Which version of the ASPEN Core do you need for the CNSC Exam?
Mar 27, 2025
I’ve had several students ask me whether they need the 3rd or 4th edition of the ASPEN Adult Nutrition Support Core Curriculum for the 2025 CNSC Exams. Here is the answer:
I have been in contact with the Chair of the CNSC Exam Committee, who confirmed the 3rd edition of the ASPEN Nutrition Support Core Curriculum will be utilized for the 2025 Spring and Fall exams.
The ASPEN Adult Nutrition Support 3rd Edition is now only available as an eBook. Many people still own a print copy, but it is no longer in print.
The ASPEN Adult Nutrition Support 4th Edition is available, and has the most updated nutrition support information.
Do you need a copy of the ASPEN Adult Nutrition Support Core Curriculum to study for the CNSC Exam? As this is the "bible" for the exam, I strongly recommend test takers have access to a copy. You don't need to purchase it, you can easily share with a colleague or borrow your facility's copy. You will need access to it for 1-3 months during your study window. In my CNSC Exam Study Guide, I give you a "cliff notes" version of this textbook, and tell you exactly which sections you need to read. You do not need to read the entire textbook, if you have a suitable study guide. I've read it twice, so you don't have to!
As an ASPEN member, you receive $100 off the CNSC Exam, so I recommend becoming a member for your exam year. You also receive a substantial discount on the textbook (save $60). Graduate students can get an ASPEN membership for $50, so if you are working on your Master’s Degree, this is a great time to take advantage of a significantly discounted ASPEN membership. New practitioners (within first 2 years of RDN licensure) can receive an ASPEN membership for $100, which is a no-brainer because this provides $100 off the CNSC Exam. For example, if you became an RDN in June 2023, you can activate your $100 New Practitioner ASPEN membership before June 2025, and have a membership until the end of June 2026.
My CNSC Exam Study Guide is based off the 3rd Edition. I have read through the textbook twice and provided a “cliff notes” version for you to use, so you do not have to spend the next six months of your life reading! Check out my CNSC Exam Study Guide here.
