National Certification for Educational Diagnosticians

The premier national credential for special education assessment professionals who hold high standards of practice

Why NCED?

Up to I million in professional liability coverage included with eligible NCED Professional Certificate Holder Fees
Optional enhanced coverage available for $35/year for qualifying paid part-time educational work
Enhances professional credibility and visibility
Represents highly qualified status as an assessment professional
Permits use of “NCED” after name in reports and correspondence
Allows inclusion and recognition in the online NCED Registry
Provides a vehicle for potential salary supplement in the future (per state/district regulations)
Assures parents/school officials of rigorous standards for practice
Offers structured opportunities for ongoing professional development
Connects the practitioner with current trends/issues in the field of assessment

NCED’s Growing National Presence

The National Certification for Educational Diagnosticians (NCED) is proud to recognize Professional Certificate Holders who exemplify excellence in educational diagnostics. Earning the NCED credential reflects a commitment to the highest professional standards through demonstrated knowledge, successful completion of a rigorous national certification examination, and ongoing participation in continuing professional development.

Today, NCED Professional Certificate Holders are represented in 19 states, demonstrating the growing recognition and value of national certification throughout the profession. Each newly certified professional strengthens our national presence and reinforces our commitment to advancing excellence, promoting lifelong learning, and supporting high standards of practice for educational diagnosticians across the United States.

As our national network continues to expand, we look forward to welcoming Professional Certificate Holders from every state, further strengthening our nationwide community of certified educational diagnosticians and the profession we proudly serve.

News & Information

5-Year Professional Development Reminder Notice

Mar 23, 2026

Attention Certificate Holders who passed the NCED exam in one of the following years: 2011, 2016, 2021 Dear NCED Certificate Holder, We hope this correspondence finds you well. Five, ten, or even fifteen years have lapsed since you became an NCED member. As you should...

Board of Directors Application

Feb 26, 2026

The end of this fiscal year is quickly approaching and two (2) NCED Board of Directors members will be rotating off at the end of June. We will be seeking new Directors to fill a three-year term which will begin July 1, 2026 and end June 30, 2029. Directors must be...

Lunch & Learn Sessions Scheduled

Nov 3, 2025

Lunch and Learn Sessions (12:30-1:30PM CST, 1:30-2:30PM EST) Wednesday, 11/19/2025 Title: Understanding and Conducting Dyslexia Evaluations Join Laurie Peterson, NCED and owner of Diagnostic Learning Services, for an in-depth discussion on best practices for...