pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
The CWS is an accredited wound care certification offered by the American Board of Wound Management and the National Alliance of Wound Care & Ostomy. This certification is open to RNs, physicians, podiatrists and physical therapists with at least three years of experience in wound care.
The exam is available as a computer administered test or pencil and paper, with the latter option being more convenient. A passing score of 87/125 is required to earn the Certified Wound Specialist certification. It is valid for 10 years and requires 6 hours of continuing education.
CWS Exam Application
The ABWM Certified Wound Specialist Exam is designed to assess candidates’ ability to apply their wound care knowledge and skills in the practice of wound management. The examination is primarily scenario-based, covering the basic topics of wound management, patient care and treatment, and professional standards.
To be eligible for the exam, healthcare professionals must have at least three years of wound care experience, or complete a one-year fellowship in wound care that is certified by a credentialing organization. Proof of the experience must be submitted along with a resume and personal statement.
Licensed DOs, DPMs, MDs, NPs, DVMs, PAs, PTs, OTs, PharmDs, RDs, and RNs can become CWS certified by completing the exam. They can also retake the exam two times within a five-year period without submitting the application fee again.
Once your application is approved, you will receive a notification via email and mail that will allow you to schedule the exam. Testing centers are available Monday through Friday and appointments are on a first-come, first-served basis.
CWS Exam Full Form
The Certified Wound Specialist (CWS) exam is a board certification that is offered by the American Board of Wound Management. It is a national credential that helps to elevate the standard of wound care and promotes education and research.
The CWS credential displays to patients, employers and peers a dedication to the highest standards in wound care. It also demonstrates master level knowledge and specialized expertise in wound care.
There are two paths to become a CWS: one is to have three years of wound care experience or to complete a wound care fellowship. Both paths require a full and unrestricted professional license.
A Certified Wound Specialist can work in the healthcare field, as a medical doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant. They can work in hospitals, clinics, community health centers or physician offices.
The course is designed to help you build advanced clinical knowledge and improve patient outcomes. During the program, you will receive real-world skin and wound management training that can be immediately implemented in your practice. You will learn how to assess and treat multiple types of wounds with a variety of treatment options.
CWS Exam Pattern
The Certified Wound Specialist Exam is a specialized certification test that measures the skills of the wound care practitioner. The exam focuses on several areas, including physiology, therapeutics, and the psychosocial issues that patients encounter after wound healing.
The CWS exam is a challenging exam that tests a candidate’s knowledge of the complexities of the wound. It also tests the ability to assess and treat wounds in a way that produces excellent patient outcomes.
You can choose to take the CWS exam online or in a classroom setting. Both options have their benefits, but the latter is more convenient.
After you’ve chosen the type of test you want to take, you’ll need to register for the exam. You can do this by going to the CWNP website and logging in.
Once you have logged in, select the date and time for your test. You’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details about your appointment.
Taking a simulated exam like the CWS practice test is a great way to gauge your performance and develop a better study strategy. This way, you can prepare for the real test and maximize your chances of success.
CWS Exam Questions and Answers
To become a CWS, you must hold an eligible professional license, gain at least three years of wound care experience or an approved fellowship, apply to ABWM, pass the exam, and maintain ongoing renewal and CE requirements. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
Different organizations issue these credentials, and the CWS focuses on ABWM’s multidisciplinary, scenario-based exam blueprint, while other wound-care certifications may emphasize different competencies or eligibility paths.
Physicians, podiatrists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, physical and occupational therapists, pharmacists, dietitians, and registered nurses frequently obtain the CWS credential to highlight advanced wound expertise. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
Salaries vary by role, setting, and region, but CWS-certified clinicians often command higher compensation because the credential signals advanced, in-demand wound care skills to employers. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
Many candidates complete formal wound-care programs, hospital-based wound fellowships, or structured wound management courses to build experience and knowledge before applying for CWS certification. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
CWCA®, CWS®, and CWSP® are all ABWM credentials, with CWS targeting experienced multidisciplinary clinicians and CWSP focusing on surgical wound specialists, while CWCA is oriented toward foundational wound-care skills. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
No, ABWM does not endorse particular review courses or books; instead it provides exam content outlines and practice exams, leaving candidates free to choose independent study resources. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
Yes, eligible clinicians outside the U.S. can sit for the CWS exam at Pearson VUE international test centers as long as they meet ABWM’s license and experience requirements. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
Most clinicians schedule several months of focused study, using the CWS content outline, practice exams, and targeted review to reinforce weaker domains while balancing ongoing clinical work. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
CWS certification can strengthen your résumé, support promotions or specialist roles, and give patients and colleagues added confidence in your ability to manage complex wounds. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}