The RPSGT Exam is computer-based and consists of 175 multiple choice questions. 150 of these questions count toward a candidate’s score, while the other 25 are pretest questions used for future exams.
Time Allotted: 3-hours.
Cost: $450, due at the time of application. You may pay using Visa, Mastercard, American Express, money order, or cashier’s check.
General Knowledge: Medical terminology, verbal and written communication skills, patient confidentiality, safety, ethics, basic math skills and calculations, computer skills, basic patient care, and emergency procedures.
What is the BRPT?
The Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists is an independent, nonprofit certification board that provides the Registered Polysomnographic Technologist Exam. The RPSGT exam is the leading, internationally recognized credential in sleep studies.
What is the purpose of the RPSGT Exam?
The purpose of the RPSGT Exam is to test the knowledge of professionals performing polysomnography and related therapeutic interventions.
Who is eligible to take the exam?
There are five eligibility pathways for the exam:
- Clinical Experience: Candidates must have a minimum of 1,638 hours of experience in the field. Candidates will have also completed a STAR-designated Self-Study education program.
- Healthcare Credential: Candidates must have a minimum of 546 hours of experience, and another healthcare credential.
- CAAHEP/CoARC Student: Graduates of CAAHEP or CoARC-accredited polysomnography education program.
- Focused Training: Candidates must have a minimum of 819 hours of experience in the field. Candidates must have also completed a STAR-designated focused education, or a combination of Self-Study and Focused 2 education.
- International Option: This option is for international students who have a minimum of 546 hours of experience in the field.
How do I register?
You can fill out the application online at the BRPT website: https://www.brpt.org/apply/, or by mail.
Once you are approved to take the exam, you will receive an exam authorization email within 7-10 business days.
*Important: If you are filling out and sending a paper application, be sure to fill out everything to its entirety in original ink.
If your application is incomplete for any reason, it will be sent back, and you will be charged a $50 rejection fee.
How do I set a date to take my exam?
Before you schedule your exam, first-time applicants must create a Pearson VUE web account.
When scheduling your exam, you must have your candidate ID number and the exam name.
*Important: It’s important to note that testing times and locations are given on a, first come, first serve, basis.
After you schedule your exam, you will be sent an email that contains all relevant information, including: Your test date, time, location, phone number to the testing center, and directions.
What does the RPSGT test on?
The RPSGT Exam is broken up into 4 domains, which can then be broken down into tasks:
- Domain 1: Clinical Overview, Education, Patient Support – 17.3%
- Task A – Patient Information and Clinical Assessment 42-58%
- Task B – Patient and caregiver education 23-38%
- Task C – Support and compliance 15-23%
- Domain 2: Sleep Study Preparation and Performance – 29.3%
- Task A – Technical preparation – 25-34%
- Task B – Calibrations – 7-11%
- Task C – Procedures and practice guidelines – 27-36%
- Task D – Identify, respond, and document – 30-39%
- Domain 3: Scoring, Reporting, and Data Verification – 25.3%
- Task A – Adult PSG – 63-68%
- Task B – Pediatric and infant PSG – 16-21%
- Task C – Report generation – 13-18%
- Domain 4: Therapeutic Treatment and Intervention – 28%
- Task A – PAP therapy (CPAP, bilevel, ASV, NIPPV) – 83-93%
- Task B – Oxygen therapy – 5-10%
- Task C – Alternative therapies – 2-7%
Where will I be taking the exam?
The exam is given at Pearson VUE testing centers. To find a location closest to you, you can visit the Pearson website at: www.Pearson VUE.com/brpt.
What should I have on the day of my exam?
On the day of your exam, you should arrive at least 30-minutes early. You will need to have 2 forms of ID with you: a valid, government-issued photo ID, and a form of ID that does not have to include a photo, but should be signed, (examples: a student or work ID, or a credit/debit card).
You should also have your exam confirmation notice.
You are not permitted to bring study material, or electronics (e.g., phone, or calculator, etc.)
What is the passing score for the exam?
The passing score for the RPSGT Exam varies depending on location.
Can I retake the exam if I fail?
Yes. If you fail the exam, you may retake it. However, you will need to fill out a new application and include a copy of your BLS/CPR.
What if I’m not prepared to take the exam? Can I cancel it and be refunded?
Yes, you may cancel the exam if you’re not prepared for it and be refunded up to $400. There is an administration fee of $50. In order to receive your refund, you must cancel your application before your exam window expires.
What if I don’t cancel my exam in time? Will I be charged?
Unfortunately, the answer is yes. If you don’t formally cancel your exam, you will be charged a $100 “No Show” fee.
How Can I Prepare for the RPSGT Test?
That’s a great question. We’ve broken down the answer into three parts.
- Do yourself a favor and study. Do not walk in unprepared. We have recommended prep materials below, but that only helps if you actually try. Plus, studying is actually proven to be the best antidote to test anxiety.
- Take care of yourself. Make sure you’re eating well, exercising, and sleeping. All of these things are scientifically linked to brain performance. If you take care of your body, you’ll be helping your grades.
- Get a study guide or set of flashcards. Some people study better a certain way. Find your study strengths and make the most of them. We’ve tried to make it easy for you by tracking down the best study guide and flashcard set for your exam. Below you’ll see links to both!