News
AACN’s Ongoing Commitment to CNS Certification
Nov 12, 2026
On Jan. 1, 2029, AACN will become the only certifier offering initial certification for Adult-Gerontology CNS program graduates. We want to confirm with full clarity that we will continue to offer and actively support all of our APRN CNS certification programs:
- APRN Consensus Model-Based Wellness Through Acute Care Credentials
- Legacy Credentials - Renewal Only
We recognize that transitions and other changes across the certification landscape can create uncertainty. Please know that we remain deeply dedicated to the CNS community, our academic partners and the patient populations served.
To ensure that candidates, program directors and faculty continue to have a clear pathway to certification, AACN will continue collaborating with ANCC and the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists (NACNS) to support current and future certificants.
AACN and AACN-CC have a rich history of promoting and supporting the CNS role. Since 1999, when we launched the CCNS certification exams, we developed “AACN Scope and Standards for Acute Care Clinical Nurse Specialist Practice,” sponsored the CNS Census and student luncheon at the NACNS annual conference, advocated within the LACE Network and led numerous other initiatives.
In January 2027, AACN-CC will launch our next national study of CNS practice, which helps ensure exam content reflects current practice. Please watch for an invitation to participate in the study and influence future CNS certification exams.
Refer to the FAQ below for more information. For additional questions, please email APRNcert@aacn.org and join the conversation in our Advanced Nursing Practice online community.
FAQ for CNS Program Faculty, Current & Future CNS Students and Practicing CNSs
What is changing?
Effective Jan. 1, 2029, AACN will be the only certifier offering initial certification for Adult-Gerontology CNS program graduates.
Why the change?
ANCC will be retiring its initial certification exam for Adult-Gerontology CNS program graduates.
What CNS certification programs does AACN offer?
AACN offers certification for Adult-Gerontology (ACCNS-AG), Pediatric (ACCNS-P) and Neonatal (ACCNS-N) CNS program graduates; these APRN Consensus Model-based exams cover the spectrum of wellness through acute care. AACN also maintains a legacy CNS credential (CCNS). Refer to the FAQ about the APRN Consensus Model and CNS certifications.
How long has AACN offered CNS certification?
AACN has been certifying CNSs since 1999 when we launched the CCNS exams. We introduced the ACCNS-AG and ACCNS-P exams in 2013, and the ACCNS-N exam in 2014.
Are AACN’s CNS certifications accredited?
All certification programs offered by AACN are accredited by the Accreditation Board for Specialty Nursing Certification (ABSNC).
As a CNS program director, what should I know?
AACN is here to support you. We understand some faculty will want more information. Watch for details in an upcoming digital issue of CNS PD News.
What if I don’t receive CNS PD News?
To sign up for AACN’s quarterly CNS program director e-newsletter, send your request to APRNcert@aacn.org with your name, title, school and email address. Learn more about what AACN has to offer in Fast Facts for APRN Program Directors.
What does the change mean for CNS curricula?
CNS educational program curricula should be aligned with test plans for all available certification exams. AACN test plans are in the Exam Handbook for the specific certification program.
What if my school’s CNS curriculum is not yet verified for AACN certification?
For information about submitting your curriculum for review, visit the Program Director Resources page.
As a current or future CNS student, what should I know?
AACN is here to support you now and throughout your career as a CNS. For details, check out our FAQ for APRN Students.
Does AACN have a time limit on testing following graduation from a CNS program?
AACN does not currently have a time limit on testing following graduation.
How long are AACN’s CNS certifications valid?
AACN’s CNS certifications are granted for a period of five years and may be renewed.
What does AACN CNS certification renewal look like?
CNS certificants may renew via one of three options:
- Option 1 - Practice Hours & CE Points (25 as Pharmacology CE)
- Option 2 - Practice Hours, Exam & 25 Pharmacology CE
- Option 3 - Exam & CE Points (25 as Pharmacology CE)
Who should I contact with questions?
Email APRNcert@aacn.org, and we will respond to your inquiry as soon as possible.