How Do I Get a CCMA Passing Score?
You Heard it Here First
Whether you're just starting your medical assistant training or getting ready to sit for the exam, this guide breaks down what the CCMA is, what to expect on test day, how to prepare, and how Skilltrade's Medical Assistant Program can set you up for success.
If getting a CCMA passing score is on your list of goals, you're in the right place; we've got you covered.
What is the CCMA Exam?
This exam (the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)) is administered by the highly reputable National Healthcareer Association (NHA). The CCMA exam is typically considered the gold standard for clinical medical assistant certification. It tests the knowledge, skills, and abilities you need to succeed in a healthcare setting. Plus, it signals to employers that you're prepared to provide quality patient care from day one.
Once you pass the CCMA exam, you'll be certified to perform a wide range of administrative and clinical duties in hospitals, clinics, physicians' offices, and other healthcare environments. Your certification:
- Proves your clinical readiness
- Boosts your hiring potential
- Qualifies you for more jobs and better pay
This certification is more than a resume booster. It's a door-opener to higher pay, more job security, and meaningful work that directly impacts patients' lives. It's also a requirement for many employers, especially those looking for skilled, certified talent who can hit the ground running.
What to Expect on the CCMA Exam
Let's get one thing straight: the CCMA exam is not something to take lightly. It's a rigorous test designed to confirm that you're ready for the real-world responsibilities of a clinical medical assistant.
Here's what you'll face on exam day:
- Total Questions: 180 (150 scored + 30 unscored pretest questions)
- Format: Multiple-choice
- Time Limit: 3 hours
Many students underestimate the exam, thinking it'll just test basic concepts. But it's actually designed to be rigorous—and for good reason. Medical assistants are essential team members in any healthcare facility. They're often the first point of contact for patients, and they support both front-office and back-office operations.
Failing to prepare thoroughly can mean:
- Delays in starting your career
- Extra costs for retaking the exam
- Lost momentum and confidence
That's why investing in the right preparation program—one that includes an exam-focused curriculum, hands-on experience, and expert guidance—is critical.
CCMA Exam Question Types and Categories
The CCMA exam content covers a broad range of topics. You'll need to be proficient in everything from vital signs to EKG prep to front-office procedures.
- Foundational Knowledge & Basic Science
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Clinical Patient Care (largest section of the exam!)
- Patient Care Coordination and Education
- Administrative Assisting
- Communication and Customer Service
- Medical Law and Ethics
Passing the CCMA exam requires more than just surface-level memorization. You'll need to apply critical thinking, recall detailed procedures, and understand healthcare systems and documentation standards.
CCMA Exam Question Types: What You'll Be Tested On
So, now you know the CCMA exam is multiple choice, but what exactly will the questions ask you? The exam is structured around the real-world responsibilities of a clinical medical assistant, and it's broken down into clearly defined sections. Each one represents a core part of the job, so knowing what's included can help you focus your study time and practice effectively.
Here's a closer look at the major content areas you'll see on the exam:
Clinical Patient Care (Largest Portion of the Exam)
This section makes up the bulk of the CCMA exam—and for good reason. Most medical assistants spend the majority of their time in clinical patient care. These questions evaluate your ability to perform hands-on, patient-facing duties in a clinical environment.
Expect questions on:
- Taking /recording vital signs (such as temperature, blood pressure, pulse, respiration)
- Performing EKGs (understanding lead placement, troubleshooting errors)
- Collecting specimens (like urine and blood samples)
- Point-of-care testing (glucose monitoring and pregnancy tests, etc.)
- Assisting with minor procedures (prepping equipment, sterile fields)
- Wound care and bandaging (proper cleaning/covering of wounds to prevent infections)
- Administering medications (dosage, routes of administration, safety protocols)
Patient Intake and Documentation
The exam will assess your knowledge of how to properly gather and document patient information—something that sets the tone for every clinical encounter.
This includes:
- Collecting medical, surgical, and family histories
- Documenting chief complaints and symptoms
- Recording medication lists and allergies
- Measuring height, weight, BMI, and other metrics
- Ensuring accurate and complete EMR (Electronic Medical Record) entries
Safety, Compliance, and Infection Control
This section ensures you understand how to protect patients, coworkers, and yourself in a healthcare setting. These questions cover essential standards for maintaining a safe, clean environment.
Expect to be tested on:
- OSHA regulations
- CDC infection control protocols
- Disposal of sharps and biohazardous waste
- Proper hand hygiene and use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Emergency response procedures
- Understanding of HIPAA and patient privacy laws
Administrative Tasks and Front Office Operations
Medical assistants don't just work with patients; they also keep things running smoothly behind the scenes. This section of the exam focuses on your ability to manage day-to-day office responsibilities.
You'll need to know:
- How to schedule and confirm appointments
- Understanding insurance types (private, Medicare, Medicaid)
- Filing claims and processing payments
- Medical coding basics (CPT, ICD-10)
- Handling patient check-in and check-out procedures
- Maintaining medical records and communication logs
Communication, Customer Service, and Professionalism
This section focuses on interpersonal skills—something that can make or break a patient's experience. These questions assess how well you understand professional communication and empathy and how to handle sensitive topics or difficult situations.
You'll be tested on:
- Effective verbal and non-verbal communication
- Cultural sensitivity
- Handling difficult conversations
- Working with upset or anxious patients
- Professional boundaries and conduct
- Collaborating with healthcare teams
Basic Anatomy, Physiology, and Medical Terminology
You won't need to be a doctor to pass this part, but you do need to have a solid grasp of the human body, organ systems, and common medical terms. These foundational questions make sure you understand how the body works—and what happens when something goes wrong.
Topics might include:
- Body systems and their functions (nervous, cardiovascular, digestive, etc.)
- Common medical prefixes, suffixes, and root words
- Recognizing symptoms that indicate serious conditions
- Understanding diagnostic tests and procedures
CCMA Passing Score
To pass the CCMA exam, you need to obtain a score of 390 out of 500. That might sound daunting, but here's the good news: As of 2024, the national pass rate is around 73%. This means nearly three-quarters of test-takers pass on their first attempt. With the right preparation, you can, too. Skilltrade's Medical Assistant Program has comprehensive CCMA exam prep built into the curriculum, so students head into the exam with the ultimate level of confidence.
How to Qualify to Take the CCMA Exam
Before you register, make sure you meet the NHA's eligibility criteria. Typically, you must:
- Be 18 years or older
- Have obtained an HS diploma, GED, or equivalent education
- Have completed a medical assistant training program within the last 5 years
- OR have at least 1 year of supervised experience as a medical assistant
Skilltrade's online and hybrid Medical Assistant programs ensure you meet these requirements while giving you the skills to excel. Plus, we work closely with hospitals, healthcare facilities, and workforce boards to help you access free training through workforce grants and employer-sponsored training. Imagine graduating with no out-of-pocket costs–and no debt!
If you're still unsure whether you qualify, Skilltrade's support team can walk you through it.
How to Register for the CCMA Exam
Those who train with Skilltrade will be walked through the process of registering for the CCMA exam; however, anyone who meets the requirements can register may register directly through the NHA website. Here’s some additional important information to be aware of:
- Cost: $180 (but it's included in Skilltrade's program tuition!).
- Retake Policy: You can retake the exam up to three times if needed. (Additional exam fees are not included in Skilltrade's tuition.)
How to Study for the CCMA Exam
Preparation is everything. Here are our top three tips for how to study effectively:
- Train with Skilltrade: Skilltrade’s CCMA program curriculum threads exam preparation directly into every lesson. You’ll work with AI‑powered virtual patients, interactive 3D demonstrations, and gamified quizzes that mirror CCMA exam scenarios, so learning, practice, and review happen all at once. Progress snapshots and customized quiz feedback highlight where you’re strong and where a quick refresher will boost your score. Dynamic videos created with experienced medical assistants tie each topic to real‑world practice, and immersive virtual simulations let you polish your technique as often as you like. Choose the fully online track or our flexible hybrid format; both fit comfortably around a busy schedule while keeping certification success front and center.
Use a Study Guide: Read our comprehensive article, The Ultimate CCMA Exam Study Guide and Prep Tips, to learn everything you need to know to ace the exam on your first try.
Practice Tests: Take mock exams to get familiar with the format. When you train with Skilltrade, we provide plenty of practice tests to help you get comfortable with the types of questions and material that will be on the exam.
Hands-On Experience: Whether you choose the hybrid track with ten on-site lab sessions and a required externship, or the fully online track with unlimited access to high-fidelity virtual simulations and an optional externship, you'll walk into the CCMA exam with hands-on experience and clinical confidence.
Career Outlook for CCMAs
CCMAs are in high demand, with employment expected to grow 15% by 2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's much faster than average, which means right now is the best time to jump into the field.
With a CCMA certification, you can start working as a medical assistant and specialize from there. There are so many opportunities for growth. With your certification, you can be a:
- Clinical Medical Assistant
- EKG Technician
- Phlebotomy Technician
- Patient Care Coordinator
- Specialized Medical Assistant (in whatever you choose!)
The median salary for a CCMA in the U.S. is $42,000, but you can absolutely go up from there, especially if you're committed to continuing your education, gaining additional experience, and focusing on an area to specialize in. You can make your career whatever you want it to be.
How Skilltrade Helps You Pass the CCMA Exam
Skilltrade's Medical Assistant Program is built around one goal: getting you certified and career-ready fast. We've streamlined the training process so you can balance learning with work or family responsibilities and still get the preparation you need to pass the CCMA exam with confidence. Here's how we help:
- Aligned with the NHA Exam: Our curriculum is tailored to the CCMA test content.
- Interactive Learning: Engaging videos, simulations, and quizzes make learning fun.
- Hands-on and Virtual Labs: Get hands-on with clinical skills, from phlebotomy to EKGs and more.
- Test Readiness Coaching: Built-in exam prep, flashcards, and practice tests make learning more effective.
- Flexible Learning: Choose from 100% online and hybrid formats; graduate in just 20 weeks.
Ready to Get a CCMA Passing Score?
If you're passionate about becoming a CCMA and want the best training to get a CCMA passing score and build a thriving healthcare career, Skilltrade is the best place to start your journey. Our flexible online and hybrid programs are designed to prepare you for the CCMA exam and a rewarding career in healthcare. Plus, our partnerships with healthcare organizations mean many of our students qualify for free or low-cost training.
Get in touch to find out your path to becoming a successful healthcare professional.
