Visit the BCNS Form Overview page for a complete list of downloadable forms and applications.
Step 1: Degree & Coursework
The required degree and coursework must be complete before submitting the application.
Step 2: Practice Experience
MD and DO Candidates must submit one Personalized Nutrition (PN) Case Data Collection & one PN Case Report for a case that has occurred within the past 5 years.
Step 3: Examination
Once you have completed your Eligibility Requirements (Degree & Coursework and Practice Experience), you may complete and submit the Exam Application
Certification Examinations for Nutrition Specialists℠ are held twice a year.
The next CNS exam will be held June 10 - 14, 2023; applications are due April 14, 2023.
The following exam will be held December 9 - 13, 2023; applications are due October 27, 2023.
We are pleased to announce that we have partnered with a testing center and now have the ability to offer hundreds of testing centers across the country so that candidates won't have to travel. There will be a nominal fee, paid directly to the test center.
Upon your application approval to sit for the CNS exam, details will be sent to you so you can arrange for your local test center.
Here is a list of the current test centers, and they will be adding even more in the coming weeks.
The CNS application fee is $100. Upon approval to sit for the exam, the exam fee is $300. Fees are paid through the Portal.
* Effective July 1, 2023 - CNS Examination Fee increases to $400, effective for the December 2023 Examination.
You now have the ability to download forms and upload completed forms directly through My Portal!
Navigate to the Forms page under Certifications and select or upload the appropriate form.
Candidates who pass the examination and complete the practice experience requirements will be granted the Certified Nutrition Specialist® credential.