ALF Core Training Exam Tips: Pass on Your First Attempt

If you’re preparing for the Assisted Living Facility (ALF) Core Training Exam in Florida, you might feel a mix of excitement and nerves. This exam is a crucial step in becoming a licensed administrator or manager of an assisted living facility, and passing it on the first try saves you both time and money.

Here are proven tips and strategies to help you prepare and pass the ALF Core Training exam on your first attempt.

1. Understand the Exam Format

The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering Florida laws, resident care standards, administration, and compliance. You’ll need at least 75% to pass.
📌 Tip: Familiarize yourself with the structure so you can manage your time wisely during the test.

2. Focus on Florida Rules and Regulations

A large portion of the exam comes directly from Florida Administrative Code 59A-36 and Chapter 429, Florida Statutes.
📌 Tip: Pay special attention to:

• Admission and discharge requirements

• Medication assistance rules

• Staffing standards and training

• Resident rights and facility policies

3. Take Practice Tests

Practice exams are one of the best ways to prepare. They help you:

• Get used to the question style

• Identify weak areas

• Build test-taking confidence

📌 Tip: Time yourself when taking practice tests so you’re ready for the real thing.

4. Use Study Guides and Flashcards

Breaking down key terms, acronyms, and rules into flashcards makes it easier to memorize.
📌 Tip: Review them daily — even just 15 minutes a day adds up.

5. Create a Study Schedule

Don’t try to cram everything at once. Instead, spread your studying out over a few weeks.
📌 Tip: Dedicate at least 1–2 hours per day, focusing on one topic at a time (e.g., resident care one day, medication the next).

6. Learn Test-Taking Strategies

Sometimes, you may not know the answer right away — and that’s okay.
📌 Tip:

• Eliminate clearly wrong answers

• Look for keywords in the question

• Don’t leave any question blank

7. Join a Study Group or Training Review

Many candidates find it helpful to review materials with others.
📌 Tip: Discuss tricky topics, quiz each other, and share memory tricks.

8. Get Plenty of Rest Before Exam Day

Don’t underestimate the power of sleep. Staying up late cramming usually leads to more stress and mistakes.
📌 Tip: The night before, do a quick review, then rest so you’re alert and focused.

9. Arrive Early and Stay Calm

On exam day, get there early to avoid rushing. Take a few deep breaths before you start the test.
📌 Tip: Staying calm helps you think clearly and recall what you’ve studied.

Passing the ALF Core Training Exam on your first attempt is completely achievable if you prepare the right way. Focus on Florida regulations, practice often, and develop a steady study routine.

✅ With the right preparation, you’ll walk into the exam with confidence and walk out with your passing score!