How many questions can I miss on the CPC exam?

How many questions can I miss on the CPC exam? Discover the allowed margin for error on the CPC exam. Learn how many questions you can afford to get wrong and still pass the certification test.

How many questions can I miss on the CPC exam?

The CPC exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions, which cover various topics related to medical coding and billing. These topics include medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, coding guidelines, and reimbursement methodologies. The exam is divided into two sections, each containing 75 questions.

In order to determine how many questions you can miss on the CPC exam, it is important to understand how the exam is scored. The AAPC uses a points-based scoring system, where each question is worth one point. To pass the exam, you must achieve a minimum score of 70%. This means that out of the total 150 questions, you must answer at least 105 questions correctly to pass.

While the exact number of questions you can miss may vary slightly due to the presence of pretest questions, which do not count towards your final score, it is generally recommended to aim for answering at least 117-118 questions correctly. This accounts for the potential presence of pretest questions and ensures that you achieve the minimum passing score of 70%.

It is important to note that the CPC exam does not penalize for incorrect answers. This means that you should never leave a question unanswered, as there is a possibility of guessing correctly. By eliminating obviously incorrect options and using your knowledge and reasoning skills, you can increase your chances of selecting the correct answer, even if you are unsure.

Preparing for the CPC exam requires diligent study and practice. It is essential to review the recommended study materials and take advantage of practice exams and review courses offered by the AAPC. By thoroughly understanding the coding guidelines, familiarizing yourself with commonly used codes, and practicing time management during the exam, you can increase your chances of passing on your first attempt.

In conclusion, while the exact number of questions you can miss on the CPC exam may vary slightly, aiming to answer at least 117-118 questions correctly is recommended. By thoroughly preparing and practicing, you can increase your chances of passing the exam and becoming a certified professional coder.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many questions can I miss on the CPC exam?

The number of questions you can miss on the CPC (Certified Professional Coder) exam to pass may vary from one exam administration to another. The passing score is determined by the AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders) and can range from 60% to 70%, depending on the difficulty level of the exam. Therefore, the specific number of questions you can miss will depend on the total number of questions and the passing score for that particular exam.

2. What happens if I do not pass the CPC exam?

If you do not pass the CPC exam, you will not achieve the CPC certification. However, you will have the opportunity to retake the exam. The AAPC allows candidates to retake the exam after a waiting period of at least 30 days. It is important to review and prepare extensively before retaking the exam to improve your chances of success.

3. Are all questions on the CPC exam scored equally?

Yes, all questions on the CPC exam are typically scored equally. Each question carries the same weight in the overall scoring of the exam. Therefore, it is important to answer each question to the best of your ability, as this will contribute to your overall score.

4. Can I review my answers after completing the CPC exam?

No, you will not be able to review your answers after completing the CPC exam. Once you submit your exam, it is final and cannot be changed or reviewed. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully read and consider each question before selecting your answer during the exam.

5. Is there a penalty for guessing on the CPC exam?

No, there is no penalty for guessing on the CPC exam. It is always better to make an educated guess than to leave a question unanswered. If you are unsure about the correct answer, eliminate any obviously incorrect options and then select the best possible answer based on your knowledge and understanding of the material.

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