The Certified Genetic Counselor (CGC®) credential is granted by the American Board of Genetic Counseling, Inc. (ABGC) to genetic counselors who meet established standards for professional practice through documentation of specialized training and who receive a passing score on the ABGC Certification Examination.
The primary qualification to sit for the examination is a master’s degree in genetic counseling from a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC). ABGC employs Prometric, a testing company to assist with test development and statistical analysis which provides a reliable and valid examination.
ABGC certification is valid for five years. After five years, each Diplomate is required to recertify to maintain the CGC® credential through continuing education or by taking the exam.
Certification for genetic counselors demonstrates accountability to the public through advanced training in medical genetics and counseling to guide and support patients. Additionally, the process of achieving and maintaining certification helps to ensure that the professional is continually improving and refining skills. The continuing education process improves responsibility, commitment and motivation to the profession.
Most employers require their genetic counselors to be certified, and some insurance companies will require people to have genetic counseling by a CGC prior to genetic testing as a condition of coverage. Additionally, over half of the states in the U.S. require a license to practice. The CGC provides assurances to the public, employers and colleagues that the certificate holder has the knowledge, skills and expertise to enter professional practice.
Exam Pass Rates
| Exam Year |
Total Test Takers |
First Time Test Takers |
Pass Rate |
| 2020 |
498 |
421 |
85.0% |
| 2021 |
518 |
432 |
80.1% |
| 2022 |
629 |
491 |
82.1% |
| 2023 |
663 |
502 |
70.3% |
| 2024 |
752 |
561 |
77.2% |
Candidate Guide
ABGC offers a comprehensive Candidate Guide that includes all the information a prospective candidate will need about preparing for the exam, applying and registering for the exam, answers frequently asked questions about exam day, how exam scores are calcuated, and more.
Download the Candidate Guide [PDF]
Practice Exam
The Practice Exam consists of 100 questions that are mapped to the current CGC Content Outline. The exam is delivered on the same test driver as the CGC exam, providing candidates the opportunity to use the same technology and platform that they will encounter when taking the CGC exam. Candidates are allowed 120 minutes to answer the 100 questions, and receive an additional 15 minutes to go back and review any items of their choice.
Purchase the Practice Exam