CMGT-BC Certification: Overview and FAQ

The Case Management Nurse – Board Certified (CMGT-BC) certification is a professional credential for nurses who demonstrate advanced expertise in coordinating patient care through complex healthcare systems, bridging gaps between providers, patients, and resources. Earning this certification places you among the leaders and experts in your specialty, enhancing your credibility, influence, and career opportunities within the field.

Interested in learning the steps to get certified? Whether you’re an experienced case manager or a new nurse planning your career trajectory, this article breaks down everything you need to know to get this prestigious credential.

CMGT-BC Certification: Snapshot

• Eligibility: You must hold an active RN license, have at least 2 years of full-time nursing experience, and acquire a minimum of 2,000 hours of case management practice within the past 3 years.
• Preparation: Study the test content outline, certification handbook, and reference materials, and actively practice answering sample questions to reinforce your knowledge.
• Application process: Set up an online account, complete the application for initial certification, upload all required documents, and wait for your submission to be reviewed and approved.
• Exam: Your test will have 150 questions, and you’ll have 3 hours to answer them.
• Cost: The exam fee is $395.
• Renewal: You’ll need to renew your credential every 5 years.

What Is a CMGT Certification?

CMGT-BC is a professional credential that’s awarded to nurse case managers who meet specific eligibility criteria and pass a specialized exam administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), the credentialing body of the American Nurses Association (ANA).

The certification journey is simple in steps but rigorous in practice. First, you’ll need to meet the eligibility requirements, then study thoroughly, and finally pass the certification exam. Here’s a glimpse into the topics the test covers:

CMGT Nursing Certification Requirements

Wondering what’s required to become a certified nursing case manager? Here’s a step-by-step guide to earning your credential.

1. Meet Eligibility Requirements

Before you start the certification process, make sure you meet the essential eligibility criteria. Here’s what you’ll need to qualify:

• Hold an active RN license in the U.S. or its territories, or a legally recognized international equivalent.
• Have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or higher degree.
• Acquire at least 2 years of full-time RN experience.
• Accumulate a minimum of 2,000 practice hours of clinical practice in nursing case management within the past 3 years.
• Complete a minimum of 30 continuing education hours in nursing case management within the past 3 years.

2. Prepare for the Exam

Now it’s time to get exam-ready. Start by reviewing the official content outline developed by the ANCC — think of it as your CMBT-BC study guide. This resource maps out every topic you’ll be tested on.

Additional study resources are available to support your preparation efforts:

• ANCC certification handbook
• Test reference list
• Sample test questions and answers
• Role delineation study

Seeking a well-rounded study resource? The ANCC offers different preparation packages to support you in getting exam-ready:

• Nursing Case Management Review and Resource Manual book
• CMGBT-BC exam questions (QBank)

Interested in a CMBGT-BC practice test? While the ANCC provides readiness tests for many certification exams, a case management version is not currently available. Keep an eye on the ANCC website for future release announcements.

Wondering how much time you should set aside to study? The ANCC advises to begin preparing approximately six months before you plan to take the exam.

3. Register for the Exam

Your next step is to create an ANCC account, fill out the application form, and upload your supporting documents, such as academic transcripts and certificates of completion of continuing education hours. Once your application is reviewed and approved, you’ll receive an authorization to test notice — your ticket to scheduling your exam. From there, you’ll have 120 days to arrange your exam appointment and take the test with Prometric.

4. Pay the Exam Fee

The certification exam costs $395, though you may spend more if you choose to invest in additional preparation materials, such as review courses or books. ANA members are eligible for a discounted rate.

5. Pass the Certification Exam

With your exam registration finalized, it’s time to focus on the test itself. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect on test day:

• Your test will last 3 hours.
• Your test will include 150 questions (125 scored and 25 pretest items).
• You’ll need to achieve a minimum scaled score of 350 out of 500 to pass.

6. Maintain the Certification

Your ANCC certification remains valid for five years. To maintain it, you’ll need to complete 75 continuing education contact hours from an approved provider and meet at least one of the eight renewal options:

• Complete additional continuing education hours specific to your specialty.
• Earn academic credits in a subject relevant to your nursing specialty.
• Give presentations that showcase your specialty expertise.
• Lead or participate in research, publication, quality improvement, or evidence-based projects in your specialty.
• Mentor or precept other nurses.
• Volunteer with healthcare organizations where your specialty expertise is required.
• Accumulate hands-on practice hours in your specialty.
• Retake the certification exam.

The renewal fee is $350 for nonmembers and $250 for ANA members.

FAQ: ANCC Certification in Case Management Nursing

CMGT-BC vs. CCM: What’s the difference?

The Certified Case Manager (CCM) credential, offered by the Commission for Case Manager Certification (CCMC), takes a broad, interdisciplinary approach and is available to various licensed professionals — not just nurses. In contrast, the ANCC case management certification is specifically designed for nursing practice.

How hard is the exam?

The difficulty of the exam depends on how well you prepare, your existing knowledge of topics relevant to case management, and your test-taking skills. The 65% pass rate shows that while the exam is challenging, most candidates pass on their first attempt.

What do I do if I fail the exam?

If your first attempt isn’t successful, you can retake the exam after a 60-day waiting period and up to three times in a year. Use your score report to see exactly which areas need more focus — this is your roadmap to passing on the next try.

How do I verify my credentials?

You can verify your certification through the ANCC. Each individual is entitled to one free verification each renewal cycle; additional requests cost $40. Organizations can request verification for $50. Most verifications are completed within seven business days.

What is a typical salary for certified nurse case managers?

The average annual salary for registered nurses in the U.S., including those specializing in case management, is $98,430. Earning a professional certification can boost your earning potential by giving you leverage in salary negotiations.

Related Certifications

Want to add more certifications to your nurse case manager resume? Check out these options:

• Ambulatory Care Nursing Certification (AMB-BC)
• Certified Clinical Documentation Specialist (CCDS)
• Certified Nurse Educator (CNE)
• Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML)
• Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ)
• Nurse Coach Board Certified (NC-BC)
• Legal Nurse Consultant Certification (LNCC)

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