Two new initiatives have been introduced to increase access to the Health Services Executive® (HSE®) Qualification while supporting the continued growth of qualified leaders across the long-term care continuum. These initiatives reduce barriers related to timing and cost, helping qualified candidates progress more efficiently through the HSE credentialing process while maintaining NAB's rigorous standards.
HSE® Education Pathway Expands Exam Access
Beginning in Spring 2026, eligible students enrolled in NAB-accredited HSE® programs will be able to complete all four required HSE examinations - CORE, Nursing Home Administration (NHA), Residential Care/Assisted Living (RCAL), and Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) - before graduation when applying via the HSE Ready track.
Students who are within three months of graduation, as verified by their program director, or who have graduated within the previous three months, may apply through the HSE Ready track. Once all supporting documentation has been received, candidates will be instructed to complete all required examinations with HSE-NAB serving as the approving jurisdiction.
Following graduation, candidates must submit an official transcript to finalize their HSE application. By completing the examination process before entering the workforce, graduates can begin pursuing state licensure as HSE Ready Track candidates immediately after graduation.
New Exam Fee Incentives Increase Access to the HSE® Credential
Effective July 1, 2026, NAB will introduce two exam fee incentive programs designed to reduce financial barriers for eligible HSE candidates.
Licensed Nursing Home Administrators pursuing the HSE Qualification through NAB's temporary Career Pathway program will receive a one-time 50% reduction in fees for both the RCAL and HCBS examinations. This incentive will be available for three years starting July 1, 2026.
Graduates of NAB-accredited HSE programs who completed their degree within the previous five years will receive a one-time 100% fee reduction for both the RCAL and HCBS examinations. This incentive is a permanent benefit available through the HSE Education Pathway.
For both programs, the fee reduction applies once per examination, per candidate. Standard examination fees apply to any retakes. The incentives apply only to the RCAL and HCBS examinations and do not apply to the CORE, NHA, or combination examinations. Previously paid examination fees are not eligible for reimbursement.