What is the difference between FNP-C and FNP-BC?
Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs) are advanced practice nurses who are qualified to care for patients of all ages in a variety of healthcare settings, such as hospitals, doctor’s offices and outpatient facilities. They can diagnose and treat conditions as well as prescribe medications.
To become an FNP, you can take one of two certification pathways: FNP-C (Family Nurse Practitioner–Certified) or FNP-BC (Family Nurse Practitioner–Board Certified). While both credentials are nationally recognized, the difference between the two comes down to their certifying bodies, exam structure and areas of focus.
Do I need to be certified as an FNP?
After you complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), you must obtain a certification to work as an FNP. You may do so through one of two widely respected certification bodies:
- American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANP)
- American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
Once certified, you’ll need to apply for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) licensure in your state. Keep in mind that even if you passed a national exam from the AANP or ANCC, you won’t be able to practice legally without a state license. In addition, you must verify clinical hours, pass a background check and meet continuing education requirements.
History of AANP and ANCC
The AANP originated in 1985 with a mission to support and recognize nurse practitioners across the U.S. In 1991, the organization established a formal certification with the AANP exam. Over the years, AANP has evolved to also offers certifications for specialty areas such as family, pediatrics and mental health.
Founded in 1990 as a subsidiary of the American Nurses Association (ANA), the ANCC aims to advance excellence in nursing, recognize professional achievement and enhance healthcare outcomes nationwide. Today, the ANCC certification is known as the gold standard for nurse practitioners, especially those in leadership and academic positions.
FNP-C vs. FNP-BC credentials
The AANP administers the FNP-C certification. It involves an exam-based process
that is ingrained with clinical judgement and applied knowledge. The FNP-C exam consists of 150 questions that are mainly based on patient care situations.
The AANC, on the other hand, administers the FNP-BC certification which has a stronger academic focus. The FNP-BC exam is a bit longer with 175 questions—25% of which focus on healthcare policy, nursing theory and leadership.
While the testing styles of the AANP and ANCC are slightly different, the outcome is the same: competent, safe nurse practitioners who are qualified to work in a variety of healthcare settings.
Is the FNP-C or FNP-BC better?
Neither the FNP-C or FNP-BC is better than the other. “Both certifications are valid and widely accepted across the country,” said Dr. Deborah Hunt, Dean of the College of Nursing at Adelphi University.
One test doesn’t make you a more qualified provider as these tests only reflect your preferred method of thinking and career aspirations. The FNP-C, for example, may be a solid path for clinical decision-making and operational problem solving while the FNP-BC may be better suited for positions in leadership or academia.
No matter which route you take, you’ll be licensed to evaluate, diagnose and prescribe medications for patients of all ages, from infants to seniors. Put simply, the difference between FNP-C and FNP-BC is in the test-taking experience, not the end result.
What to know before you pursue an FNP-C or FNP-BC
First, make sure you want to become a FNP instead of another nurse practitioner specialization, such as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP), or Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP).
“Then, take one of the certification exams as soon as possible,” Hunt said.
Hunt also explained that while your graduate program can prepare you for the exam, you should still study and take an exam prep course to increase your chances of success.
How to take the FNP-C or FNP-BC exam
Once you complete a valid MSN or DNP and decide on an FNP certification exam, follow the steps below to complete the exam.
FNP-C
- Visit the AANP Certification Board website and create an account.
- Fill out the application form, which will ask for your personal information, education history, details about your nursing license and transcript.
- Pay the exam fee of $240 or $315, depending on if you’re a member.
- Wait for the AANP to review your application.
- Upon approval, expect an authorization to test (ATT) in your email.
- Schedule your exam at a Prometric testing center near you.
FNP-BC
- Visit the ANCC website and create an account.
- Submit the application, providing personal information as well as education, employment details and a transcript.
- Pay the exam fee, which may be anywhere from $290 to $395, depending on whether you’re a member of the ANCC or another accepted nursing organization.
- Wait for the ANCC to review your application.
- Once approved, check your email for an ATT.
- Schedule your exam at a Prometric testing center.
