BCBA exam cost in 2026: application, retake and appointment fees
The 2026 BCBA fees are $245 for the certification application paid to the BACB, $125 for the examination appointment paid to Pearson VUE, and $140 for each examination retake application plus another appointment fee. BACB fees are non-refundable and non-transferable, and qualifying veterans can claim GI Bill reimbursement for examination fees whether or not they pass.
Fees (BCBA Handbook, June 2026)
| Fee | Amount | Paid to |
|---|---|---|
| Certification application | $245 | BACB |
| Examination appointment | $125 | Pearson VUE |
| Examination retake application | $140 | BACB (plus a new $125 appointment) |
A first attempt therefore costs $370; each failed attempt adds $265. With up to 8 attempts allowed in the 2-year window and 30 days between them, the real cost of an unprepared first sitting is a month of delay plus $265.
What the fees do not cover
Coursework, fieldwork supervision (often paid or unpaid depending on the employer), and study materials are separate. The diagnostic and planner on this site are free.
Renewal
Certification is maintained through recertification cycles with continuing education; see the Handbook for current recertification fees and CEU requirements.
Enter your exam date and weekly hours; we allocate time by blueprint weight × your weak spots.
Primary references
- BCBA Handbook (updated June 2026) — Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) · primary · retrieved 2026-09-22, verified 2026-09-22