RSSA Final Exam
After successful completion of the 5-module online self-study RSSA Program, you will be eligible to register and take the RSSA Final Exam to obtain your RSSA designation. By passing the exam, you demonstrate that you have the knowledge and competency to provide Social Security income planning assistance to your clients. The exam must be taken while having an active membership with NARSSA, typically valid for 12 months after initial enrollment. Membership renewal after this time period regains access to the RSSA Program, RSSA Final Exam, RSSA Roadmap, and after passing the exam, RSSA Resources.
- The final exam is held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month.
- You must register 72 hours prior to the exam day, by midnight on Friday before a Tuesday exam.
- You will be prompted to register with NARSSA once you complete Module V.
- You will then be prompted to register with the proctoring company where you will pick the time of your exam.
- A practice exam for each part of the exam will be available once you register for the final exam.
- The final exam is closed-book, but you may use the RSSA Final Exam Reference Document while taking the exam. It can be found through the link when you sign up for the exam or in the Announcements section in your Member Center. We encourage you to be familiar with the information that is on the reference document.
- You may use a basic four-function calculator or your computer calculator. You may not use a phone calculator.
- You have a year from your sign-up date to complete the modules and take the final exam.
- Click here to learn what to expect from ProctorU on exam day.
Exam Format Details
Please note that Part I and Part II of the RSSA Final Exam are taken consecutively on the same day.
Part I
- 80 multiple-choice questions on material covered in Modules I-IV.
- Requires a passing grade of 75% (60 questions must be answered correctly).
- 2 hours to complete Part I.
Part II
- 2 Social Security case studies analyzed using RSSA Roadmap software, as in Module V.
- 20 multiple-choice questions for each case study.
- Requires a passing grade of 75% (15 questions for each case study must be answered correctly).
- 2 hours to complete Part II.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the test offered?
The RSSA Final Exam is held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. You'll be able to schedule your exam time and date after completing the Module V Exam. The exam is online proctored.
How does online proctoring work?
You will take the exam online from the convenience of your office or home computer. A live proctor administers the exam through ProctorU.
When and how can I register?
You must register 72 hours prior to the exam day, by midnight on Friday before a Tuesday exam. This becomes available after passing the Module V Exam. Registration must be completed both with NARSSA and ProctorU. You will be prompted to register with NARSSA after completing Module V. You will then be prompted to register and schedule your exam time with ProctorU. Instructions are available throughout. It is essential that registration is completed in both portals.
What is the exam format?
The exam consists of two parts. For each part, 2 hours are allowed, with an optional 10-minute break between Part I and Part II. Each part is scored independently, with a passing grade of 75%.
Is the exam open or closed-book?
The exam is closed-book, but you may use the provided RSSA Final Exam Reference Document during the exam. This may be found in the Member Center under Announcements. We recommend becoming familiar with this document while studying. Additionally, you can use a basic four-function calculator or your computer calculator and scratch paper.
Is there an exam fee?
If you purchased the RSSA Program package, your exam proctoring fee was included (with one complimentary re-take of the exam, if needed). If you purchased the RSSA Education alone, there is an exam proctoring fee which you will be prompted to pay at the time of registration.
How should I prepare for the exam?
Practice final exams become available after registration is completed. Additionally, review all module exams and practice exams, as the final exam questions are similar. Review areas of weakness by re-reading the module text.
What happens after I pass the exam?
You will be a Registered Social Security Analyst, ready to better serve your existing clients as well as find new clients. You will gain access to the extensive RSSA resources (including marketing materials, educational webinars, and other Social Security materials) and proudly display your RSSA credential.
Are there any breaks during the exam?
There is an optional 10-minute break between Part I and Part II of the exam.
What happens if I fail the exam?
If you do not pass Part I, you cannot proceed to take Part II of the exam. You may re-register and take the exam again at a future scheduled exam date. If you do not pass Part II, you may re-register to take only Part II again at a future schedule exam date.
Are Part I and Part II of the RSSA Final Exam taken on separate days?
No, Part I and Part II of the RSSA Final Exam are designed to be taken consecutively on the same day. After completing Part I, candidates will proceed to Part II of the exam, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of their knowledge and skills in one sitting.