COS-C & CHS-C Candidate Handbook
Preparing to take the COS-C or CHS-C Exam? OASIS Answers offers both computer-based and paper-and-pencil testing options to help candidates choose the format that works best for them. Before exam day, review the requirements for your testing format, including when to arrive, what identification to bring, which reference materials are permitted, and the rules and procedures you can expect during the exam.
Computer-Based Testing at a Testing Center
Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time.
Identification Requirements
Bring two forms of identification. Failure to provide appropriate ID will be considered a missed appointment and exam fees will not be refunded.
- • Primary ID: A current, government-issued ID with photo and signature, such as a driver’s license, state ID, passport, military ID, Green Card, permanent resident card, alien registration card, or national identification card.
• Secondary ID: An ID displaying your current name and signature, such as an employment/student ID, Social Security card, or credit card.
Open-Book & Open-Notes Policy:
COS-C Exam: You may bring paper-based OASIS reference materials, including CMS OASIS guidance, Blueprint for OASIS Accuracy materials, and the INSTANT OASIS Answers Book.
CHS-C Exam: You may bring paper-based HOPE reference materials, including the HOPE Guidance Manual, CMS HOPE FAQs, HOPE in Action materials, and the INSTANT HOPE Answers Book.
For both exams, reference materials may include handwritten or loose notes, tabs, and page flags.
Paper-and-Pencil Testing at a Workshop Location
Arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled exam time. You must be checked in and seated for instructions 15 minutes before the exam begins.
Identification Requirements
Bring two forms of identification. Failure to provide appropriate ID will be considered a missed appointment and exam fees will not be refunded.
- • Primary ID: A current, government-issued ID with photo and signature, such as a driver’s license, state ID, passport, military ID, Green Card, permanent resident card, alien registration card, or national identification card.
- • Secondary ID: An ID displaying your current name and signature, such as an employment/student ID, Social Security card, or credit card.
Open-Book & Open-Notes Policy
COS-C Exam: You may bring paper-based OASIS reference materials, including CMS OASIS guidance, Blueprint for OASIS Accuracy materials, and the INSTANT OASIS Answers Book.
CHS-C Exam: You may bring paper-based HOPE reference materials, including the HOPE Guidance Manual, CMS HOPE FAQs, HOPE in Action materials, and the INSTANT HOPE Answers Book.
Reference materials may include handwritten notes, loose notes, tabs, and flags used as page markers.
Computer-Based Exam Rules
Exam Restrictions
- • A pencil and one sheet of scratch paper will be provided and must be returned after the exam.
- • Notes made during the exam may not leave the testing center.
- • Questions about exam content are not permitted.
- • Eating, drinking, and smoking are not permitted.
- • Restroom breaks are allowed, but exam time will not be extended.
Testing Center Regulations
- • Personal items, valuables, weapons, phones, cameras, and recording devices are not permitted in the testing room.
- • Wallets and keys may be stored in the provided locker.
- • Guests may not wait in the testing center or surrounding common areas.
- • Communication between candidates is prohibited in the examination area.
Practice Test
Before beginning your exam, you may complete a short computer-based practice test. Practice time does not count toward your exam time or score.
Paper & Pencil Exam Rules
Exam Restrictions
- • Pencils will be provided for use during the exam.
• Notes may not be added to reference materials during the exam.
• Markings are permitted only in the testing instrument and answer booklet.
• Candidates may not access reference books or notes during scheduled breaks or lunch.
• Questions about exam content are not permitted.
Exam Regulations
- • Personal items and electronic devices must be silenced and stored away during the exam.
• Guests are not permitted to wait in the exam room.
• Communication between candidates is prohibited during the exam.
• Candidates are expected to respect the proctor and other examinees.