Your Most Frequently Asked LSW/LCSW Questions: Answered

1. What is the difference between the LSW and the LCSW?

Social workers who are graduating from an MSW/MSS program have the opportunity to apply for their LSW license. You can begin the application process during the second semester of the year you are graduating, though there are a few steps you must follow during the application process. You will need to submit an application as well as documentation of graduation to your state’s board, and then pass the ASWB’s Masters level exam.

Of course, if you already have your LSW and would like to pursue a career in supervisory or direct service, then it is recommended that you go for your LCSW. To do this, you will need to have already obtained your LSW, then complete 3000 supervised clinical hours, and take the ASWB’s Clinical level exam.

2. How do I get my supervised clinical hours?

For every 40 hours of clinical experience, 2 hours will have to be supervised in order to count towards the LCSW requirements. At least half of the supervised time must be provided by an LCSW social worker who has 5+ years of clinical experience.

Half of the clinical work experience has to be face-to-face family or group therapy, psychosocial interventions, psychotherapy, consultation, or providing assessment. The rest of your time can be spent on administrative responsibilities.

3. What kind of documentation do I need for my supervised hours?

There isn’t a specific format for tracking your hours, so it is up to you and your supervisor to find something that works for you. Usually, the best method is to have a supervisor regularly sign off on your work as well as have them provide regular evaluations of your work to make sure that you are meeting your learning goals.

4. How do I prepare for the exam?

No matter which exam you are preparing for, the process is going to be relatively similar. Both exams are written and administered by the ASWB, so all registration and payment will be done through their website. If you are preparing for the LSW, then you will need to submit an application to your state licensing board before you can register for the exam. Most experts agree that you will need 100 to 200 study hours in order to properly prepare for both the LSW and the LCSW. This comes out to about 2 to 3 months if you are studying 15+ hours a week.

However, the amount of study prep you need differs from person to person. If you plan on working or going to school during your prep, you will most likely want to take longer. If you plan on using an LSW tutor or an LCSW tutor, then you may not need as much time as your study sessions will most likely be more productive.

5. What if I don’t pass?

You can retake the LSW and the LCSW, but you will need to pay the testing fee again for each attempt. You will also have to wait three months before your next attempt.

Instead of letting this add stress to your preparation, just think of the three months as some extra time to dedicate to your studies. Sometimes it helps to get that first attempt out of the way because now you will know exactly what to expect and can better prepare.