NBSTSA will announce the recipients of the 2026 NBSTSA Student Academic Merit Award in May 2026.
<a class="btn-primary" href="https://www.nbstsa.org/2026-merit-award-application" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Learn More</a>

On Test Day

To enter the test center, you must present two forms of valid ID, including:<ul><li>Primary ID (must include photo):<ul><li>Driver’s license,</li><li>State-issued ID,</li><li>Passport, Military ID</li></ul></li><li>Secondary ID (with signature):<ul><li>Social Security card,</li><li>Student ID,</li><li>Employee ID</li></ul></li></ul>⚠ Important: Both IDs must match the name on your Authorization to Test letter and be current (not expired). No temporary IDs accepted.&nbsp;**If proper ID is not provided, you will be denied entry and forfeit your exam fee.**&nbsp;

Identification Requirements 

<ul><li>After identity verification, you'll be directed to a testing station.</li><li>You'll enter your Social Security or ID number and take a photo, which will display during your exam and appear on your score report.</li><li>Before starting, you'll have the option to complete a short computer practice session (not timed or scored).</li><li>Once you're ready, you may begin the 4-hour timed exam.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Check-In & Test Setup 

<ul><li>The exam center is monitored by audio and video for security.</li><li>All exam content is copyrighted by NBSTSA. Sharing or reproducing questions in any form is illegal and may result in civil or criminal penalties.</li><li>Candidates may not discuss or remove any exam content from the testing site.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Examination Security 

<ul><li>Not Allowed: Books, notes, bags, personal electronics, or valuables.</li><li>Allowed: Only keys and wallets may enter the testing room. NBSTSA/PSI is not responsible for items left in the reception area.</li><li>Phones &amp; Devices: Strictly prohibited — use will result in dismissal.</li><li>Scratch Paper: Provided at check-in. You must return it after testing to receive your score report. If you need a new sheet, exchange the used one with the proctor.</li><li>No Content Questions: You may not ask about exam content during the test.</li><li>Breaks: Allowed anytime, but break time does not extend your exam time. You may not return to previously answered questions after a break. You also cannot leave the building during a break.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Testing Center Rules 

Length: 4 hours<ul><li>Format: 175 multiple-choice questions<ul><li>150 scored </li><li>25 unscored pretest items (randomly placed)</li></ul></li></ul>

Exam Details

<ul><li>On-Campus Testing (WBT): Scores are released once graduation requirements are complete and your school authorizes the release.</li><li>PSI Testing Centers (Current Students): Score reports are emailed (via secure link) within 48 business hours, after PSI transfers your results and your file is complete.</li><li>Post-Graduate Testing (45+ Days After Graduation): If you submitted your own transcripts, you may receive your score report immediately at the test center.</li></ul>

On Test Day

Come prepared to your CST® or CSFA® Exam with these important rules and requirements