# What are the BCBA continuing education (CEU) requirements?

> How many CEUs you need, the ethics and supervision minimums, and how to plan a cycle without a last-minute scramble.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/bcba-continuing-education
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-27

**Short answer:** BCBAs need 32 continuing education units (CEUs) in each 2-year recertification cycle. Under the 2027 requirements, at least 4 must be in ethics and, for BCBAs who supervise, 4 in supervision. Since March 2025, ethics CEUs can also cover cultural and contextual responsiveness. You submit a recertification application before your recertification date.

**Key takeaways**
- **32 CEUs** every **2 years**.
- At least **4 in ethics**, and **4 in supervision** if you supervise.
- Ethics CEUs can include **cultural and contextual responsiveness**.
- **Plan early** so you're not scrambling before your recertification date.

## How many CEUs do BCBAs need?

To maintain certification, BCBAs complete **32 CEUs** in each 2-year cycle, follow the BACB's ethics and self-reporting requirements, and submit a recertification application before their recertification date.[1]

| Type | Minimum |
| --- | --- |
| Total CEUs | 32 |
| Ethics | 4 |
| Supervision (for supervisors) | 4 |

## What counts as an ethics CEU?

Since March 2025, the BACB defines ethics continuing education as events about the BACB's ethics requirements and/or cultural and contextual responsiveness, linked to behavior-analytic practice or research. Most of the event must focus on those topics.[1]

## How do I plan my CEUs?

**Try:**
- Spread CEUs across the 2 years, about 4 per quarter
- Book ethics and supervision CEUs first
- Pick topics tied to your current caseload
- Save certificates in one folder as you go

**Skip:**
- Cramming in the last month
- Events that aren't from approved providers
- Assuming a general talk counts as ethics

**Useful topics.** Assent-based practice, caregiver training, supervision systems and naturalistic teaching are all areas many BCBAs want
  to strengthen.

**Always check the handbook.** Rules on CEU types, limits and approved providers are in the current BCBA Handbook.
  [2]

## What can I do this month?

- [ ] Check your recertification date
- [ ] Count CEUs you've already earned this cycle
- [ ] Book your ethics and supervision CEUs

Read next: [What changes for BCBA certification in 2027?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/bcba-2027-requirements)

## Common questions

### Where can I earn CEUs?

From BACB-approved continuing education (ACE) providers, conferences, and other options listed in the BCBA Handbook. Check the event is approved before you attend.

### Do I need supervision CEUs if I don't supervise?

The supervision CEU requirement applies to BCBAs who supervise. If you plan to supervise, keep it up so you stay qualified.

### What counts as an ethics CEU?

Events mainly about the BACB's ethics requirements or about cultural and contextual responsiveness, linked to behavior-analytic practice. Events that only briefly mention ethics don't count.

## Sources

1. Behavior Analyst Certification Board: 2027 BCBA requirements (maintenance and continuing education). https://www.bacb.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2027-BCBA-Requirements_260127-a.pdf
2. Behavior Analyst Certification Board: BCBA Handbook. https://www.bacb.com/bcba-handbook/

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.