This 10-week study plan prepares dietetics graduates for the CDR Registered Dietitian (RD) examination.

Exam Overview

• •Questions: 125-145 (computer-adaptive)
• •Time: 2.5 hours
• •Cost: $225
• •Domains: Principles of Dietetics (23%), Nutrition Care for Individuals and Groups (45%), Management of Food and Nutrition Programs (21%), Foodservice Systems (11%)

Week 1-3: Principles of Dietetics (23% of exam)

Key Topics:

• •Food science and composition
• •Nutrient metabolism and biochemistry
• •Macronutrient and micronutrient requirements
• •Digestion, absorption, and metabolism
• •Nutrition across the lifecycle
• •Research methodology and statistics

Week 4-6: Nutrition Care for Individuals and Groups (45% of exam)

Key Topics:

• •Nutrition assessment (anthropometric, biochemical, clinical, dietary)
• •Medical nutrition therapy for chronic diseases
• •Enteral and parenteral nutrition
• •Nutrition counseling and behavior change theories
• •Pediatric nutrition and failure to thrive
• •Renal, hepatic, and pulmonary disease nutrition management
• •Diabetes management and carbohydrate counting
• •Eating disorders and disordered eating

Week 7-8: Management of Food and Nutrition Programs (21% of exam)

Key Topics:

• •Healthcare foodservice management
• •Quality management and continuous improvement
• •Human resource management
• •Financial management and budgeting
• •Program planning and evaluation
• •Leadership and communication

Week 9: Foodservice Systems (11% of exam)

Key Topics:

• •Menu planning and recipe modification
• •Food production and distribution
• •Food safety and sanitation (HACCP, FDA Food Code)
• •Procurement and inventory management
• •Facility design and equipment

Week 10: Practice Exams and Final Review

• •Days 1-2: Full-length practice exam (125-145 questions, 2.5 hours)
• •Days 3-4: Review weak areas
• •Days 5-6: Second practice exam
• •Day 7: Rest

Frequently Asked Questions

How many questions are on the RD exam?

The RD exam uses computer-adaptive testing with 125-145 questions. The number of questions varies because the test adapts to your performance.

What score do I need to pass the RD exam?

CDR uses a scaled score of 25 on a 0-50 scale as the passing standard. The specific number of correct answers needed varies by exam form.

How long should I study for the RD exam?

Most candidates benefit from 8-12 weeks of dedicated study. If you completed a strong dietetics program recently, 6-8 weeks may suffice. If you’ve been away from academics, allow 12+ weeks.