Pass the CNML exam.
Ten minutes a day.
The study app built only for the AONL CNML® exam, for nurse managers and unit leaders.
361practice questions
100question mock exams
IncludesAI tutor
- 361 practice questions
- 100-question mock exams
- AI tutor on every answer
Everything you need to pass
One app, built for one exam. Practice between shifts, review on the go and rehearse test day, all from your phone.
AI tutor
Tap “Ask” on any question for an instant explanation of why the right answer is right, and why the others are wrong. Follow up until it clicks.
100-question mock exams
PremiumThe same number of scored questions as the real CNML exam, drawn from every practice topic and scored by topic, so you know exactly where the points went.
Three ways to quiz
Survival mode gives you three lives. Infinite mode lets you practice without pressure. Test mode checks how many you get right.
Daily quiz & streaks
A short quiz every day keeps the habit alive. Ten focused minutes between shifts beat a weekend of cramming.
50 key-term flashcards
The terms you must know cold, from HPPD and variance analysis to just culture and Kotter’s 8 steps. Save the hard ones for later.
Performance tracking
Score trends across your last quizzes and a pass line for every practice topic, so you spend time on what moves your score.
How it works
Set your exam date
Tell CNML Prep when you test. Your home screen counts down the days, so every session has a deadline.
Practice by topic
Short quizzes drawn from 361 exam-style questions across finance, HR, performance improvement and strategy, each with a written explanation.
Ask why
Stuck? The AI tutor explains the reasoning. Save the questions and flashcards you want to see again.
Sit a mock exam
Rehearse test day with a 100-question mock exam and check your score by topic before the real thing.
What is the CNML exam?
The certification for nurse managers and unit leaders.
The CNML® exam is run by the AONL Credentialing Center. It tests the knowledge a nurse manager needs to run a unit: communication and relationship building, the healthcare environment, leadership, professionalism and business skills such as budgeting, staffing and human resources. Candidates are registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree or higher and nurse manager or nursing leadership experience.
- Credential
- CNML®, Certified Nurse Manager and Leader
- Awarded by
- AONL Credentialing Center (American Organization for Nursing Leadership)
- Format
- 115 multiple-choice questions, 100 of them scored
- Time allowed
- 2 hours
- Delivery
- Computer-based through PSI, at a test center or by live remote proctoring
- Valid for
- 3 years, then recertification (45 hours of professional development or re-exam)
Source: AONL CNML handbook. Details change — confirm on the official AONL website.
361 questions.
Sorted by exam topic.
Practice by topic or mix them all. Every question has a difficulty rating and a written explanation.
FM-01· 96 questions
Financial Management
Financial Management
Budgets, FTEs and HPPD, variance analysis, reimbursement and healthcare economics.
96questions
HR-02· 91 questions
Human Resources
Human Resource Management
Recruitment, retention, performance management, labor law and a healthy work environment.
91questions
PI-03· 87 questions
Performance Improvement
Performance Improvement
PDSA, Lean and Six Sigma, patient safety, root cause analysis and regulatory compliance.
87questions
SM-04· 87 questions
Strategic Management
Strategic Management and Technology
Leadership theories, strategic planning, change models, governance and health IT.
87questions
Ten minutes a day.
Exam-ready in weeks.
Running a unit doesn't leave much time for textbooks. CNML Prep turns every spare ten minutes into exam-style practice with instant feedback.
Your first quizzes are on us.
From the blog
Study plans and strategy for the CNML exam.
Exam guide · November 3, 2026 · 6 min read
CNML Exam 2026: Format, Eligibility, Cost and Content Outline
The AONL CNML exam explained: 115 questions in 2 hours, eligibility, the $300 or $425 fee, the five content domains, scoring, retakes and recertification.
Read articleFrequently asked questions
What is the AONL CNML exam?
The CNML® exam is the certification exam for nurse managers and unit leaders, administered by the AONL Credentialing Center (American Organization for Nursing Leadership). Passing it earns the Certified Nurse Manager and Leader credential.
How many questions are on the CNML exam?
The CNML exam has 115 multiple-choice questions, of which 100 are scored and 15 are unscored pretest items. Candidates have 2 hours to complete it. Always confirm current details in the AONL CNML handbook.
Who is eligible for the CNML exam?
You need an active, unrestricted RN license, a bachelor’s degree or higher (at least one degree in nursing), and either 2,080 hours in a nurse manager or primary unit leader role or 4,160 hours in a nursing leadership support role. Check the AONL handbook for the current requirements.
What is CNML Prep?
CNML Prep is an iPhone and iPad app built only for the CNML exam. It includes 361 exam-style practice questions organized by topic, 100-question mock exams, 50 key-term flashcards, a daily quiz and an AI tutor that explains the reasoning behind every answer.
How long should I study for the CNML exam?
Many candidates plan for 6 to 12 weeks of steady preparation. Short daily sessions work better than cramming: CNML Prep is designed around short daily quizzes, key-term flashcards, saved questions and a countdown to your exam date.
Is CNML Prep free?
CNML Prep is free to download, and your first practice quizzes are free. CNML Prep Premium, an in-app purchase, unlocks unlimited quizzes, mock exams, the full question bank and extended AI tutor access.
Is CNML Prep affiliated with AONL?
No. CNML Prep is an independent study tool and is not affiliated with, sponsored or endorsed by AONL. CNML® is a registered trademark of the American Organization for Nursing Leadership.
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