Comparing ANCC and AANP Certification

Have you ever bothered comparing ANCC and AANP certification ? Well, if not then this is what this article is all about. Now,  not all states mandate national certification for nurse practitioners (NPs), but opting for certification brings advantages to both NPs and their patients. NP candidates are tasked with the decision of selecting the certifying body.

Upon completing your nurse practitioner (NP) program, you’ll be required to opt for a national certification examination to validate your eligibility to practice. You have the option to select between two credentialing organizations: the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB) and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), serving as a national membership body for NPs, operates alongside the AANPCB, which is the independent certifying entity. Both certification exams—ANCC and AANPCB—are thorough and esteemed pathways for nurse practitioners, each with its distinct focus and purpose.

While ANCC certification commonly attracts NPs inclined towards teaching and research, AANPCB certification often appeals to those aspiring for clinical careers. In 2022, 17,968 family nurse practitioner candidates opted for the AANP examination, with a pass rate of 74%, while 8,192 chose the ANCC examination, with an 87% pass rate.

Understanding the nuances between these certification exams is crucial for selecting the one that aligns best with your career objectives. Let’s delve into their similarities and disparities, empowering you to make an informed choice that suits your aspirations.

Comparing ANCC and AANP Certification; What is the Difference

The ANCC, born in 1991 as a branch of the American Nurses Association (ANA), traces its roots back to the ANA’s initial certification standards set in 1973. By 1975, it had launched a collaborative effort in maternal, gynecological, and neonatal nursing.

The inception of the AANPCB is marked by a more intricate narrative. It originated in 1985 with the establishment of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, followed by the independent incorporation of the AANPCB in 1999. In 2013, the merger of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners with the American College of Nurse Practitioners gave rise to the present-day AANP.

While the AANP functions as the membership association, the AANPCB operates as the certifying authority. Nonetheless, it’s common for many to still refer to it as the AANP certification.

Contrasting ANCC and AANP Certification Examinations

The development process of the certification examinations has contributed significantly to the notable disparities between the tests. Despite similar pricing—$315 for nonmembers for the AANP exam and $395 for nonmembers for the ANCC exam—distinct differences exist in their structure and focus.

Similarities in Exams

Both the ANCC and AANP examinations share certain commonalities. They are conducted at contracted test centers and are comparable in length. The AANP exam for family nurse practitioners (FNPs) consists of 150 questions to be completed within three hours, while the ANCC exam comprises 175 questions to be answered within 3.5 hours. Notably, in the ANCC exam, only 150 questions are scored, with the remaining 25 considered as “test” questions for potential inclusion in future examinations.

Previously, the ANCC exam leaned towards a research-oriented approach; however, this was revised in 2019 to incorporate more clinical content and reduce theoretical emphasis. The ANCC assessment evaluates clinical competencies encompassing comprehensive history and physical examination, risk assessment, diagnostic test selection, pharmacological intervention, cultural sensitivity, and resource management.

Differences in Exams

In contrast, the AANP exam places a stronger emphasis on clinical proficiency, assessing NP candidates’ capabilities in assessment, diagnosis, planning, and evaluation. This clinical-centric approach—where the entire test is dedicated to clinical scenarios—has led some NPs to perceive the AANP exam as comparatively easier to prepare for, undertake, and pass than its ANCC counterpart.

However, distinctions emerge in the scope of certifications offered. While the ANCC examination can certify professionals across five primary care specialties, the AANP test focuses solely on adult-gerontology, family, and emergency nurse practitioners.

The ANCC grants board certification (FNP-BC) with a broad focus, often attracting individuals inclined towards academia or nursing policy guidance. On the other hand, the AANP issues a certification (FNP-C) tailored for NPs aspiring for clinical practice.

Save great with your nursing assignment. Get assistance with nursing paper

Certification Renewal Process

Both ANCC and AANP certifications necessitate renewal every five years, ensuring currency and competence within the field. For ANCC renewal, applicants can initiate the process up to one year before their certification expiration date.

To qualify for renewal, nurses must maintain a current and active RN license, possess ongoing ANCC board certification, fulfill 75 continuing education credits, and submit the requisite renewal fee. Additionally, NP renewal requires engagement in one of eight professional development categories, encompassing activities such as presentations, continued education participation, publications, or research endeavors.

In contrast, the AANP offers multiple pathways for renewal. NPs can opt to renew by meeting specified minimums in clinical practice hours and continuing education, or alternatively, by retaking the certification examination. A minimum of 1,000 practice hours within their specialized population focus and completion of 100 contact hours of advanced continuing education are mandatory for renewal eligibility.

For NP candidates, determining which certification exam to undertake may seem daunting, with perceptions of one being easier than the other. However, such judgments are subjective and hinge on individual knowledge and test-taking skills. To assist in your decision-making process, let’s weigh the pros and cons of each option.

Choosing Between ANCC and AANP Certification: Making the Right Decision

Let’s look at some pros and cons of each unit

ANCC: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Focuses predominantly on clinical content, with 10% of questions addressing professional roles.
• Offers certifications across a wider spectrum of specialties, including adult-gerontology (primary and acute), family, pediatrics, and psychiatric mental health.
• Grants board certification (FNP-BC) with a broad scope, appealing to those interested in academia or research alongside clinical practice.
• Renewal occurs every five years, requiring completion of 75 continuing education hours, maintenance of an active RN license, and ongoing ANCC board certification.

Cons:

• Incorporates varied question formats, including drag and drop, multiple answers, and hot spot-type questions.
• Duration of the test is slightly longer than AANP, lasting 3.5 hours with 175 questions.

AANP: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Features straightforward multiple-choice questions.
• Shorter duration of 3 hours with 150 questions.
• Grants certification (FNP-C) with a strong emphasis on clinical practice, appealing to those focused primarily on patient care.
• Renewal occurs every five years, with options to retake the exam or fulfill specified clinical practice and continuing education requirements.

Cons:

• Limited to certifying in two primary care specialties: adult-gerontology and family.
• Recorded a lower pass rate in 2022 compared to ANCC, although pass rates have fluctuated over recent years.
• Ultimately, the decision rests on aligning the certification’s focus and format with your career aspirations and preferences. Evaluating these factors against your professional goals will guide you towards selecting the certification exam that best suits your individual trajectory.

Comparing ANCC and AANP Certification helps in choosing between ANCC and AANP certification for Nurse Practitioners demands a thorough understanding of each certification’s nuances. ANCC, with a broader focus and diverse question formats, caters to those inclined towards academia or research. Conversely, AANP, with a clinical-centric approach, appeals to NPs primarily focused on patient care. Ultimately, the choice should align with individual career aspirations and preferences.