The International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) exam is a highly respected credential for lactation professionals. The exam is offered twice a year, in the spring and fall. The 2025 exam dates have been announced, and registration is now open. If you are considering becoming an IBCLC, now is the time to start preparing.
The IBCLC exam is a challenging but rewarding experience. The exam covers a wide range of topics, including lactation physiology, breastfeeding management, and counseling skills. To prepare for the exam, you will need to study diligently and gain experience working with breastfeeding families. There are a number of resources available to help you prepare for the exam, including study guides, online courses, and practice exams. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of success on the IBCLC exam.
Becoming an IBCLC is a great way to advance your career in lactation. IBCLCs are in high demand, and they can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practice. If you are passionate about helping breastfeeding families, becoming an IBCLC is a great way to make a difference in the lives of others.
How to Register for the IBCLC Exam in 2025
Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Requirements
Before you can register for the exam, you must meet the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) eligibility requirements. These requirements include:
- Holding a bachelor’s degree or higher in a health-related field
- Completing an IBLCE-approved lactation consultant training program
- Having at least 1,000 hours of supervised clinical experience in lactation consulting within the past five years
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
To register for the exam, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Official transcripts from your bachelor’s degree program
- A certificate of completion from your IBLCE-approved lactation consultant training program
- A log of your supervised clinical experience in lactation consulting
Submitting Your Documents
You can submit your documents online, by mail, or by fax. The IBLCE provides detailed instructions on how to submit your documents on its website.
Step 3: Register for the Exam
Once you have submitted your documents and they have been approved, you can register for the exam. The exam is offered twice a year, in May and October. You can register for the exam online or by mail.
The registration fee is $350. You can pay the fee online by credit card or by mail by check or money order.
Step 4: Prepare for the Exam
Once you have registered for the exam, you should start preparing for it. The IBLCE provides a variety of study materials, including a study guide, practice questions, and online courses. You should also review the IBLCE’s Code of Professional Conduct and Scope of Practice.
Step 5: Take the Exam
The IBCLC exam is a computer-based exam that is administered at testing centers around the world. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. You will have 3 hours to complete the exam.
Step 6: Receive Your Results
You will receive your exam results within 4-6 weeks of taking the exam. The IBLCE will send you a letter that will let you know if you passed or failed the exam.
If you passed the exam, you will be issued an IBCLC certificate. Your certificate will be valid for five years.
Study Guide and Resources for the 2025 IBCLC Exam
1. Official IBCLC Exam Study Guide
The official IBCLC exam study guide is the most comprehensive resource available for preparing for the exam. It includes information on the exam format, content outline, and sample questions. You can purchase the study guide from the IBLCE website.
2. IBCLC Exam Preparation Courses
Several organizations offer IBCLC exam preparation courses. These courses can provide you with structured guidance and support as you study for the exam. They typically cover the exam content outline in detail and provide practice questions and mock exams.
3. Online Resources
There are many online resources available to help you prepare for the IBCLC exam. These include websites, blogs, and forums where you can find information on the exam, study tips, and practice questions. Some websites even offer free online practice exams.
4. Recommended Reading Materials
In addition to the official study guide, there are several recommended reading materials that can help you prepare for the IBCLC exam. These materials cover a wide range of topics related to lactation and breastfeeding, including anatomy and physiology, nutrition, counseling, and research.
| Topic | Recommended Reading Materials |
|---|---|
| Anatomy and Physiology |
|
| Nutrition |
|
| Counseling |
|
| Research |
|
Exam Format and Content 2025 IBCLC
Exam Format
The IBCLC exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions, which must be completed in a 3-hour 45-minute time frame. The exam is divided into four sections, each covering a different aspect of lactation consulting.
Exam Content
The exam content is based on the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) Task Analysis, which outlines the knowledge and skills required of an IBCLC. The content is divided into five core domains:
- Lactation Counseling and Management
- Anatomy and Physiology of Lactation
- Management of Common Breastfeeding Problems
- Professional Practice and Ethics
4. Breastfeeding Promotion and Education
Lactation Counseling and Management
This domain covers topics such as prenatal and postnatal counseling, breastfeeding assessment, and the promotion of breastfeeding as a public health issue.
Anatomy and Physiology of Lactation
This domain covers the anatomical structures and physiological processes involved in lactation.
Management of Common Breastfeeding Problems
This domain covers the causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for various breastfeeding problems, such as nipple pain, mastitis, and low milk production.
Breastfeeding Promotion and Education
This domain covers the principles and practices of breastfeeding promotion and education, including strategies for reaching diverse populations and supporting breastfeeding communities.
Professional Practice and Ethics
This domain covers the legal and ethical responsibilities of IBCLCs, as well as the principles of evidence-based practice and quality improvement.
Exam Locations and Scheduling for 2025 IBCLC
The International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) exam is offered several times throughout the year at various locations worldwide. The 2025 exam dates have not yet been announced, but they will likely be similar to the 2024 schedule, which includes:
Exam Locations
The IBCLC exam is offered in over 80 countries and territories worldwide. The specific locations vary each year, but they typically include major cities in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.
Scheduling
The IBCLC exam is typically offered twice a year, in May and November. The exact dates and times vary depending on the location, but they are typically held on a weekday.
Exam Format
The IBCLC exam is a computer-based, multiple-choice exam. It consists of 200 questions, which must be completed within 3 hours and 15 minutes.
Exam Fees
The exam fee is set by the IBLCE and varies depending on the country or region. In the United States, the exam fee is $325.
Exam Preparation
It is important to prepare thoroughly for the IBCLC exam. The IBLCE recommends that candidates study for at least 200 hours, focusing on the following topics:
| Human lactation |
| Anatomy and physiology of the breast |
| Lactation management |
| Counseling and support |
| Research and evidence-based practice |
Proctored Examination Requirements for the IBCLC Exam 2025
Identification Requirements
Candidates must present two forms of government-issued identification with their signatures and photographs. Passports, driver’s licenses, and national identity cards are all acceptable.
Personal Belongings
Candidates are not permitted to bring any personal belongings into the testing center, except for a timing device and a water bottle. All other items, including electronic devices, must be left in a designated secure area.
Dress Code
Candidates are expected to wear appropriate attire that is comfortable and allows for ease of movement. Athletic shoes and loose-fitting clothing are recommended.
Test Duration and Break
The IBCLC Exam is a three-hour, 40-minute exam. Candidates are permitted one 15-minute break during the exam, which must be taken at a designated time.
Exam Format
The IBCLC Exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. Questions cover a range of topics related to lactation, breastfeeding, and human milk.
Testing Environment
Exams are administered in a secure and confidential setting. Candidates will be placed in individual testing booths equipped with computers and headsets.
Technology Requirements
Candidates must provide their own wireless headphones or earbuds that meet the following requirements:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth capability | Must be able to establish a wireless connection with the computer in the testing center. |
| Sound quality | Must provide clear and intelligible sound reproduction. |
| Microphone | Not required. |
| Battery life | Must have sufficient battery life to last the duration of the exam. |
| Ear fit | Must fit comfortably and securely in the candidate’s ears. |
Accommodations for the 2025 IBCLC Exam
The IBCLC exam is offered with accommodations to ensure fair and equitable testing opportunities for all candidates with disabilities.
Documentation of Disability
To request accommodations, candidates must submit documentation from a qualified professional that verifies the disability and provides recommendations for specific accommodations.
Accommodation Options
Available accommodations include:
- Extended time (up to double the standard time)
- Assistive technology (e.g., screen readers, magnifiers)
- Separate testing room
- Scribe or reader
Procedure for Requesting Accommodations
To request accommodations, candidates must:
- Submit the “Request for Accommodations Form” at least 90 days before the exam date.
- Provide supporting documentation of the disability.
- Attend a pre-testing consultation with IBLCE staff to discuss accommodation needs.
- Submit your application for certification.
- Pay the certification fee.
- Complete the required continuing education hours.
- Maintain your certification by renewing it every five years.
- Formal coursework
- Workshops and webinars
- Self-study with approved materials
- Presentations and publications
- April 18, 2025
- September 19, 2025
- December 12, 2025
Confidentiality
All accommodation requests and supporting documentation are kept strictly confidential.
Accommodation Decisions
IBLCE will review the documentation and make a decision regarding the requested accommodations. Candidates will be notified of the decision in writing.
| Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
| Extended Time | Up to double the standard testing time, with breaks as needed |
| Assistive Technology | Use of specialized hardware or software to assist with testing |
| Separate Testing Room | A quiet and distraction-free testing environment |
| Scribe or Reader | A person to assist with reading or writing the exam |
Exam Results and Certification Timeline 2025
1. Exam Registration Deadline
The registration deadline for the 2025 IBCLC exam is [date].
2. Exam Date
The 2025 IBCLC exam will be held on [date].
3. Exam Results Release Date
Exam results will be released approximately [number] weeks after the exam date.
4. Certification Timeline
Once you pass the exam, you will need to complete the following steps to become a certified IBCLC:
9. Continuing Education Requirements
To maintain your IBCLC certification, you must complete the following continuing education requirements every five years:
| Category | Hours Required |
|---|---|
| Lactation Management | 25 |
| Business Management | 10 |
| Research | 5 |
| Other (e.g., advocacy, education) | 5 |
A total of 45 hours of continuing education are required every five years.
Continuing Education and Recertification for the IBCLC Exam 2025
The International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) requires IBCLCs to complete continuing education (CE) and recertification to maintain their credentials. Here are the details for 2025:
CE Requirements for Recertification
To maintain IBCLC certification, IBCLCs must earn 75 CE credits every 5 years.
Types of CE Activities
Acceptable CE activities include:
Recertification Timeline
The recertification cycle runs from January 1st, 2021, to December 31st, 2025. IBCLCs must complete their CE requirements and recertify by December 31st, 2025.
CE Credit Tracking
IBCLCs are responsible for tracking their CE credits. The IBLCE provides an online CE Tracking System (CTS) for this purpose.
Fees for Recertification
The fee for recertification is $125 for IBLCE members and $200 for non-members.
Exam for Recertification
IBCLCs must pass a recertification exam to maintain their certification. The exam is offered twice a year, in June and November.
Exam Preparation
The IBLCE provides a variety of resources to help IBCLCs prepare for the recertification exam, including study guides and practice exams.
Exam Format
The recertification exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. Candidates have 3 hours to complete the exam.
Exam Passing Score
To pass the recertification exam, candidates must earn a score of 70% or higher.
Exam Results
Exam results are typically released within 4-6 weeks of the exam date.
IBCLC Exam Dates 2025
The International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) has announced the exam dates for 2025. The exam will be offered on three dates:
The application deadline for the April exam is March 10, 2025. The application deadline for the September exam is August 11, 2025. The application deadline for the December exam is November 10, 2025.
People Also Ask About IBCLC Exam Dates 2025
What is the best way to prepare for the IBCLC exam?
The IBLCE recommends that candidates use a variety of resources to prepare for the exam, including study guides, practice exams, and online courses.
What is the passing score for the IBCLC exam?
The passing score for the IBCLC exam is 70%. Candidates must correctly answer 70% of the multiple-choice questions and 80% of the case study questions.
How long does it take to get my IBCLC certification?
The IBCLC certification process takes approximately 12-18 months to complete. Candidates must first complete the Lactation Consultant Training Program, which is typically offered through colleges and universities. After completing the training program, candidates must pass the IBCLC exam.
