I won’t hit you with the usual “it depends” response—we all know it depends! You’re here for a clear answer, so let’s break it down and get you the guidance you need to decide how long you should take to study for the NPTE.

First thing, here are your options: 6 weeks, 2 months, 3 months

Secondly, here are the 5 key questions you need to consider:

1. How did you perform academically during school?

High achiever: If you consistently performed at the top of your class, a 6-week to 2-month study plan may be sufficient to reinforce your knowledge and refine your exam strategy.

Average student: if you performed steadily in the middle of the class, a study period of 2 or 3 months provides the extra time needed to address any knowledge gaps.

Academic probation or challenges: If you struggled to pass certain courses, consider a 3-month study timeline to ensure thorough content review and ample time to solidify your understanding.

Why this matters: Your performance over the past few years is a helpful indicator of how quickly you may progress in your review. Remember, you’re going through pretty much everything all over again.

2. What study resources will you primarily use?

Textbooks: Expect a longer timeline of 2 to 3 months. Textbook study demands a slower pace to fully absorb and retain the content.

Lecture-based prep courses: Guided courses often provide structured, time-efficient study schedules, generally spanning about 2 to 3 months.

Why this matters: Different study resources require different levels of time and focus. For some, reading can take much longer than watching a video, depending on individual learning preferences.

3. Are you studying independently or with a structured program?

Self-paced: a 2- to 3-month timeline is advisable. Without a set structure, it’s easy to underestimate the time required for comprehensive review.

Guided course: of course, follow the recommended schedule. You will find prep courses of all time frames.

Why this matters: Independent study requires significant discipline and planning, as freedom can lead to distractions or procrastination.

Not a problem for some, but be realistic with your habits! Guided programs provide a structured schedule, allowing for a streamlined and focused approach.

4. How many practice exams do you intend to take?

My recommendation is to aim to take a practice exam every 2-3 weeks. At least one needs to be the PEAT!

2 practice exams: 6-weeks. Take one exam early on to assess baseline knowledge and another to evaluate progress.

3 practice exams: 2 months. Allow time to thoroughly analyze results and identify weak areas.

4+ practice exams: 3 months. You’ll burn yourself out by taking 4 practice exams with any less time.

Why this matters: Practice exams serve as important benchmarks in your preparation. A greater number of exams requires more time for analysis, review, and targeted improvement. Plus, you get to see a trend in your scores to see if you’re truly ready to take the exam.

5. Are you in clinical rotations or working as a PTLA?

Yes, in clinical rotations or working: 3-months. With an 8-hour workday, you may only realistically study 2 hours in the evening, meaning you’ll need a longer timeline to accumulate sufficient review hours.

Not working or on rotations: If you’re able to commit to full-time studying, you may consider a shorter 6-week or 2-month timeline.

Why this matters: Studying for the NPTE should be treated like a full-time job! You’re condensing 2-3 years of material into just 6 weeks to 3 months, so the hours you dedicate really do make a difference.

Final Thoughts on Making your Decision: The 2 Most Important of These Questions…

To help narrow your choice, the two most important of these questions are:

#1 How did you perform academically during school?

#5 Are you in clinical rotations or working as a PTLA?

Be honest and realistic with yourself. The truth is, the more time you give yourself to study, the better your chances of success. Sure, a 6-week timeline might sound more appealing than 12 weeks, but why take the risk if it could mean having to go through it all over again?

There is no “perfect” timeline—only the one that best fits your individual strengths, resources, and responsibilities. Realistically, regardless of how long or short you study for, you will only pass the NPTE if you learn to study correctly. Good luck with your studies!