What Is the Pass Rate for the MFT Exam? (2025 Update)

When I first started preparing for the National Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) exam, I wondered: “How many people actually pass this test?” Knowing the pass rate can help set realistic expectations and motivate you to prepare thoroughly. The exam is challenging, but the majority of candidates do eventually pass with consistent preparation.

Overview of the MFT Exam

The MFT exam, created by the Association of Marital & Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB), is required for licensure in most states.

  • Format: 180 multiple-choice questions (150 scored, 30 unscored).
  • Time Limit: 4 hours.
  • Domains Covered: Systemic therapy, assessment, treatment planning, ethics, crisis management, and termination.
  • Passing Score: Typically 102–106 correct out of 150 scored (~70%).

MFT Exam Pass Rate (2025)

  • The average pass rate for first-time test-takers is around 60–65% nationwide.
  • For repeat test-takers, the pass rate drops to around 30–40%.
  • Overall, this means the exam is difficult but not impossible — most candidates who prepare well pass within their first two attempts.

👉 Compared to other mental health licensing exams, the MFT exam has a moderate pass rate, reflecting its balance of theory, clinical reasoning, and applied skills.

Why Do Some Candidates Fail?

  1. Not Enough Preparation: Underestimating the breadth of the six domains.
  2. Weakness in Theoretical Models: Difficulty applying Structural, Bowenian, Strategic, CBT, or Narrative approaches.
  3. Time Management Issues: Struggling to pace across 180 questions in 4 hours.
  4. Stress & Test Anxiety: Even well-prepared candidates can struggle under pressure.

How to Improve Your Chances of Passing

  • Study for 2–3 months (100–150 hours total).
  • Use practice exams that mimic the real case-based questions.
  • Review family therapy models until you can apply them in scenarios.
  • Take full-length timed simulations to build endurance.
  • Focus on ethics and crisis management, which are commonly tested and critical for passing.

Pro Study Tip 📘

Don’t just aim to “pass.” Instead, prepare to score above the passing line by at least 5–10%. That buffer ensures you can handle unexpected questions with confidence.

👉 Check out our MFT Practice Questions + Study Guide — updated for 2025, with 500+ exam-style questions, domain-specific drills, and rationales to help you consistently score above the pass rate.

MFT Exam Pass Rate (2025)

Candidate Group Pass Rate Notes
First-Time Test-Takers ~60–65% Most candidates pass on their first attempt
Repeat Test-Takers ~30–40% Significantly lower pass rate
Overall Moderate Reflects exam difficulty & application focus

 

✅ Final Thought: The MFT exam pass rate is around 60–65% for first-time takers and lower for repeat attempts. While the exam is challenging, a structured study plan with practice exams and domain review can greatly increase your chances of success.

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