COVID-19 Announcement Archive
We will continue to update this page with new information about the effects of COVID-19 as needed. If you are unable to reach us by phone, please email allie@conferencedev.oddjar.com.
Updated July 22, 2020
We’re pleased to announce that testing has resumed in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. While availability is still limited in some areas, we continue to work with Pearson VUE to increase capacity.
Please continue to visit this page for updates on the latest available information. If you have any questions, please contact us at allie@conferencedev.oddjar.com.
Face Mask Policy
The following policy is currently in effect at ALL Pearson VUE testing locations:
- Candidates are expected to wear a face mask for the duration of their exam experience, with the exception of briefly removing face masks during the check-in process for identity verification and inspection.
- If a candidate refuses to wear a face mask, the candidate will be denied testing services and treated as absent.
- If a candidate refuses to wear a face mask properly (the WHO and CDC define as fully covering the nose and mouth), the candidate will be denied testing services and treated as absent.
Scheduling tips:
- For the quickest results, check availability through your online Pearson VUE account at pearsonvue.com/theconference. It’s important to note that you can click through to multiple testing centers, checking availability from the nearest to farthest test center to your location. In addition, you can click through each calendar month at each test center.
- When possible, check for appointments multiple times per day, as all appointments are first come, first served. Pearson VUE is adding more appointments whenever possible and appointments are often canceled or rescheduled by other candidates, so availability can change often.
- Lock in the best date and if something else becomes available, change it. Select the best available appointment option and reschedule/cancel as many times as you need to without any penalty (as long as you do so at least 24 hours prior to your appointment).
- Consider traveling to test centers in other areas. While we understand traveling may not be ideal, this option may allow for more appointment options. Please check with travel restrictions in the area prior to scheduling.
For additional information, please review the FAQ below.
Updated July 1, 2020
(Original post 6/25/2020)
After a brief test center closure, Conference exams (NBE, SBE, LRR, etc.) were deemed essential by Pearson VUE thereby allowing testing to resume as of April 8, 2020. Test centers continue to reopen to all exam programs as allowed by local government mandates. While exam availability may still be limited in some areas, The Conference and Pearson VUE continue to work together toward safely increasing exam accessibility during the COVID-19 pandemic. While some test centers are still operating at reduced capacity, we are pleased to announce that by July 15, 2020, candidates will see increased capacity, with pertinent health and safety measures employed, in the following states:
- Alaska
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Missouri
- Nebraska
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Texas
- Utah
- Wisconsin
Please continue to visit this page for updates on the latest available information. If you have any questions, please contact us at allie@conferencedev.oddjar.com.
Updated June 25, 2020
After a brief test center closure, Conference exams (NBE, SBE, LRR, etc.) were deemed essential by Pearson VUE thereby allowing testing to resume as of April 8, 2020. Test centers continue to reopen to all exam programs as allowed by local government mandates. While exam availability may still be limited in some areas, The Conference and Pearson VUE continue to work together toward safely increasing exam accessibility during the COVID-19 pandemic. While some test centers are still operating at reduced capacity, we are pleased to announce that by July 15, 2020, candidates will see increased capacity, with pertinent health and safety measures employed, in the following states:
- Alaska
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Missouri
- Nebraska
- North Dakota
- Ohio (as of 7/1/2020)
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Texas
- Utah
- Wisconsin
Please continue to visit this page for updates on the latest available information. If you have any questions, please contact us at allie@conferencedev.oddjar.com.
Face Mask Policy
The following policy is currently in effect at ALL Pearson VUE testing locations:
- Candidates are expected to wear a face mask for the duration of their exam experience, with the exception of briefly removing face masks during the check-in process for identity verification and inspection.
- If a candidate refuses to wear a face mask, the candidate will be denied testing services and treated as absent.
- If a candidate refuses to wear a face mask properly (the WHO and CDC define as fully covering the nose and mouth), the candidate will be denied testing services and treated as absent.
Scheduling tips:
- For the quickest results, check availability through your online Pearson VUE account at pearsonvue.com/theconference. It’s important to note that you can click through to multiple testing centers, checking availability from the nearest to farthest test center to your location. In addition, you can click through each calendar month at each test center.
- When possible, check for appointments multiple times per day, as all appointments are first come, first served. Pearson VUE is adding more appointments whenever possible and appointments are often canceled or rescheduled by other candidates, so availability can change often.
- Lock in the best date and if something else becomes available, change it. Select the best available appointment option and reschedule/cancel as many times as you need to without any penalty (as long as you do so at least 24 hours prior to your appointment).
- Consider traveling to test centers in other areas. While we understand traveling may not be ideal, this option may allow for more appointment options. Please check with travel restrictions in the area prior to scheduling.
Application & Payment Status
Candidates may email allie@conferencedev.oddjar.com to inquire about the status of their application and fees for any Conference exam. Please note that candidates who file a Chargeback through PayPal should expect delays in processing and will be subject to additional fees prior to testing.
For additional information, please review the FAQ below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my exam was canceled?
If your exam was canceled, you will be able to reschedule for a date on or after the test center reopening date. It’s important to note that this is a very fluid situation, but please know that the health and safety of exam candidates and test center employees are at the forefront of these decisions being made by Pearson VUE.
We understand this is a very difficult time and we do not want to add any additional burden to you, so The Conference will work to ensure candidates will have the opportunity to test. Exam authorizations (applications that are near their expiration date) will be extended as needed at no additional cost. This will be done automatically as needed, so there is no need to contact The Conference.
How will this affect my licensure/apprenticeship deadline?
We understand that you may have specific deadlines with the state board where you are seeking licensure and the delay of testing may affect that. We have been in communication with state licensing boards, so they should be aware of the test center delays. It’s important to note that this is not just within the funeral service profession, but within all professions that require exams, so the effects are being felt worldwide. We have heard of many licensing boards offering extensions or providing temporary paths during this time. We recommend checking with your state board for the latest licensure updates. A list of all member boards, including contact information, can be found on our website.
What can I do while I wait for my exam?
While we thank you for your patience during these unprecedented times, we are hopeful that you are able to use this time to prepare for your upcoming exam. We offer a couple of tools to help guide you during your studies:
Order The National Board Exam Study Guide
Order The Practice National Board Exam
Why can’t I take the exam remotely?
There are many factors that affect a testing program’s ability to offer remote proctoring. In order to uphold the standards of high-stakes licensure exams such as the NBE and SBE, exams must be given in a uniform, secure testing environment. As things change, we will provide updates on our website, so please continue to check back.
COVID-19 Announcement Archives
To reschedule your exam, please contact Pearson VUE:
Online: pearsonvue.com/theconference (available 24/7)
Call Center: 1-800-709-0180 (available M – F, 7am – 7pm CT)
Please be advised that the Pearson VUE call center is experiencing higher than normal wait times for candidates to speak to a representative. While the call volume is high, we do recommend utilizing the online scheduling tools whenever possible.
We will continue to update this page with new information about the effect of COVID-19 as needed. If you are unable to reach us by phone, please email info@conferencedev.oddjar.com.
Updated May 29, 2020
As we continue to monitor the effects COVID-19 is having on licensure exams, we wanted to share some important factors to keep in mind regarding your exam.
Scheduling & Appointment Availability
Conference exams (NBE, SBE, LRR, etc.) were deemed essential by Pearson VUE on April 8, so testing has been able to continue since that time. In addition, test centers continue to reopen to all exam programs as allowed by local government mandates. However, appointment availability is currently very limited, especially in areas that are more greatly affected by COVID-19 or that are still under heavy government restrictions.
Test centers are open where they are legally able to do so. However, for the safety of exam candidates and employees, they are all operating under strict social distancing guidelines. These safety measures put their testing capacity at about 50%, which greatly affects the number of exam appointments available nationwide. It’s also important to note that this is typically The Conference’s busiest testing time, which is compounded by the effects of this global pandemic.
Scheduling tips:
- For the quickest results, check availability online at pearsonvue.com/theconference. It’s important to note that you can click through to multiple testing centers, checking availability from the nearest to farthest test center to your location. In addition, you can click through each calendar month at each test center.
- When possible, check for appointments multiple times per day, as all appointments are first come, first serve. Pearson VUE is adding more appointments whenever possible and appointments are often canceled or rescheduled by other candidates, so availability can change often.
- Lock in the best date and if something else becomes available, change it. Select the best available appointment option and reschedule/cancel as many times as you need to without any penalty (as long as you do so at least 24 hours prior to your appointment).
- Consider traveling to test centers in other areas. While we understand traveling may not be ideal, this option may allow for more appointment options. Please check with travel restrictions in the area prior to scheduling.
Face Mask Policy
The following policy is currently in effect at ALL Pearson VUE testing locations:
- Candidates are expected to wear a face mask for the duration of their exam experience, with the exception of briefly removing face masks during the check-in process for identity verification and inspection.
- If a candidate refuses to wear a face mask, the candidate will be denied testing services and treated as absent.
- If a candidate refuses to wear a face mask properly (the WHO and CDC define as fully covering the nose and mouth), the candidate will be denied testing services and treated as absent.
Application & Payment Status
Candidates may email info@conferencedev.oddjar.com to inquire about the status of their application and fees for any Conference exam. Note that candidates who file a Chargeback through PayPal should expect delays in processing and will be subject to additional fees prior to testing.
For more information, please visit the FAQs listed at the bottom of this page.
Thank You,
The Conference
FAQ (May 29, 2020)
Is The Conference office open during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Yes, The Conference office is open available to assist you! Following CDC and Arkansas guidelines, we are working remotely and with limited office access so we appreciate your patience as we process your requests and respond to your questions as quickly as we can. If you have additional questions that aren’t answered here, the quickest way to reach us is through email (info@conferencedev.oddjar.com).
Are Pearson VUE test centers open?
Test centers are open where they are legally able to do so. However, for the safety of exam candidates and employees, they are all operating under strict social distancing guidelines. These safety measures put their testing capacity at about 50%, which greatly affects the number of exam appointments available nationwide. It’s also important to note that this is typically The Conference’s busiest testing time, which is compounded by the effects of this global pandemic.
Can I still apply for an exam?
Yes, we are still accepting and processing exam applications. We encourage you to submit an application if you would like access to scheduling your exam (if eligible). Once you receive an Authorization To Test, you will be in Pearson VUE’s scheduling system. From there, you can schedule your exam depending on availability. You may also continue to check back, rescheduling as needed (at least 24 hours in advance of your exam date).
What will happen to my exam application and payment?
Your exam application and payment will remain on file, so there is no need to take action at this time. Typically, an application expires one year from the payment date, but we are working to extend exam authorizations to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to test. We will extend those authorizations automatically, so there is no need to make a request.
Candidates may email info@conferencedev.oddjar.com to inquire about the status of their application and fees for any Conference exam. Note that candidates who file a Chargeback through PayPal should expect delays in processing and may be subject to additional fees prior to testing.
What if my exam was canceled?
If your exam was canceled, you will be able to reschedule for a date on or after the test center reopening date. It’s important to note that this is a very fluid situation, but please know that the health and safety of exam candidates and test center employees are at the forefront of these decisions being made by Pearson VUE.
We understand this is a very difficult time and we do not want to add any additional burden to you, so The Conference will work to ensure candidates will have the opportunity to test. Exam authorizations (applications that are near their expiration date) will be extended as needed at no additional cost. This will be done automatically as needed, so there is no need to contact The Conference.
How will this affect my licensure/apprenticeship deadline?
We understand that you may have specific deadlines with the state board where you are seeking licensure and the delay of testing may affect that. We have been in communication with state licensing boards, so they should be aware of the test center delays. It’s important to note that this is not just within the funeral service profession, but will all professions that require exams, so the effects are being felt world-wide. We have heard of many licensing boards offering extensions or providing temporary paths during this time. We recommend checking with your state board for the latest licensure updates. A list of all member boards, including contact information, can be found on our website.
What can I do while I wait for my exam?
While we thank you for your patience during these unprecedented times, we are hopeful that you are able to use this time to prepare for your upcoming exam. We offer a couple of tools to help guide you during your studies:
Order The National Board Exam Study Guide
Order The Practice National Board Exam
Why can’t I take the exam remotely?
There are many factors that affect a testing program’s ability to offer remote proctoring. In order to uphold the standards of high-stakes licensure exams such as the NBE and SBE, exams must be given in a uniform, secure testing environment. As things change, we will provide updates on our website, so please continue to check back.
COVID-19 Announcement Archives
To reschedule your exam, please contact Pearson VUE:
Online: pearsonvue.com/theconference (available 24/7)
Call Center: 1-800-709-0180 (available M – F, 7am – 7pm CT)
Updated May 11, 2020
Dear exam candidates:
As mentioned in the post below (April 29, 2020), Pearson VUE is working to provide a safe and sanitary testing environment for exam candidates as test centers continue to reopen during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Pearson VUE has implemented a temporary policy requiring candidates (and test center employees) to wear face masks/coverings while in test centers and while taking exams. In addition to implemented social distancing measures, Pearson VUE continues to follow strict hygienic, disinfectant, and safety procedures. The requirement of wearing face masks/coverings provides an added layer of safety to protect exam candidates and test center employees.
The following policy is effective as of Tuesday, May 12, 2020 at ALL Pearson VUE testing locations:
- Candidates are expected to wear a face mask for the duration of their exam experience, with the exception of briefly removing face masks during the check-in process for identity verification and inspection.
- If a candidate refuses to wear a face mask, the candidate will be denied testing services and treated as absent.
- If a candidate refuses to wear a face mask properly (the WHO and CDC define as fully covering the nose and mouth), the candidate will be denied testing services and treated as absent.
If you are counted as absent you will not be able to sit for your exam appointment. A new application and payment will be required to take your examination.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Candidates may email info@conferencedev.oddjar.com to inquire about the status of their application and fees for any Conference exam. Note that candidates who file a Chargeback through PayPal should expect delays in processing and will be subject to additional fees prior to testing.
Please note this list, along with other updates, is likely to change, so please check Pearson VUE’s COVID-19 update page, as well as monitor your email leading up to your exam.
Thank You,
The Conference
Updated April 29, 2020
Dear exam candidates:
As mentioned in early April, Pearson VUE has designated The Conference’s testing program as an essential service in providing critical support in the COVID-19 pandemic. Conference candidates (NBE, SBE, LRR, & NC-Path) will be allowed to schedule licensure exams through the usual process though there will be limited test center capacity for scheduling. Please see the FAQ link below to answer many of your questions.
Essential Testing Frequently Asked Questions
In addition, as some states begin to lift restrictions, select testing centers are opening in a limited capacity for all exam programs. Please note that this is a fluid situation and Pearson VUE is adjusting based on government guidance. We encourage you to schedule your exam appointment, but keep an eye on your email for important updates that may affect your scheduled exam. If social guidelines or proper sanitation measures cannot be met, your exam may be automatically rescheduled by Pearson VUE for a placeholder test site. If this occurs, you will receive email communication on how to properly reschedule your exam.
In addition, exam candidates testing in the following states are required to wear a mask per local government guidance:
- New York
- Pennsylvania
- New Jersey
- Alaska
- Colorado
- Georgia
- Texas
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Mississippi
- Texas
- Oklahoma
- Ohio
You will be required to provide and wear your own mask, as one will not be provided. If you do not have a face mask, you will not be able to take your scheduled exam and will be counted as absent. A new application and payment would be required to take your examination.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Candidates may email info@conferencedev.oddjar.com to inquire about the status of their application and fees for any Conference exam. Note that candidates who file a Chargeback through PayPal should expect delays in processing and will be subject to additional fees prior to testing.
Please note this list, along with other updates, is likely to change, so please check Pearson VUE’s COVID-19 update page, as well as monitor your email leading up to your exam.
Thank You,
The Conference
Updated April 8, 2020
Dear exam candidates:
Effective Wednesday, April 8, 2020, Pearson VUE has designated The Conference’s testing program as an essential service in providing critical support in the COVID-19 pandemic. Conference candidates (NBE, SBE, LRR, & NC-Path) will be allowed to schedule licensure exams through the usual process though there will be limited test center capacity for scheduling. Please see the FAQ link below to answer many of your questions.
Essential Testing Frequently Asked Questions
In addition to the FAQ document, please note:
- When scheduling, there is no need to indicate essential testing status.
- Conference candidates will need an Authorization To Test (ATT) to schedule an exam appointment (as normal).
- Testing centers will have limited availability due to CDC guidelines. We encourage candidates to check for availability multiple times per day, as Pearson VUE is working to add appointments when available.
- The Pearson VUE COVID-19 page will be updated with additional test center opening information as it becomes available.
- Additional sanitation and infection control policies have been implemented at all Pearson VUE testing sites.
Thank You,
The Conference
Updated March 27, 2020
Dear exam candidates:
Pearson VUE is closely monitoring the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak and testing is available in some areas that have not been affected by closures. Unfortunately, it is difficult to identify precisely which testing centers will be open and taking appointments, as testing availability is changing almost hourly as more protective measures are being put in place. If you are authorized for an exam and are looking for an appointment, please check the Pearson VUE scheduling page for availability. Do note that there have been many cancellations across several testing programs, and we expect an influx of candidates looking for appointments when locations begin to reopen. You may want to continue to check the scheduling page for updates as things change.
Please visit Pearson VUE’s COVID-19 update page for the latest information about testing centers.
Thank You,
The Conference
Updated March 20, 2020
Dear exam candidates:
As the situation with COVID-19 (coronavirus) continues to evolve, Pearson VUE has been continually monitoring and responding to the situation. In an effort to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, Pearson VUE has made the decision to close all of its owned and operated test centers in the United States from March 18 through at least March 31, 2020. This decision comes as a result of guidance received from public health authorities and local governments, as well as to help protect our candidates and test center employees.
If you have an exam appointment scheduled during this time, your appointment will be automatically cancelled and you will be notified by email. This cancellation will not count against you and you will be able to reschedule at no additional cost. We encourage you to monitor updates regarding test center openings and schedule a new appointment at your earliest convenience once test centers reopen.
Please visit Pearson VUE’s COVID-19 update page for the latest information about testing centers.
Thank You,
The Conference
Updated March 16, 2020
Dear exam candidates:
While The Conference does not manage the scheduling and administration of licensure examinations (our partner, Pearson VUE, does), we want to share with you the latest information that is available regarding the ongoing COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak.
Pearson VUE has provided the most up to date information on their website. Please visit https://home.pearsonvue.com/coronavirus-update-us for the latest updates.
Thank You,
The Conference