The Why, How, and Value of The NAMACB EXAM

WHAT IS THE EXAM?

The National Ayurvedic Medical Association Certification Board (NAMACB) exams are critical for recognition of Ayurvedic medicine in the United States, as they provide a baseline for standardization. The exams are based on the core competencies of what is expected in Ayurvedic curriculums in schools of Ayurveda in the United States.  

WHY TAKE THE EXAM?

  • Prepare for licensing (certification will be required once Ayurveda becomes a licensed profession in the U.S.)

  • Distinguish yourself as a credentialed professional.

  • Validate the profession of Ayurveda in the U.S.

AVAILABLE EXAMS

  • Ayurvedic Health Counselor 

  • Ayurvedic Practitioner 

  • Advanced Ayurvedic Practitioner

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

  • When you apply, you will pay a non-refundable $75 application fee, that goes towards the entire exam cost.

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO QUALIFY FOR THE EXAM?

Documentation of education that meets the NAMACB’s Educational Requirements and covers the Core Competencies. This documentation includes a record of the number of hours you spent in class, case studies, and a transcript that showcases your work as a student.

  • As of July 2025 applicants will need to provide documentation of completion of an AAC’s (Ayurvedic Accreditation Commission) program or a proof of a BAMS degree.

WHEN CAN I APPLY TO TAKE THE EXAM?

As soon as you graduate from your program, you may apply to take the exam. You are responsible for having your school upload your transcript as directed on the NAMACB Transcript Release Form (you may access the form via the application process). Once your application is approved, you will have six (6) months to complete the exam.

WHERE CAN I TAKE IT?

You may take the exam at one of the Onsite Proctor Centers that are located around the world. If taking the exam at an Onsite Center presents logistical challenges, you can take the exam at home via Online Proctoring if you comply with the proctoring technology and security requirements.

HOW LONG IS THE EXAM?

WHAT IS THE FORMAT OF THE EXAM?

Multiple choice 

WHEN SHOULD I TAKE THE EXAM?

  • As soon as possible after graduation, when all material is fresh in your mind. The NAMACB offers 20% off exam fees, when you apply within 30 days post-graduation, and register within 60 days.

  • Before you begin practicing. We recommend that you take your terminus exam for the level at which you will be ultimately practicing.

  • Take the AHC exam if you will be practicing as an AHC even if you will be enrolled in an AP program after completing your AHC program. 

  • Likewise, take the AP exam if you will be practicing as an AP even if you will be enrolled in an AAP program after completing your AP program.

WHAT STUDY RESOURCES ARE AVAILABLE?

WHAT HAPPENS IF I FAIL THE EXAM? 

  • You may take the exam again, in three months time.

  • You may take the exam as many times as you’d like within a three year period.

  • If you do not achieve certification within the three year period of your first attempt, you may not attempt certification again.

  • The retake price for the exams is a 40% discount from the original price.

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO QUALIFY FOR NAMA PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIP?

Passing the exam and paying membership dues.

IMPORTANT!  Your NAMACB certificate includes your NAMACB-certified status.  However, it is important to know that the NAMACB is a certification board and does not confer titles.  You are advised to check with your home state’s laws and regulations regarding the use of titles including that of  “Doctor”. 

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