NASM CPT Scoring Guide
How scores are calculated, what they mean, and how to reach your goal score.
Scoring Overview
NASM CPT is scored 200–800 on an IRT-scaled model. Passing is approximately 700. Results are provided immediately after the exam. The exam aligns to the NASM 7th edition textbook.
Score Scale
| Section | Duration | Max Score |
|---|---|---|
| NASM CPT | 120 min | 100 |
Section Breakdown
basic science
Basic Sciences — anatomy, biomechanics, nutrition.
Muscular systemSkeletal systemNervous systemCardiorespiratory systemExercise physiologyNutrition basics
assessment
Assessment — gathering client data and performing movement assessments.
Overhead squat assessmentPushing/pulling assessmentsCardiorespiratory assessmentsHealth historyPosture
program design
Program Design — using the OPT model.
Stabilization endurance (Phase 1)Strength endurance (Phase 2)Muscular development (Phase 3)Maximal strength (Phase 4)Power (Phase 5)
professional
Professional Development, Ethics, and Business.
Scope of practiceClient communicationBusiness marketing basicsLegal/liability
Key Facts
- Questions
- 120 (100 scored + 20 unscored)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Passing score
- 70% (scaled, ~700/1000)
- Cost
- $199–$499 (varies by study package)
- CEUs
- 20 CECs every 2 years
- Offered
- Year-round at Pearson VUE
Study Tips
- 1.The OPT model is the backbone of everything — know all 5 phases with reps, sets, tempo, and rest times.
- 2.Memorize the overhead squat compensation table: knee valgus/varus, forward lean, arms fall, low back arch.
- 3.Use NASM's official textbook (7th ed.) and supplement with NASM Edge app quiz questions.
- 4.Create flashcards for overactive/underactive muscle pairs — they show up constantly.
- 5.Watch YouTube breakdowns of the OPT model by trainers like Jonathan Ross or NASM's own videos.
- 6.Take the official NASM practice exam ($49 extra) — it closely mirrors the real test format.