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UW Emergency Medical Services

Peer Advising

Ask an EMT

**We are NOT currently responding to individuals under the age of 18. If you are a minor and would like to have your questions answered, please have an adult (parent/guardian) fill out this form on your behalf.**

If you are interested in speaking with one of our current EMTs about their experience or have questions about becoming an EMT, please complete this form, and a member of our team will reach out to you as soon as possible.

Ask an EMT

NREMT Preparation

The National Registry Exam (NREMT) is the national certification exam for prehospital providers. You must have this certification to apply to a UWEMS cohort.

General tips and tricks for succeeding on the NREMT:

  • Take the exam promptly. We recommend scheduling the NREMT soon after completing your EMT coursework, while the material is still fresh.

  • Wait until you feel prepared. You may need a few weeks following your EMT program to review and prepare for examination. However, we recommend testing within 30-40 days of program completion.

  • Use practice questions. Many of our EMTs found practice exams to be one of the most effective study tools. Mobile apps such as PocketPrep can be especially helpful for simulating test conditions. UWEMS is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or responsible for any third-party products or services mentioned.

  • Trust yourself. You’ve done the work, built the knowledge, and gained the skills! Approach the exam with confidence, and you are ready to succeed.

Tips for UW Students

  • Consider summer EMT programs. Summers are an excellent time to complete an EMT certification course. North Seattle College offers a summer cohort each year for those staying in the King County area.

  • Plan for the workload. EMT school is rigorous and requires dedicated studying and practice. While it is possible to take the course alongside full-time classes at UW, be prepared for a significant time commitment. During the school year, North Seattle College also offers evening classes, accessible by a 20-minute commute on the Link Light Rail.

  • Prioritize your mental health. EMT training can be demanding, both academically and emotionally. Be intentional about self-care and take steps to prevent burnout. EMS work can sometimes be traumatic; if you experience distress, we strongly encourage you to seek support from a therapist or other trusted professional. Your health and well-being always come first.

Counseling Center