Let’s be real—prepping for the BCBA certification exam is no joke. It’s one of the most intense milestones on your journey to becoming a behavior analyst. You’ve studied the concepts, logged your hours, and now it’s time to put your knowledge to the test.

Enter: the mock exam.

Mock exams are your best friend during this phase of prep. They replicate the pressure, format, and content of the real BCBA test, giving you the closest thing to a test-run before the actual exam day. 

Not only do they help you assess where you’re at, but they also boost your confidence—and let’s be honest, we could all use a little more of that before sitting for 160 tough multiple-choice questions.

Understanding the BCBA Exam and Why It’s a Big Deal

The BCBA exam is a major stepping stone in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. It’s administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) and tests whether you’ve truly got what it takes to become a certified behavior analyst. We’re talking about more than memorizing definitions—it’s about applying behavioral science in real-world situations.

Passing the BCBA exam not only proves your competence but also opens doors to higher-level roles, clinical autonomy, and the ability to supervise others. It’s a professional endorsement that says: “I know my stuff—and I know how to apply it ethically and effectively.”

BCBA Certification: A Quick Look at the Process

Before even getting to the exam, there’s a path you have to follow:

• Education: You’ll need a master’s degree in behavior analysis, education, or psychology.

• Coursework: Your classes must align with the BACB Sixth Edition Task List.

• Supervised Fieldwork: You’ll complete hands-on experience under a qualified BCBA.

• The Exam: Once all the prerequisites are met, you’re eligible to take the BCBA certification exam.

It’s a long road—but worth it. And mock exams can help guide your final steps.

Why Mock Exams Are Crucial to BCBA Exam Success

BCBA mock exams aren’t just extra practice—they’re a strategic part of your prep. They help you:

• Feel the pressure: Time constraints? Check. Nervous energy? Check. It’s all part of the simulation.

• Identify weak spots: You’ll quickly learn where you need to brush up.

• Improve test-taking strategies: From eliminating wrong answers to pacing yourself, mock exams help build smarter habits.

Whether you’re a last-minute crammer (no judgment) or a long-term planner, mock exams are one of the most powerful tools you can use.

Choosing the Most Accurate Mock Exams for the BCBA

Here’s the million-dollar question: Which mock exam feels the most like the real thing?

The best mock exams are based on the BACB Sixth Edition Task List. They mimic the question styles, difficulty level, and overall format of the real BCBA exam.

Top-Rated Mock Exam Providers

• Behavior Development Solutions (BDS)

• Pass the Big ABA Exam

Both offer high-quality, well-researched questions and detailed feedback—exactly what you need to prep effectively.

What Makes a Great BCBA Mock Exam?

Not all mock exams are created equal. Here’s what you want to look for:

Task List Alignment

Make sure the questions cover the domains in the BACB Sixth Edition Task List—like behavior-change procedures, measurement, and ethics.

Detailed Feedback

Good mock exams don’t just tell you what you got wrong—they explain why. This is how you learn from your mistakes and avoid repeating them.

Exam Simulation

The closer the mock exam feels to the real deal (format, length, timing), the more prepared you’ll be on test day.

Comparing Popular BCBA Mock Exams

Each of these options offers different benefits. Whether you’re on a budget or want the full immersive experience, there’s a mock exam to match your needs.

Top BCBA Mock Exams Worth Trying

Behavior Development Solutions (BDS)

BDS mock exams are designed to closely mirror the structure and content of the actual BCBA exam. You’ll get detailed feedback, task list-aligned questions, and explanations that actually teach you.

Many candidates swear by BDS for its comprehensive and realistic practice. If you’re looking to build confidence with high-quality prep, BDS is a strong choice.

Pass the Big ABA Exam

This one’s a fan favorite—and for good reason. Pass the Big ABA Exam focuses heavily on applied, scenario-style questions, which are great for testing how well you can think like a BCBA.

You’ll get in-depth feedback, rationales, and access to a full library of supplementary content. It’s not just a mock exam—it’s a whole system of learning that grows with you.

How to Use Mock Exams Like a Pro

Mock exams aren’t just for the end of your study plan. Used correctly, they can guide your prep from start to finish.

Build a Study Schedule Around Them

Block off time each week to take a mock exam and review it thoroughly. Use your results to guide the next week’s study focus.

Tip: alternate between full exams and targeted practice sessions to avoid burnout.

Learn From the Feedback

Don’t just glance at your score and move on. Dive into every wrong answer. Why did you choose it? What would’ve led you to the right one?

This is where the learning really happens.

Building Confidence and Readiness for Test Day

Success on the BCBA exam isn’t just about memorization—it’s about application. The more practice you get with real-style questions and conditions, the more confident you’ll feel walking into that exam room.

Tools & Techniques to Boost Retention

• Spaced repetition: Helps commit important concepts to long-term memory.
  
  
  

• Active recall: Test yourself instead of re-reading notes.
  
  
  

• Interleaving: Mix up topics during study sessions to improve flexibility and retention.
  
  
  

Pair these with regular mock exams, and you’ll be in great shape.

Why Self-Assessment Matters

Checking in on your progress regularly is key. Use your mock exam results as checkpoints to make sure you're moving in the right direction.

Pay attention to:

• Task list areas you’re consistently missing

• Question types that trip you up

• Your pacing and time management

Mock exams double as self-assessment tools—if you use them wisely, they’ll show you exactly where to go next in your prep.

The BCBA exam is a challenging hurdle—but one that’s absolutely conquerable with the right prep.

Mock exams are more than just practice—they’re your prep compass. They point out what you know, what you don’t, and how to improve. Whether you choose BDS, Pass the Big ABA, or another solid provider, make mock exams a central part of your study routine.

The more strategically you use them, the closer you'll get to that passing score—and the closer you’ll be to building a meaningful career in the field of ABA therapy.

FAQs

How many mock exams should I take before the BCBA exam?

Most experts recommend taking 3–5 full-length mock exams during your study process to build endurance, confidence, and familiarity with the test format.

Are BCBA mock exams similar to the real exam?

High-quality mock exams are designed to reflect the structure, difficulty, and timing of the actual BCBA exam, making them an essential prep tool.

When should I start taking mock exams during my BCBA prep?

Ideally, you should begin mock testing midway through your study plan—after you've covered key content areas—to identify weak spots and fine-tune your strategy.

Sources:

• https://behavioranalyststudy.com/bcba-exam-practice-questions/

• https://www.regiscollege.edu/blog/health-sciences/how-to-become-a-bcba

• https://www.pearsonvue.com/us/en/bacb.html

• https://www.appliedbehavioranalysisedu.org/bcba-certification/

• https://www.purdueglobal.edu/blog/psychology/after-bcba-exam/

• https://www.thechicagoschool.edu/insight/career-development/bcba-guide-bcba-certification-exam/