Top 5 Misconceptions About the National Psychology Exam
- Amanda Moses Psychology
- Aug 28
- 3 min read
If you’re preparing for the National Psychology Exam (NPE), chances are you’ve heard a few myths floating around from peers, supervisors, or online forums. The NPE has a reputation for being stressful, and misinformation only makes it worse.
Let’s cut through the noise. In this post, I’ll break down the five most common National Psychology Exam myths, what the reality actually looks like, and how you can prepare with confidence.
Myth 1: “The National Psychology Exam is basically a memory test.”
Reality: The NPE isn’t about rote learning or repeating definitions. It’s a scenario-based exam that assesses how you apply knowledge in real-world clinical situations.
Yes, you need to know your theory and guidelines—but memorisation alone won’t get you through. Success comes from practising how to apply concepts to complex, often ambiguous, case vignettes.
Myth 2: “You only need to know the Code of Ethics.”
Reality: Ethics is a major part of the exam, but it’s not the only domain. The NPE covers ethics, assessment, intervention, communication, and professional practice.
Focusing only on the APS Code of Ethics or the Ethical Guidelines will leave big gaps in your preparation. You also need to understand psychometric tools, intervention planning, and how to navigate nuanced professional dilemmas.
P.S. Please note that from December 2025, the APS Code of Ethics will be replaced by AHPRA’s new Code of Conduct for Psychologists. If you’re sitting the exam in February 2026 or later, you’ll need to study the new Code of Conduct and not the APS Code of Ethics.
Myth 3: “If I’m a good clinician, I’ll pass easily.”
Reality: Being a competent psychologist doesn’t automatically translate into passing the exam. The NPE tests specific exam-style skills—including identifying the “best” option among several plausible answers.
Even great clinicians can stumble if they don’t practise exam-style reasoning. That’s why using NPE practice questions and mock exams is essential, even if you’ve been in the field for a while. (You can explore my practice question sets individually, or access them as part of my full NPE Preparation Program—see details below.)
Myth 4: “The exam is designed to fail people.”
Reality: The NPE isn’t a trap. Its purpose is to ensure consistent professional standards across Australia. While the pass mark is high (70%), the exam isn’t intentionally unfair.
Most failures happen because candidates underestimate the scope of the curriculum or focus too narrowly on one area. A structured study plan and targeted practice can make all the difference.
Myth 5: “Just rely on the NPE book and you will be fine.”
Reality: The well-known National Psychology Exam study book can be a helpful resource—but it’s not enough on its own. The book only covers a fraction of the curriculum, and not in depth enough to be your sole study source. u.
The NPE is scenario-based, meaning you’ll need to apply knowledge to complex case vignettes and choose between several plausible answers.
To prepare effectively, you’ll need:
Familiarity with the curriculum domains
Practice applying theory to clinical scenarios
Exposure to exam-style multiple-choice reasoning
A structured study plan that goes beyond passive reading
Final Thoughts
The National Psychology Exam can feel daunting, but many of the fears surrounding it are based on misconceptions. By focusing on exam-style preparation, understanding the breadth of the curriculum, and practising your application skills, you’ll walk into exam day with more clarity and confidence.
Ready to Prepare with Confidence?
If you want structured support, my National Psychology Exam Preparation Course is designed to give you everything you need:
Hundreds of practice questions with detailed rationales
Comprehensive coverage of each curriculum domain
Study strategies tailored to the NPE format
Updates for the 2026 exam changes at no extra cost
A Note on Upcoming NPE Curriculum Changes
It’s important to remember that the National Psychology Exam curriculum has been updated. These changes will take effect from the February 2026 exam onwards. If you’re sitting the exam before then, you’ll still be assessed under the current curriculum. But if your exam is scheduled after February 2026, make sure your study materials reflect the new framework.
My NPE Prep Course will be fully updated to cover these changes, so you can study with confidence knowing you’re preparing for the right version of the exam.
