*Updated 2/16/2024*
Tips for Passing the 2024 MBLEx
January 1st, 2024 is a new year with fresh beginnings and new goals.
If you are graduating from massage school, moving to a state that requires you to take a licensing exam, or jumping back into the massage profession after a hiatus – you might find yourself in the position of taking the 2024 MBLEx (Remember, the NCETMB is no longer an option).
If passing the 2024 MBLEx and getting licensed are part of your goals for the year, I want to help you get there. To do that, I think you need to know a little more about the newest changes to exam content, pass rates, and fee changes. Knowing about the MBLEx is almost as important as knowing what you may be tested on during the MBLEx. Don’t worry, we will talk about study guides, practice exams and where to find those at the end.
Why it is important to know about exam changes.
Massage Exam Academy opened its virtual doors in 2011 to help students pass the MBLEx. Since then, I have witnessed many changes to the MBLEx. Back in 2014, the FSMTB implemented a few changes to the MBLEx. The FSMTB annual report showed that pass rates dropped. Many test takers were not prepared for these changes. Massage schools were also not prepared to help students adjust to the new format and changes. It is hard to believe that years later, I still see students that are not provided with the updated information about the MBLEx.
Each October, the FSMTB puts out its annual report with pass rates and upcoming changes to the exam. Here are a few things from the 2022 and prior reports that will help you prepare for the 2024 MBLEx.
What is the current MBLEx pass rate?
Again, I think it is important to look at the history of the exam to get an idea about pass rates.
Pass rates from July 2019 through June 2020 are based on 22,148 MBLEx attempts according to the latest FSMTB report. Here is a breakdown of the numbers (which are nearly identical to the previous year’s report).
- First-time test-taker pass rate was 73.4%
- Repeat attempt pass rate was 40.0%
- Overall pass rate was slightly lower at 67.0%
This means almost 33% of test-takers fail their MBLEx in that time frame. So why did I not update the numbers from 2020 and 2021? The report did not show how many tests were given, or completely breakdown the pass rates. Here is what it said under the section where the report talked about the impact COVID had on massage education and pass rates.
“By November 2020 the pass rate was beginning to drop, perhaps as a result of the classroom adjustments in learning methods and reduced or modified clinic hours due to COVID-19 precautions. December 2020 proved to be an anomaly with the pass rate dropping from a high of 72% down to 60% for first-time test takers. This one-month drop contributed to bringing the overall pass rate down to 69%. By June 2021 the pass rate was hovering back at 72%.”
When the 2022 MBLEx report is now out. The FSMTB did not release MBLEx pass rate numbers again. It said the there have been “ebbs and flows” in the pass rates for the 13,278 candidates that took their exam between July of 2021 and June of 2022. Only 59% of candidates passed their exam in November 2021. However, in May and June of 2022, pass rates were back at 73%.
For the 2023 report, the MBLEx is back up to over 17,000 testing attempts and a 72% first-time pass rate.
Now, let’s look at the recent changes to the MBLEx so you can prepare and PASS your exam.
Recent MBLEx Changes You Should Know About
Multiple Choice Format Change
The 2022 report states that test-takers began seeing multiple choice questions (or MCQs) with three possible choices instead of four. The report goes on to state that the number of 3 option questions may increase in the future 2024 MBLEx and beyond.
MBLEx Fee Increase
In April of 2019, the FSMTB announced one of its most controversial changes. For thirteen years, the fee to take the MBLEx remained unchanged at $195 per attempt. On April 1st, 2020 the NEW fee for the MBLEx was scheduled to change to $265 per attempt. However, with the COVID-19 pandemic, the FSMTB announced the fee would remain $195 until October 1st, 2020. If you are taking the MBLEx in 2024, the fee will be $265 per attempt.
Bonus: Learn exactly WHAT and HOW to study for your exam with my free MBLEx Starter Pack
COVID-19, Coronavirus, and Testing Centers
Wonder if testing has changed, or how the pandemic may affect your new career in massage therapy? I dedicated a whole other article to just those topics. You can read that here – Taking the MBLEx During the COVID-19 Pandemic.
2018/2019 MBLEx Changes
In 2018, the FSMTB announced a change in content to the MBLEx exam. Below are the content changes that took place AFTER July 1st, 2018 and will remain for the time being.
Massage history is history.
The section entitled Overview of Massage/Bodywork Modalities, History and Culture will no longer be a separate section.
Overview of Massage/Bodywork Modalities will be reassigned as a subcategory under the section entitled Benefits and Physiological Effects of Techniques that Manipulate Soft Tissue AND History and Culture subcategories will no longer be tested. That means you should not have to know who is credited with creating each modality in the year 1846 or who wrote the Book of Massage, but you should still know about the various types of bodywork modalities for the exam.
All subjects are not created equally.
The distribution of topics tested will be as follows:
Anatomy & Physiology changed from 12% to 11%.
Kinesiology changed from 11% to 12%.
Pathology, Contraindications, Areas of Caution, Special Population changed from 13% to 14%.
Benefits and Physiological Effects of Techniques that Manipulate Soft Tissue changed from 14% to 15%.
Client Assessment Reassessment & Treatment Planning remained unchanged at 17%.
Ethics, Boundaries, Laws and Regulations changed from 15% to 16%.
Guidelines for Professional Practice changed from 13% to 15%.
I have updated our study guide, practice tests, and simulations on Massage Exam Academy to prepare for this change.
2017 MBLEx Changes
There are a few other changes you should be aware of from 2017. I know this may seem outdated for some of you, but there are many people that are not aware of these changes.
New MBLEx educational requirement.
The first change the FSMTB has posted for 2017 did not concern content on the actual exam. Previously, the FSMTB did not have educational requirements for MBLEx applicants. The FSMTB website now states:
“Effective July 1, 2017, candidates seeking access to the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) will be required to substantiate enrollment in or having received their education from a massage therapy educational program that is approved or recognized by the state board or agency authorized to regulate massage therapy in the state in which the school is located. In the event the massage therapy board/agency does not approve or recognize education programs, approval or recognition from the relevant state department of education or like agency, in the state which the school is located, shall apply. In the event of a conflict between the state board/agency and department of education, the approval or recognition of the massage therapy board/agency shall prevail.”
No more recommended reading lists.
Next, the second change is that the FSMTB will no longer provide a recommended/reference reading list for the MBLEx content. This means the exam content can come from multiple texts and sources. Truthfully, I think it always did. The prior exam content was not explicitly bound to just the FSMTB’s recommended reading list.
Pass/Fail: Changes to the MBLEx passing score.
Lastly, there is one more change I want you to be aware of before your exam. I still get emails asking, “What is the MBLEx passing score?” There is no longer a numeric score given at the end of the exam, such as 630. The exam now is PASS/FAIL. The final score report will show pass/fail and how the candidate performed in each of the exam content areas (good, borderline, or poor). You can learn more about my thoughts on this here.
How can you prepare for the 2024 MBLEX?
Now that we are aware of all the recent changes, it is time to move forward with your MBLEx preparation.
Give yourself time to study and prepare.
This is not a high school anatomy exam. This is a professional licensing exam. Do not start studying a couple of days, or two weeks, before your scheduled date. Before you schedule your exam, come up with a strategy and study schedule.
Give yourself enough time to study each of the seven areas you will be tested on, and time for a general review right before the exam.
Review your texts.
Even though there is no longer a FSMTB recommended reading list, these texts will still be very helpful as you prepare. You will also use them as references in your massage practice. Dust them off if necessary, and get a feel for how much information you have retained and what you need to relearn.
Develop your critical and clinical thinking skills.
This seems to be one of the most frequent struggles I hear from people that failed the MBLEx. People that fail often do not prepare for questions that test clinical reasoning skills.
Massage therapists are health care professionals, so be prepared for the clinical reasoning-type questions every other healthcare professional is tested on during their boards.
You will probably not see a lot of questions like this: Which muscle or muscles adduct the arm?
Now, you are more likely to encounter some questions involving clinical assessment with a dash of kinesiology. Such as:
At the advice of her medical doctor, A 16-year-old girl comes in after experiencing an arm injury from a fall at horseback riding lessons a few weeks ago. A range of motion examination indicates that she cannot adduct her arm without pain. Which of the following muscle(s) is likely involved with this adduction pain and dysfunction?
A. Teres minor and Pectoralis minor
B. Teres major
C. Latissimus dorsi and Teres major
D. Infraspinatus and Deltoid
The correct answer is: C
Both Latissimus dorsi and Teres major adduct the arm.
Review multiple choice strategy.
In the above question, option B was also true. But, was it the most true? I have a separate article on helping you work through the multiple choice structure of the MBLEx.
Take practice quizzes and exam simulations.
Exam simulators are the best way to reduce exam anxiety (a very real and common problem. Exam simulations allow you to get a feel for the length and pace of the exam. While exam simulators do not offer the exact questions that are on the MBLEx, they remove doubt about how quickly you should be answering questions as you answer similar questions.
Practice quizzes are also a great way to target weak spots in your topical knowledge. If you’re scoring very well in Anatomy, Physiology and Kinesiology, but struggling in Client Assessment, it only makes sense to focus your efforts on that subject. Our “Plan to Pass” is designed to help you determine your weakest spots and improve comprehension and quiz scores in that area.
Start Preparing for the 2024 MBLEx
Make 2024 your year! If you would like to learn more about the Massage Exam Academy, which includes MBLEx simulations and practice quizzes, you can do that here. My hope and goal at Massage Exam Academy is that taking the 2024 MBLEx leads to positive life and career changes for you.
3 times I have gone and taken the MBLEX, and each time I have failed. I graduated back in June 2023 and the questions I have received from the MBLEX either don’t pertain to my scope of practice or were nothing that I learned in school. Needless too say I’m very frustrated and disappointed at this point, especially since I’ve been shelling out almost $300 to take this test each time. At this point I very much believe this is just a money grab, and after speaking to many people in the massage field and cosmetology field (which I found out is under the same MBLEX guide and exam board) they feel the same way as me. When I first took the test I actually did very well from what my fail sheet told me briefly, so I have no idea if I was one point off or not. I can’t afford to constantly shell out money for this test. I know I am a good therapist from what my school clientele have told me, and find it rather annoying that this test isn’t a hands on test. FSMTB needs to restructure this test. I feel as if it’s designed to set people up for failure, and from research I have seen passing percentages drop quite dramatically from what it used to be when it was a number score test that actually told you what answers you got wrong, so that way people could actually learn from their mistakes and pass. How are we supposed to pass a text with no actual questions from the MBLEX and learn for our mistakes?
Hi Keagan!
Thanks for sharing your experience. I want to take a minute to address a few things for other people reading this. I know many people feel the same way as you.
I see people pass the MBLEx every day after failing. One of the things we focus on here at Massage Exam Academy is changing study habits that are not working and focusing on the weaker subjects in order to help people pass. Sometimes we do recognize the study mistakes we are making.
Also, this is a good opportunity to remind some people that there are schools out there that are not properly preparing graduates for their exam. Talk to your school about their pass rates and talk to former students about their experience with preparing for the exam before you attend the school.
A practical exam is great, but also testing people on basic of anatomy, pathology, and kinesiology are good for our profession and the public.
One last thing, I am not sure who told you about the MBLEx and cosmetology exam (NIC) being under the same company, but I have heard nothing about that. I’m doubting that is correct.
Hey people!!!!!
Good mood and good luck to everyone!!!!!
I graduated massage therapy school in May 2023 and took my test in November 2023. I failed the first time so I took a couple months off to study and took it again today and I failed the second time. I don’t understand what I’m doing wrong because I have studied and dedicated more time this time around than the first. I guess my question is this; is it worth it to try again because at this point, I don’t think passing is in the cards for me.
Hi Hannah! Sorry to hear about your exam. I know it can be frustrating after all of the time, money and effort you have put into a career you cannot practice yet. Have you read this article yet? https://www.massageexamacademy.com/so-you-failed-the-mblex/ Sometimes it helps people get started after failing. In my program, we focus on the weakest subject areas for each person. Often people avoid the subjects they struggle with. There is also other tips in that article that may resonate with you. I would not give up hope if massage is something you want to do.
I took the MBLeX 2 years and failed. It broke my heart and I gave up. I have a learning disability that causes testing anxiety so I’m hesitant to retake the test. Why are there no accommodations for people with learning disabilities??? And how am I supposed to pass the test if I don’t know what I got wrong so I can study better? I’m good at massage and my clients will only care if I know what I’m doing, not what I scored on the MBLeX. But I can’t practice until I prove to the state I can pass a “written” test that should be a hands-on test.
Hi Angela!
If you have a documented learning disability there are accommodations you can apply for with the FSMTB. https://www.fsmtb.org/media/2838/ada-hanbook-final-2023.pdf
hi ivy, i graduated in 2018, took the mblex 2 times and failed it. took a break from it and now im ready to try again. as im studying, im seeing some good test scores and some not so good… i think my main thing is the timer in the corner and all the answers being correct, you just have to pick what sounds best? i wish the test was 3 wrong answers and 1 correct. not 4 correct, having to pick what sounds the best? im surprised i still know so much, ive shocked myself studying! i think im gonna take it 6 months from now to be sure im very well prepared… the past 2 times i gave myself a few weeks, to a month and i clearly wasnt ready… any tips? my email is sammi.holland3@gmail.com
Hey do you know any location spots in New Jersey I can take the test
I would check out Pearson locations here – https://home.pearsonvue.com/About/Locations.aspx
Question I went to school and graduated in July 31 2014 at the Cortiva school for massage and i never took the test what do I have to do to be able to take the test now.
1. Make sure the hours for licensure in your state have not increased (I am not aware of any that have.).
2. Apply to the FSMTB to take the MBLEx.
3. Start to study.
I have been looking for a refresher course.i can’t seem to find anything in my area. Is there a website you would recommend?
Yes. This website ;). Many have used Massage Exam Academy’s program as a refresher course.
since there is the covid 19 going on are the exam room still open? i want to know before i register
Some centers are open now. Contact your local Pearson testing center to see if it is now open.
hello, was wondering when is the exact date for the exam.
Exams are given on a daily basis. A person can schedule their own date with Pearson. If you fail, you must wait 30 days to retest.
Only two states have specific exam dates (Hawaii and New York), but they have their own exams and do not use the MBLEx.
I live in Florida and completed my massage school program hours in June 2018. Due to a demanding work schedule I was not able to find time to study for MBLEX exam until now.
I was wondering when do I have to take the MBLEX exam by? I’m worried I will have to retake the massage school program hours if I dont take the Mblex test within a certain timeframe, like within 12 months?
Florida does not (at this time) have a time limit for taking the MBLEx. I am not actually aware of any state that would make you retake your education. I am also only aware of one state that would make you retake your exam if you do not apply within a 2 year period after passing it (Louisiana).
However, I do not recommend waiting for 5 years. Laws can change. For example, Florida requires 500 hours and theoretically could change to 1000 hours. I don’t see it happening soon at all, but it could.
Hey ivy ! I’ve officially taken my mblex twice now as I just left the testing room and I failed. I did way better this second time than I did the first which is actually great compared to the amount of time I didn’t put in which I only studied for two weeks. Not bragging but my nerves use to get to me. I live close to Dallas, Texas . But I heard a rumor about only being able to take the test 3 times ?
Which I was needing to know is that true or not ? Because I’ve seen these comments and some people have taken it 4 ? So I needed to be sure . Could you help ?
Some states have limits, but very few. I have never heard of Texas being one of them. But, just to be sure, I would call the board office and ask. The old NCETMB had a limit that you had to go back for 100 hours after failing 3 times and some people still pass around that outdated information.
Today is my 3rd times failed the MBLEX test, I study a lot purchased a study guide book. And I also have a online test.com MBLEX study guide. I’m very frustrated and disappointed I don’t How to pass the test. It’s very hard. I only see a few question in my study guide. Some of the questions is not in the book.. I can’t believe this.. I don’t know if I can pass the test to my 4th times.. I have to pay another $200.00
After helping many people that have failed multiple times, I can say that it is quite possible you are not studying correctly. Many programs just give you the information. What they don’t tell you is how to study. That includes knowing how to break down a question (because questions on study programs will not be on your exam!). You need to learn the information to apply to any question. Our plan to pass also helps you find your weakest area(s) and focus on those first. Too many people ignore their weak areas and that also keeps them from passing. Addressing these two problems would be my two suggestions.
I am a physical therapist assistant, personal trainer, yoga therapist and have a BS in Kibesiology. Could I be eligible to take the rest and become a liscenced massage therapist? I live in Kansas where as of now you do not have to be liscenced but wanted to be proactive. Thank you.
Good question. I would contact the FSMTB about that. Their website does say “massage therapy school education”, but I think it is still worth asking since you often have some massage training as a PTA and with your Kinesio degree.
I took my test sept.15,2018 the test was confusing nothing ive study was noticeable i was very disappointed in the confusing wording on this test upon all the money we have to pay back
Maybe it is time to try other study resources. Some people are just not prepared for the exam and use outdated resources. I promise our program is up to date for all of the changes and will have practice questions that will challenge you before your next attempt. http://www.massageexamacademy.com
Good morning my name is Ana Laura and yesterday was the third time I took the test and did not pass it, since I come from New Jersey and now I am in florida, it is very frustrating since you study and end up wondering about everything except what you studied , for me the mblex is a fraud that take the opportunity to steal money from people because every time you have to pay nothing more or anything less than $ 200 as if it, study different types of material and nothing helps to pass it! it’s just not fair
Hi Ana,
Here is a post on failing the MBLEx, how to make a new plan, and maybe change your perspective ;).
https://www.massageexamacademy.com/so-you-failed-the-mblex/
I know in the past you needed a score of 630 or better. That meant you could fail a couple of sections and still pass. Our you still able to be below average in a couple sections and pass or do you have to be average or above in all sections.
Hello Ivy, I haven’t made the test yet. My school will be finished by mid August. And I design to make the test right the way of the end of August. I heard some information that said MBLEx test of 2018 did change. So I want to ask you that was changed yet. If so your program is already updated for 2018 testing? I’m really taking serious about this test. And I hope your program will help me up. Me and friends have decided to buy the program but We are curious about the changing of MBLEx test on 2018. Thank you so much.
Yes, my program has been updated to reflect all the changes in this post for 2018. I updated it long before the July 1st changes. Hope this helps!
So there will be nothing on the test about massage history such as who created what modality and when?
Hi that Mblex test is so hard anything that I study in school was on the test I don’t even know what to study Iam trying to take my again for second time now in October any suggestions please I need help
I suggest enrolling in our program here on Massage Exam Academy. A one-month subscription should help you pinpoint your weak spots, improve those areas, and increase confidence going into your next exam attempt.
Hi, I graduated in 2012 at a Technical school that recently closed last year. I have an Associate’s Degree in Massage Therapy and in Business. I had first taken the NCETM Exam right after I graduated. Failed, then Mblex came out. I have taken that exam 5 times. Came close, one time 10 pints off. But last year, when I took it. They don’t show you your score anymore. I have had turtors, I have the FSMTB practice book, I have books from school, books I have ordered that I was recommended. I use flashcards, I have even went to a Medical Massage School & they let me sit in on there classes with the students to refresh my mind of all the material. Again failed.
I want to know if I am allowed to take the exam? even failing 5 times. I thought they had a rule you would haft to go back to school? I will not give up until I am in this career. I can’t stand knowing I have my degree & I’m 6 years out of school & have no experience in this field. Can you help me?
Hi Jessica,
The FSMTB does require schools to be approved in some fashion, but maybe if it was previously approved, you should be able to take the exam. The FSMTB does not have a limit on how many times you can take it, but attempts must be 30 days apart.
The only other thing I would consider is if your state has a limit. Most do not, but just a few do. You can call your state board office and ask.
After that, I would recommend getting started with my prep program on this website. It is the only way I can assess where you are and your progress. I have had people pass after many attempts and anywhere from before graduation to 30+ years out of school. I know many people that have used several books and other online programs, but felt this one was the one that helped them finally pass. Let me know if you have any questions.
how can i take your class? i have been out of school for nearly 9 yrs and i have never taken this test before because when i graduated in ’09 this test was not required for city license. Also I have been in the field for the past 6yrs
You can sign up anytime on http://www.massageexamacademy.com for a subscription to my study materials.
Also, this may help: https://www.massageexamacademy.com/mblex-years-after-school/
Good day Ms Ivy I was currently under the thought of the following went to school for Massage Therapy in 2009 Morrow Ga, I graduated and had received my diploma. My class was the last graduating class before they took out the M.T program, I never went to take my mblex or national after my graduation ceremony, however my (Question) is this.. Can I still take my Mblex scince I did graduate and have my transcripts in my possession, in this year for 2018. Thanks so much for your help from Clint
Hi Clint,
I do not see any reason you cannot take the MBLEx at this time. I am not aware of any rule changes in GA since 2009 that would affect your ability to get a license there either, but I always think it is best to check with the state board before applying.
I’m very upset because I have taken the mblex exam three times and have failed. I. Are you taking it for my fourth time on June 14, 2018 I have studied for 2 to 3 hours a day for three months at a time. Bought the book that the and blacks or the FSTMB cells and no luck I also have two or three other books that I have followed and I am studying and ATM be at I believe it is and I’m still struggling
Hi there!! I graduated from massage therapy school in 2007 and I took the old test. I did not pass for a couple of points and felt super frustrated. I believe Florida has a limit on how many times you test and I would like to test again. Is that possible! If so, what is the best study book I could purchase?
Thank you,
Paulina Hood
Hi Paulina,
There is nothing in the law and rules in FL about an exam limit currently. The only limit is that you can only test every 30 days for the MBLEx. I see no reason you cannot test again. You will need to complete the fingerprint requirement and likely complete 10 hour laws and rules (available on our other website -www.advancedmassagetechniques.com) since the requirement back then was 4 hours (check your transcript). All of our study packages on Massage Exam Academy are online. If you are looking for a book, I find most study guides (printed) to have outdated information, so I would suggest a full massage textbook if you need a hard copy option (Salvo, Fritz, Mosby’s).
I failed the mblex and because I didnt finish the test. The computer didn’t even print out a diagnostic after the test it just said I didn’t finish in the allotted time. My test was at 4:30 i got there 30 mins early but didn’t start testing until after 4:30. I did not see a timer nor was I warned on my computer that the test was almost over. My computer said time was up. When I looked at the time it said 6:10. I a had about 20 more mins to finish. I think that my computer may have glitch but I know for a fact that I still had time left to finish. I spoke to the lady up front she said she could not help me. I don’t know what to do. I am pretty sure I would have passed if the computer had not shutoff. I will call the board and see if I can take it again because i was not warned about the time limit on the computer. Do you think they will let me take it again?
I would contact the FSMTB about this issue. There should be a way Pearson can verify the time you were in the room.
Hello , ivy , I have the same problem above , I finished the exam but it said I didn’t finish on time ,so can you help me out,?
Did you contact the FSMTB? They should have a record of your exam attempt.
Hello Ivy
I haven’t been in school since 2005 and took the past 8 years off to be a stay at home mom. I am more then ready to go back. I’ve taken the MBLEX 2 times now and failed. I was just under what I need to pass both times. The second time I believe it was more names of authors and tax prep / insurance questions that really got me. Would your program be able to help me or has it been too long for me. I don’t think I can handle another fail. Should I do the one month or 3 month? Finacily time is of the essence , I need to start making money again and it’s already taken me so long with no results .
Thank you
Sara
MANY of the people that use this site are people that went to school long ago. You certainly are not alone. I also see people in your situation pass often. Most that do really well have been practicing and are moving and need to take an exam. I suggest one month to them. Others, like yourself, most likely need three months. Remember, massage school is usually 6 months. So reviewing information you have learned previously can certainly be done in 3 months with dedicated practice.
Hi Ivy,
Living in Ohio students get 3 chances to take the Mblex. I graduated massage school in July 2017 my score was 618. I went back again for the second time in November really confident read each question and took my time. I felt great about the test left out of the testing area and i was really frustrated and angry. My score was extremely low! At this point in time i don’t know what to do. I feel like I’m right on the edge i also have one shot. What do you recommend ? I really do not want to throw money down the drain that i have to play back and go back to school to be deeper in debt. i’m furious!
Hi Deja,
It is a stressful situation you are in. What have you used to prepare for the MBLEx (prep programs)? Does your school have any prep classes you can attend, or anyone willing to tutor you? Where did you attend school?
Hi, my license expired between 2010 and 2012. I am figuring I will have to take the mblex to get it back? If that’s the case, how should I go about preparing and what should I expect ?
Hi Leanne,
It is VERY rare to find that someone needs to retake an exam after passing it previously. Where are you trying to get a license? You may just need to apply and pay the fees get it back.
My License expired in 2010 and I did not test to get my license. So now I have to test right? My school closed and now I have paid all the fees to test.
Most likely. A board-approved exam is usually a requirement to get a license in most states. Where are you located?
Hello my license expired in 2012 in Illinois. I am in the process of getting my license restored, I sent in my restoration packet CEU and fee. That was my question will I have to take the exam over? When I took it, it was NCTMB? Thank you!
I see no reason you would need to take it over. Their application clearly states you can use your scores.
https://www.idfpr.com/Forms/Online/(227)%20Massage%20Therapist%20User%20Guide.pdf
3. Proof of passage of an examination must be sent directly from one of the
following entities.
Massage & & Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx)
National Certification Exam for Therapeutic Massage and
Bodywork (NCBTMB) taken before February 2015.
Hi Ivy! I just passed my mblex – is there a way to see my “score” or see how I did in each section?
As of July 1st, the FSMTB is no longer providing scores on the MBLEx reports. People that fail will be provided with a little more information. In each category it will tell them how they performed – poor, borderline, or good. I am working on a post on this, but it is not quite ready.
Hi Ivy, I failed the first time and do you think the MBLEx test is always the same, or will it change? Thank you.
Each exam attempt will be different. Your exam will not be the same as any one else exam either.
Is there an option to flag questions to answer later?
Not at this time. The software we are not using is constantly being updated and it may be added in the future. Currently, once a question is used, it will not come up again until you go through all other questions in that category.
Hello! How is the test scored? Is there a set amount you can miss and still get a 630? Is the score dependant on under which category the question falls (ie ethics questions are worth 5 where anatomy questions are worth 4)?
Hi Mindy,
The test is scaled out of 900. There is not a certain amount you can miss as this is a CAT exam. This means different questions (not based on category, but on difficulty) are weighted differently. So the exam adapts to your level and if you do test above the 630 mark, you pass the exam.
I should have mentioned that after July 1st, 2017, the FSMTB is going to a Pass/Fail scoring. They will no longer give you a score, but the report will still indicate how you faired in each subject (good, borderline, poor, etc). Sorry, I forgot about that change!
Hello Ivy, thank you for all of the great information. I am wondering how many hours of schooling does a person need to be qualified to take the exam?
Thank you,
Connie
Currently, there is not an hour requirement. After July 1st, 2017. there will be an educational requirement. You can read about that here —> https://www.fsmtb.org/mblex/. There is an email contact on the page if you need more detailed information.
Ivy
I’ve been a CMT here in Los Angeles for the past 6yrs. I’m moving to Louisiana this year, and will need to take the MBLEX. A co-worker loaned me a study guide & sample exam for NCETMB. I realize this test is no longer being offered, but is the guide basically the same as the MBLEX study guide, or should I purchase an actual MBLEX guide & sample exam books? Also, the rule that goes into effect July 1st means what exactly?
The NCETMB is definitely not the MBLEx. But, the study guide may be quite helpful for basic information. I would still learn about how the tests are different.
Our website is up to date for the 2017 content breakdown.
The July changes can be found here – https://www.fsmtb.org/mblex/
It has to do with proving you completed acceptable education to the FSMTB.
I finished school in July. I took and failed the mblex in October and I’ll be retaking it may 11th. I failed by 8 points. Most catorgories I was borderline. Physiological questions were difficult because I wasn’t prepared.
Best wishes in May! Always start studying those problem areas first.
Good morning, I graduated in August 2016 from Massage school. I took the MBLEX 2 times and both times failed with a score of 624!! I was completely shocked the second time because I felt good studying for the exam and even while taking it. I have apps, books and the study manual. What else do I need to study?
Hi Erin,
624 is close, but there must be something that is keeping you from getting over that 630 mark. Do you consistently score low in a subject, or has it varied?
I did not see this email address in the system, so I assumed you have not tried the study guide and program I offer. It has helped many people that have failed the MBLEx previously work on their trouble spots and use practice simulations to pass the MBLEx. If you have any questions about it, let me know.
What is your email address I need your help email me secretday24@gmail.com I have so many questions
My email is ivy@massageexamacademy.com
Erin, I am in the same boat . Failed twice , both with a 607. I am so confused . I felt so confident leaving the exam and was so sure I passed, too! I also have plenty of study guides and have no clue what I am doing wrong. Which study guide did you wind up getting or what did you do? I bought Ivy’s yesterday. I am hoping I don’t fail this a third time, I don’t want to go back and pay for more schooling .
I am so discouraged. I am 20. I took the test for the fourth time and still cannot pass. My score was 570 – which actually has been my best score so far. I study everyday with books, cards, apps – everything. I passed my massage therapy courses with ease – mostly because I am a tactile learner. I loved the school because it was not the book learning that I hated in high school. I’ve always had a hard time in school with reading and comprehension and taking tests has ALWAYS been amazingly difficult for me. My life is on hold until I pass this test. If I get a FT job somewhere I will lose motivation to study but it’s so frustrating. I’m actually very scared now.
Hi Paula,
I was 21 when I took my first licensing exam (NCETMB) and 31 when I took the MBLEx. I actually think I was more nervous the second time I took an exam.
Many massage therapists are hands-on learners and struggle with exams. Something you can do is learn to visualize what you are learning through hands-on studying. Close your eyes and visualize yourself touching a part of the body, moving it and assessing it. What does it look like or feel like? This may help you as you try to recall information during the exam. I closed my eyes and looked at my own body a lot during the second exam.
Try this out while taking practice exams first, not on your next MBLEx attempt, to see if it is helpful for you.
Make sure you are studying and learning the information and not just memorizing questions you see on apps.
Focus on the subject you are consistently scoring poorly in on the MBLEx.
I AM ALSO PREPARING TO TAKE THIS TEST I HAVEN’T TAKEN IT IN 3 YEARS, I AM CLUE LESS BOUT WHERE TO START, SENSE I HAVE BEEN THE TEXT TAKING MODE. PLEASE ADVISE
Hi Shameeka. I know many others that have waited to take the exam. I always think it is best to put together a study plan. Think about how much time you have to study each day and which subjects you need the most work on. Start with those subjects. The study program on this site does provide a “Getting Started” area to help those that are feeling overwhelmed and do not know where to begin.
It really frustrates (and infuriates) me that you cannot go back and change your answers on the Mblex. I’m paying $200 to take this exam. Some of us do not test well, and things hit us at different moments. If they are not going to allow us the freedom to go back and change our answers once we have answered a question, then they need to lower the cost of taking the test, drastically. I’m already in debt with student loans for Massage Therapy school as it is.
Hi Hollie, I believe they got rid of the going back when the exam transitioned to CAT (Computer Adaptive Testing). Since the exam adapts as you answer, I believe this eliminated the ability to allow testers to go back. The MBLEx is priced similar to most professional exams, although most others make the wait time between testing even longer than the FSMTB. Most professional licensing exams also use CAT testing and do not allow testers to jump between questions.
I know it is hard not passing and there are many people that do not test well. Focus on your weaker subject areas as well as on your test-taking skills.
They should allow people to go back on questions it’s so hard without it because if people don’t know answer then after whole text go back think about other questions that that holds up a lot of questions might know we spend time a lot the questions we might ever Hurd of please hope they change to go back like the FCAT it well passing so much better
Good evening, Ivy!
I graduated massase therapy school in 2014. My dream is to won my own spa. I am so clueless as to where to even begin or how to study. Please help. Thanks!
Hi Sylvia,
You can start with my free 1 day course on the homepage: http://www.massageexamacademy.com. It should help you are you prepare to study for the MBLEx. Here is the Facebook page if you want to follow along with some of my tips and sample questions – https://www.facebook.com/MassageExamAcademy/?fref=ts/
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Hi, I haven’t taken the test in 2 years and I feel completely lost, where should I start
I sent a message to your email, Kim.
You guys can’t stop trying! If massage is your dream don’t give up on it!
Hi I. Failing 2 times for 1 point I made 629 for 2 times I can’t believe I don’t know what to do and my English very bad that why I failed I hope next week I going to pass
Many people that have English as a second language struggle with the MBLEx even when the know the information. It sounds like you are very, very close. Often there are free ESL courses/tutors in most cities that may be helpful.
Hi Ivy how are you . I am going to try again after failing 3 times already. Every time i failed i feel so discourage that makes not wanna do massage again but i feel that its a person challenge to pass this test. I honestly dont know what is but I failed for 9 points the last two times. So i know that I am very close. I purchased this last time but i dont think i used it much because i was using so many materials like books and stuff….Hopefully I get to pass this time.
Hi Tatiana,
If you did purchase the program, let me know what your username is so I can issue your extension for studying. Also, let me know if there are any areas that you are struggling with on the exam. I can give you some advice. Try studying by subject in each of your books. Do not read each book cover to cover. If anatomy is your weakest area, start there and read the anatomy section in all your books. It will be less overwhelming. Then when you have a good grasp of that subject, move onto the next.
Nine points is VERY close. If massage is what you are wanting to do, then take the exam again. I have talked to so many people that fail their exam a few times, quit trying for a few years and wish they would have tried again. Make a study plan and stick to it.