Exam Comparison
ASWB BSW vs ASWB MSW
Comparing the ASWB Bachelor's Social Work Exam and the ASWB Master's Social Work Exam. Both fall under Behavioral Health. Both are covered by the Behavioral Health Exam Prep app.
The Bottom Line
The Bachelors exam licenses BSW-level generalist practice (case management, community services); the Masters exam requires an MSW and opens the path toward clinical work. If you are planning to get an MSW anyway, the Bachelors exam is usually a detour you can skip.
ASWB BSW vs ASWB MSW: At a Glance
| Detail | ASWB BSW | ASWB MSW |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | ASWB Bachelor's Social Work Exam | ASWB Master's Social Work Exam |
| Governing Body | ASWB | ASWB |
| Number of Questions | 170 | 170 |
| Time Limit | 4 hours | 4 hours |
| Passing Score | Scaled (approx. 97-106, varies by state) | Scaled (approx. 101, varies by state) |
| Exam Fee | $260 USD | $260 USD |
| Category | Behavioral Health | Behavioral Health |
| C3RT App | Behavioral Health Exam Prep | Behavioral Health Exam Prep |
Content Areas Compared
ASWB BSW Domains
- Human Development, Diversity and Behavior in the Environment(28%)
- Assessment and Intervention Planning(24%)
- Interventions with Clients/Client Systems(35%)
- Professional Relationships, Values, and Ethics(13%)
ASWB MSW Domains
- Human Development, Diversity and Behavior in the Environment(24%)
- Assessment and Intervention Planning(26%)
- Interventions with Clients/Client Systems(36%)
- Professional Relationships, Values, and Ethics(14%)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ASWB BSW and ASWB MSW?
The ASWB Bachelors exam is for graduates of accredited BSW programs and supports bachelor’s-level licensure focused on generalist practice, case management, intake, community resources. The Masters exam requires a completed MSW and covers more advanced practice content, including assessment and intervention at greater depth. The credential ceilings differ sharply: bachelor’s-level licensure never leads to independent clinical practice, while the Masters exam is the first step on the LCSW track.
Can I take both the ASWB BSW and the ASWB MSW?
You can, but few people need to. The Masters license supersedes bachelor’s-level licensure in scope everywhere. The realistic reason to hold both is a multi-year gap between degrees where you practiced at the BSW level first. Nobody hiring at the MSW level asks for the Bachelors credential.
Which should I take first, ASWB BSW or ASWB MSW?
Take the exam that matches the degree you will actually practice with. If you are working between your BSW and a planned MSW, the Bachelors exam can license you for that gap. If you are heading straight into an MSW program, skip the Bachelors exam entirely, nothing in the Masters pathway requires it.
Does C3RT cover both the ASWB BSW and the ASWB MSW?
Yes. Both the ASWB BSW and ASWB MSW are covered in the Behavioral Health Exam Prep app for iOS and Mac.
The ASWB Bachelor's Social Work Exam (ASWB BSW) is administered by ASWB. The ASWB Master's Social Work Exam (ASWB MSW) is administered by ASWB. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.