Didn’t pass the RBT exam? You’re not alone, and it’s not the end of the road. Many candidates face this hurdle, but with the right approach, you can turn this temporary setback into a powerful comeback. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the next steps to help you bounce back stronger and succeed on your next attempt.
What Happens If You Don’t Pass the RBT Exam?
According to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), approximately 74% of candidates pass the RBT exam on their first try. That means more than a quarter of applicants don’t pass initially, and that’s perfectly okay.
The BACB allows you up to eight exam attempts within a 12-month authorization window, with no additional fee for re-examination. If you don’t pass, you’ll be able to reapply through your BACB account within 48 hours of your exam results. Once the application is processed, you can schedule your next attempt after a minimum 7-day waiting period.
You can retake the RBT exam up to 8 times within the 12-month period, you will need to wait for that period to end before reapplying. When you reapply, both the application processing fee and the exam scheduling fee must be paid again.
RBT Exam Pass Rate Overview
In 2023, 70,000+ candidates took the RBT exam, and about 74% passed on their first attempt, based on BACB’s annual data. However, only 41% of candidates passed on their second try, showing a significant drop-off after the first attempt.
Interestingly, the overall pass rate was as high as 84% in 2020, but it has declined steadily since then. This downward trend suggests that many test-takers are underprepared, possibly due to insufficient study time or lack of effective resources. To improve your chances, we highly recommend working through our comprehensive free study guide and taking multiple practice tests to build confidence and accuracy.
What to Do After Failing the RBT Exam
Experiencing failure on the RBT exam can feel discouraging, but it’s important to recognize that it’s just a step in the learning process. Here’s a roadmap to help you move forward with clarity and confidence:
1. Give Yourself Time to Decompress
Before jumping back into study mode, take some time to rest and clear your mind. Rushing to reschedule the exam within a week, while technically allowed, is often counterproductive. Statistics show that only 41% of candidates pass on their second try, and stress is a common factor.
Mental clarity is essential for absorbing new information and thinking critically. A short break can make a significant difference in your next study cycle.
2. Reflect on Your Weak Areas
After you’ve had a chance to recharge, take time to analyze your previous exam experience:
- Which concepts were the most difficult for you?
- Did any question formats trip you up?
- Were time constraints an issue?
By identifying your weak points, you can build a more focused and efficient study strategy. Even if some sections felt easier, it’s still wise to review the entire study guide to reinforce your understanding.
3. Adjust and Strengthen Your Study Plan
A solid study plan is your key to success. Now that you know where you need to improve, revise your schedule to make it more effective:
- Break topics into smaller, manageable chunks.
- Use a variety of study tools like textbooks, flashcards, and video lessons.
- Stick to a consistent daily or weekly routine.
This structured approach helps retain information better and keeps you on track.
4. Increase Your Practice Test Exposure
The RBT exam is delivered via computer, and many candidates struggle simply because they’re unfamiliar with the format. Taking frequent practice tests is one of the best ways to prepare.
Practice exams help you:
- Get used to the computer-based interface.
- Improve your pacing and time management.
- Identify common question patterns.
After each test, carefully review the questions you got wrong and study the correct answers to reinforce your learning.
5. Schedule Your Retake Strategically
Once you feel confident, go ahead and schedule your next exam. The BACB allows you to retake the test as soon as 7 days after your last attempt, but don’t rush it. Make sure you’ve addressed the areas where you struggled and built a stronger foundation before sitting again.
Final Thoughts
Failing the RBT exam isn’t a failure, it’s a detour. With the right mindset, strategic preparation, and dedication, you can return stronger and more prepared. Take time to reset, reassess your approach, and commit to improving. Every attempt is a step closer to your goal of becoming a Registered Behavior Technician.
