Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I register for the FCS exam?
A: Information on registering for the FCS exam can be found on the AAFCS web site – http://www.aafcs.org/CredentialingCenter/Texas.asp.

Q: Is there a study guide for the FCS exam?
A: A study guide is located on the AAFCS website, http://www.aafcs.org/CredentialingCenter/Texas.asp. Review of this study guide and completion of the sample examination items will help you assess your readiness for taking the National Family and Consumer Sciences Examination.

Q: Is there a practice test available for the FCS exam?
A: AAFCS provides a short sample of examination items on their web site. It is not intended, however, to serve as a study mechanism, but instead to familiarize candidates with the format, style and structure of the items on the tests.

Q: How do I prepare or study for the FCS exam?
A: First, it is helpful to correlate the standards covered in the exam to the TEKS from each of the seven occupational courses. Next, look over the correlated TEKS and decide which area(s) you feel you need to study the most. For those areas read the chapters in the reference books. Once you have read these chapters, carefully read the "Chapter Highlights" from all the remaining chapters. If you have recently graduated or are still completing your baccalaureate degree, review your course outlines, notes and other materials that relate to the content of the examination.

Q: What topics/information is covered on the FCS exam?
A: The Family and Consumer Sciences Certified Composite Examination is comprised of questions relevant to all 8 Standards. The FCS – Human Development and Family Studies Specialist Examination, or "HDFS Examination," is comprised of questions relevant to Standards 1, 2, and 3. The FCS – Hospitality, Nutrition, and Food Science Specialist Examination, or "HNFS Examination, is comprised of questions relevant to Standards 1, 4, and 5.

Q: What test should I take?
A: Information regarding the different tests and what should be taken can be found on the TEA web site under Career and Technical Education Requirements, Career and Technical Education, http://tea.texas.gov/Texas_Educators/Certification/Career_and_Technical_Education_(CTE)/Career_and_Technical_Education/

Q: Are the Curriculum Center for Family and Consumer Sciences reference books (used to study for the exam) available anywhere other than the Curriculum Center for Family and Consumer Sciences?
A: The Curriculum Center for Family and Consumer Sciences is the producer and sole source provider of the following reference books included in the list of resources that may be used in preparation for the exam: Services for Older Adults; Child Care and Guidance, Management, and Services; Food Production, Management, and Services; Hospitality Services; Institutional Maintenance Management and Services; Textile and Apparel Production, Management, and Services; and Housing, Furnishings, and Equipment Production Management, and Services.

Q: Where can I take the FCS exam?
A: Candidates may take the examinations (FCS, FCS - HDFS, or FCS – HNFS) at a Schroeder Measurement Technologies, Inc. (SMT) computer-based testing center - at the location most convenient to the candidate's geographical area. Locations are located here: www.isoqualitytesting.com.

Q: When can I take the FCS exam?
A: FCS - HDFS, or FCS - HNFS examinations may only be taken during the authorized examination periods or windows. Please note the following examination schedule and associated deadlines: