When Should You Start a PMHNP Review Course

Published by Latrina Walden

  • April 19, 2025
  • 04:03

Latrina Walden

Founder & CEO of LWES | MSN, MHA, FNP-C, FNP-BC, PMHNP

Welcome to LWES! Our goal is to help you succeed in your Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner journey by providing reliable, up-to-date resources to guide you through every step—from exam preparation to career growth.

Meet The Author

Latrina Walden

Latrina is the Founder & CEO of Latrina Walden Exam Solutions (LWES). Her background is in creating a NP Academy that supports and educates current and future nurses through an Academy.
Follow her on Linkedin for more tips & advice in the nursing world.

Table of Contents

    Preparing for the PMHNP exam takes time, focus, and a solid study plan.

    One of the most common questions future nurse practitioners ask is: When should I start my PMHNP review course? In this article, we’ll break down the best timing, key signs you're ready to begin, and how to make the most of your review course.

    1. So, When Should You Start?

    The best time to start a PMHNP review course is around 8 to 12 weeks before your test date. This gives you a structured window to review content thoroughly, complete practice questions, and reinforce key topics without feeling rushed.

    2. Know Your Learning Style

    Before you dive into a review course, ask yourself: What kind of learner am I? Some people prefer structured video lessons and visual tools, while others need to read and take notes to retain information. Knowing this helps you choose a course format that fits you — whether it’s self-paced, live, or hybrid.

    3. Make It Fit Into a Busy Schedule

    If you're juggling work, school, or family, starting early is even more important. To ensure your study sessions don't interfere with your daily responsibilities, starting your review course about 16 weeks before your exam date is highly recommended. This allows you to pace yourself and complete your coursework without feeling rushed.

    Conclusion

    And there you have it.

    Starting your PMHNP review course 8 to 12 weeks before your exam gives you the right balance of structure and time. If your schedule’s packed, giving yourself even more space — like 16 weeks — can make a big difference.

    Pair that with a course that fits your learning style, and you’ll set yourself up for a smoother, more confident study journey.

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