Appeal Policy

Candidate Appeals

The FSBPT Board of Directors routinely reviews the policies that govern the development and administration of the National Physical Therapy Examination. These policies are then shared with the licensing authority for each U.S. jurisdiction. Careful consideration is given when developing policies to ensure that they are in line with the Federation’s mission of public protection.

If you wish to appeal a specific policy related to the National Physical Therapy Examination (excluding eligibility requirements), the first step is to discuss the issue with a Federation staff person. The staff may be able to provide a better understanding of the policy and explain how the policy relates to the Federation’s mission. If you still choose to appeal a policy, you will need to submit a request in writing to the FSBPT Board of Directors. Requests for appeals must be submitted by the candidate within 60 days of his/her most recent examination. The request must include the rationale for the exception to the policy and any steps already taken to resolve this problem with FSBPT staff.

When reviewing appeals, the FSBPT Board of Directors will consider what effect granting the appeal would have on other candidates, the role of the examination in providing a measure of minimal entry-level competence, the security of the NPTE, and any impact the decision might create for the jurisdiction in which the candidate is applying or any other jurisdiction.

Jurisdiction Appeals

Candidates who are ineligible to take the NPTE due to the NPTE eligibility requirements must present information to a licensing authority that may then request an appeal on the candidate’s behalf. If approved, an appeal affords you one attempt, which must be used within 12 months. Visit our website for information on this appeal process.