AE-C Study Plan: 8-Week Schedule
Week-by-Week Preparation Guide for the NBRC AE-C Exam
Week 1–2: Asthma Fundamentals
- •Review asthma pathophysiology (airway inflammation, bronchospasm)
- •Study classification systems (NAEPP EPR-4 guidelines)
- •Learn severity levels (intermittent, mild/moderate/severe persistent)
- •Review normal lung physiology as baseline
- •Daily study: 1.5–2 hours
Week 3–4: Pharmacology & Treatment
- •Study controller medications (ICS, LABA, LTRA, biologics)
- •Review rescue medications (SABA, anticholinergics)
- •Learn inhaler device techniques and proper use
- •Study medication side effects and interactions
- •Review step therapy approach
- •Daily study: 1.5–2 hours
Week 5–6: Patient Education & Assessment
- •Practice developing asthma action plans
- •Study peak flow monitoring and symptom tracking
- •Review triggers and environmental control measures
- •Learn age-appropriate education strategies (pediatric, adolescent, adult, elderly)
- •Study cultural considerations in asthma management
- •Daily study: 1.5–2 hours
Week 7: Special Populations & Advanced Topics
- •Pregnancy and asthma management
- •Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction
- •Occupational asthma
- •Comorbidities (GERD, allergic rhinitis, obesity)
- •Asthma and COPD overlap
- •Daily study: 2 hours
Week 8: Review & Practice Exams
- •Take NBRC free practice exam
- •Review weak areas identified in practice
- •Re-read AE-C Detailed Content Outline
- •Focus on patient scenario questions
- •Daily study: 2–3 hours
Tips
- •Focus on NAEPP guidelines — they’re the foundation of the exam
- •Practice writing asthma action plans from patient scenarios
- •Study inhaler technique for all device types
- •Review pediatric vs adult management differences
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AE-C exam?
The AE-C is a standardized exam. For a comprehensive study guide with practice questions and full-length exams, see our AE-C Study Guide.
How should I prepare for the AE-C?
Start with a structured study plan, use official exam blueprints, and practice with realistic exam questions. Our AE-C Study Guide covers the complete exam content with detailed rationales.
Where can I find AE-C practice questions?
Our AE-C Study Guide includes full-length practice exams with detailed answer rationales covering every content area on the actual exam.
Related Resources
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Our AE-C Study Guide covers every content area with practice questions and detailed answer rationales.