How to Pass Your Real Estate Exam the First Time in 8 Simple Steps

High,School,Or,College,Students,Studying,And,Reading,Together,InAre you determined to become a successful real estate agent? Embarking on a new career path is an exciting journey and determination is the right mindset to have as you prepare to take your real estate exam!  

If you are nervous or feeling a little overwhelmed with how to pass on your first try, rest assured with the right preparation, you can overcome your nerves and pass the exam with ease… and it starts now!

In this guide, we’ll share eight simple steps to help you prepare effectively and increase your chances of passing the real estate exam on your first attempt. 

By following these tips, you’ll build confidence, master key concepts, and set yourself up for success in your real estate career. 

8 Tips & Steps to Follow

If you’re looking for quick answers on how to pass your exam let’s dive right in! Keep in mind there are no shortcuts to studying, but we’ll point you in the right direction with simple tips to follow as you prepare!

  1. Review Your State’s Exam Format: Each state has different requirements. Know how many questions are on the exam in both the national and state portions, how much time you’ll have, and which topics will be covered. This will help you develop a targeted study plan. Find your state’s guide here
  2. Budget for Study Guides: You will need to take courses as required by your state, choose reputable schools, and study materials like textbooks, online prep courses, and practice exams. Prep Agent & The CE Shop 
  3. Create a Study Schedule: Develop a study schedule that allows for consistent, focused study sessions. It’s important to make sure it fits your lifestyle so that you maintain balance and a positive mindset. 
    1. Break down the exam topics into manageable chunks and allocate dedicated time each day or week to review material, take practice tests, and reinforce key concepts.
    2. There is a math component of the real estate exam that I want to note makes up about 10-15% of the test. Set aside time in your study schedule to get comfortable with real estate-specific math terms and formulas.
  4. Take Practice Exams Regularly: Practice exams and quizzes will help you gauge your understanding of the concepts. Review any incorrect answers and identify areas you need to focus on more.
    1. For most states, you need to score [between 60%-75% to pass. Take tests until you are consistently passing with above 75%. 
  5. Prioritize Concepts You Struggle With: Spend extra time reviewing topics you find challenging. Reach out to experienced agents and peers online for help understanding. Again, practice quizzing yourself until you feel comfortable with the material. 
  6. Utilize Memory Techniques: Use mnemonic devices, flashcards, or visualization techniques to help remember key concepts, definitions, and formulas. Repetition and association can aid in retaining information and recalling it during the exam.
  7. Take Care of Yourself: This may seem trite, but self-care can greatly impact your ability to focus and intake new information. Get plenty of rest, eat nutritious meals, exercise regularly, and manage stress through relaxing activities that bring you joy. 
  8. Stay Positive and Confident: Believe in yourself and your abilities as you approach the exam. Maintain a positive attitude, visualize success, and trust in the preparation you’ve put in. Confidence in your knowledge and skills will help alleviate nerves and perform your best on exam day.

Passing the real estate exam on your first attempt is an amazing goal, but also keep in mind if you don’t pass… don’t give up! You can take it again, and there is absolutely no shame in that. Many successful agents do. 

By following the eight simple steps outlined above, you’ll increase your likelihood of passing on the first try and open the door to exciting opportunities in the real estate industry. 

For more in-depth steps on how to study for the real estate exam, check out this article I wrote. Also, I wrote another article, for more tips on how to prepare for the exam day.

You’re already well on your way to accomplishing your goals! 

Quick Example of a Study Schedule

This is just to help you get started developing your unique schedule. But you might try assigning a specific topic or concept each day, and then plan for different topics on each day the following week. 

Take a look and see what you think!

  1. Monday: real estate principles and practices
  2. Tuesday: property ownership and land use regulations
  3. Wednesday: contract law and financing concepts
  4. Thursday: fair housing laws
  5. Friday: Take a full-length practice exam to assess progress
  6. Saturday: Review any weak areas identified during the practice exam and plan next week’s schedule
  7. Sunday: Rest and recharge for the week ahead 

Pretty straightforward and simple right? 

Summary

Passing the real estate exam on your first try is achievable, but don’t sweat it if you don’t. The long-term goal is to be a successful real estate agent and as long as it takes you to get there is just that… how long it takes you to get there. 

But again, with the proper tools, preparation, and dedication I believe you can do it! If you follow the steps outlined above, it may even be easy for you. 

Remember to stay focused, stay positive, and believe in your abilities. You’ll soon be on your way to a rewarding career in the dynamic world of real estate.

Chris Heller Headshot

About the Author

Chris Heller brings 27 years of experience in real estate. Chris serves on the Agent Advice Editorial Board and is the Chief Real Estate Officer at OJO Labs. Chris brings deep expertise having held influential industry positions including CEO of mellohome and former CEO of Keller Williams Realty International.

Last Updated: 3/19/2024