Arkansas Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
AKA: Arkansas LSW License
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This license requires a bachelor’s degree in social work. The program completed must be accredited by the CSWE (Council on Social Work Education). The license is issued once a Board-approved exam is passed and a criminal background is completed.
LSWs are entry-level licenses that permit the practice of non-clinical social work while supervised by an LMSW, LCSW, or another qualified person. An LSW allows you to practice at a basic generalist level in organized settings. Practicing privately or independently is not allowed. You can provide assessments, case management, advocacy, program administration, community organization, and non-clinical counseling at the basic generalist level.
Arkansas LSW Licensure Process
Education Requirements
You’ll need a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) from a CSWE accredited program. Click here for a list of schools with social work programs accredited by the CSWE.
Application Process
After obtaining your degree, you will fill out and submit an application to the Board either online or by mail in the form. The application submission fee is $100 and an additional $5.50 when done online. Once submitted, request a copy of your BSW transcript be sent to the Board by your program. Keep in mind that electronic copies aren’t accepted.
Background Check
Next, be on the lookout for a fingerprint card mailed by the Board. They’ll mail it after receiving your application so you can complete the background check. There is a list of offenses that will prevent you from passing, so educate yourself on what they are before continuing. If you pass the background check, the Board will issue a provisional LSW license to you. The provisional license permits you to practice as an LSW for one year as you attempt to pass the licensing exam in three attempts.
Examination Requirements
The exam fee is $230 and consists of 170 multiple-choice questions. You’ll be given four hours to complete the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Bachelor’s exam once the Board has reviewed the application and sent a notice of eligibility to the ASWB. It will take the Board two weeks to receive your scores, and if you’ve passed the test, your provisional license will be replaced with a permanent LSW license.