School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) Credentialing Examination

The SNS Credential is a mark of excellence and achievement that reflects what it takes to manage school nutrition programs in today’s challenging climate. The SNS Credentialing Exam evaluates candidates’ knowledge and skills required to perform specific job activities related to managing or directing school nutrition programs.

The SNS exam is based on four (4) key areas, aligned with USDA professional standards that encompass nine (9) knowledge/content areas and competencies including:

• Menu and Nutrition Management
• Facilities, Technology and Equipment Management
• Food Production, Inventory and Operation Management
• Procurement Management
• Food Security, Sanitation, and Safety
• Program Management and Accountability
• Human Resource Management
• Financial Management
• Communications and Marketing

The SNS Credentialing Program is governed by the Certificate and Credentialing Governing Council, an autonomous arm of the School Nutrition Association (SNA). The Governing Council members and SNA Credentialing Program Staff are solely responsible for the policies and administration of SNA’s Credentialing program.

Examination Application Process

To apply to sit for the SNS examination:

• Download and use the Handbook & Application to register for the exam
• Please review the eligibility requirements on page 5 of the handbook

Examination Scheduling Information

Following review and approval of the SNS examination application candidates are issued an exam confirmation notice which includes detailed instructions for scheduling an examination appointment. The name on the confirmation must match the name on the candidate's government-issued ID. SNA must be notified immediately to correct inaccurate spelling of a candidate's name or incorrect personal information. If a candidate's name does not match the name on the candidate's government-issued ID the candidate will not be admitted to a Pearson VUE testing center.

We highly suggest candidates register as soon as possible as test centers fill fast. If a date or time is not available at a candidate’s most convenient location, please consider widening the search criteria to extend the distance to locate additional testing centers. Appointments may be made up to one calendar day prior to the day a candidate wishes to test, subject to availability.

After a candidate successfully schedules an appointment, Pearson VUE will send a confirmation email that includes test date and time, and the address, phone number, and directions to the test center. Once candidates have scheduled an exam appointment, they may also check back periodically to see if availability has changed for a more desirable test center or date. Seats may become available as the targeted test date gets closer.  

More Information

• Handbook and Application
• SNS Exam Preparation Tips
• 2023 Edition of the SNS Study Guide

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Contact SNA

Main: 703.824.3000
Email: certsns@schoolnutrition.org