Results, Pass/Fail Scoring, and Certificate Availability
Key Takeaways
- The CCA exam has 105 questions, with 90 scored questions and 15 pretest questions, and a 2-hour testing time.
- AHIMA reports certification exam results on a 100 to 400 scale, with 300 or higher required to pass.
- There is no penalty for guessing, so every question should be answered before time expires.
- Candidates who pass should allow up to 48 business hours for the certificate to appear in the AHIMA CEU Center.
What the Score Means
The CCA exam contains 105 total questions. Ninety are scored and 15 are pretest questions used for exam development. Candidates have 2 hours, so pacing matters even when code books are allowed.
AHIMA certification exam scores are reported on a 100 to 400 scale. A scaled score of 300 or higher is passing. The passing score is set through subject-matter expert work and approval by AHIMA's certification governance process.
A scaled score is not the same thing as a raw percentage. Do not try to convert 300 into a percent correct. Use the score report to decide whether you passed and, if unsuccessful, where to focus retake preparation.
During the Exam
There is no penalty for guessing. Answer every question before time expires. Current AHIMA scheduling instructions say that for CCA exams scheduled May 1, 2026 or later, candidates can navigate back and forth between questions. Always follow the current ATT and exam instructions shown at the test center.
After the Exam
AHIMA states that candidates receive exam results after completion of the exam process. Scores are not released by phone, email, or fax, and AHIMA does not release scores to third parties.
If you pass, allow up to 48 business hours for the certificate to be available in the AHIMA CEU Center. Keep your account information current so the credential record, certificate, and future recertification notices are tied to the right profile.
Interpreting Outcomes
| Outcome | Practical meaning |
|---|---|
| 300 or higher | Passing score; monitor certificate availability |
| Below 300 | Not passing; submit a new application and fee when eligible |
| Weak domain | Use it to focus retake study, not to dispute every missed item |
A candidate receives a scaled score of 299 on the CCA exam. What does this mean?
Why should a CCA candidate answer every question before time expires?
A candidate passes the CCA exam on Monday and does not immediately see a certificate in the AHIMA CEU Center. What is the best interpretation?