How to Pass the Massachusetts Real Estate Exam: Complete Study Guide

Preparing for the Massachusetts real estate exam can feel challenging if you don’t know where to start. But with the right study plan, tools, and focus, you can pass with confidence.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to pass the Massachusetts real estate exam on your first try. We’ll explain the exam structure, timelines, and the best way to prioritize both national and state sections. You’ll also find practical study schedules, effective test-taking techniques, and strategies to master Massachusetts-specific laws.

Ready to start your real estate career? Read on to save time, cut stress, and enter the testing center prepared to succeed.

Understanding the Massachusetts Real Estate Exam Structure

Before you start studying, it’s important to understand how the exam works. The Massachusetts real estate exam is administered by PSI Services and evaluates your general real estate knowledge as well as Massachusetts state law.

• Structure: 120 multiple‑choice questions — 80 national and 40 state. 
• Time limit: 4 hours total (150 minutes for the national section, 90 minutes for the state section). 
• Passing score: at least 70% on each section. 
• Topics:
  • National — property ownership, financing, valuation, contracts.
  • State — Massachusetts rules on licensing, escrow handling, and Real Estate Board of Registration regulations.

Knowing this structure helps you plan your study sessions efficiently and focus on the areas with the most weight on the test.

Massachusetts Real Estate Exam Requirements: What You Need

Before you can sit for the exam, you must meet the Massachusetts Real Estate Board of Registration requirements:

1. Complete a 40-hour pre-licensing course from a board-approved school.
   
2. Be at least 18 years old and possess a valid Social Security number.
   
3. Secure three character endorsements from individuals unrelated to you who can confirm your honesty and professionalism.
   
4. Submit your application through the school where you completed your pre-licensing course. Once approved, you’ll receive an authorization notice from PSI, allowing you to schedule your exam online.

You can register on PSI’s website. The exam fee is about $85, and you can take the test at a PSI testing center or online via remote proctoring.

Study Techniques That Deliver Results

To pass the Massachusetts real estate exam, you need to do more than just memorize facts—it demands an active and efficient study approach.

Here’s how to make your study time count:

– Active recall: Quiz yourself regularly instead of re-reading notes.

– Spaced repetition: Revisit older topics every few days to strengthen memory.

– Target weak spots: Take practice tests to pinpoint and improve your trouble spots.

– Visual learning: Use charts, diagrams, and flashcards for key concepts.

– Study in blocks: Work in 45–60-minute sessions followed by short breaks to stay sharp.

These habits build stronger recall and reduce stress as exam day approaches—when applied consistently.

Study Schedule for Every Learning Style: 2, 4, or 6 Weeks Plan

The best way to pass the Massachusetts real estate exam is to follow a study plan that fits your schedule. Choose one that works with your routine and stick to it.

2-Week Plan (Fast Track)

Perfect for those who can study full-time.

• Study 5-6 hours daily.
  
• Cover one main topic per day.
  
• Take a full-length practice test every three days to gauge retention.

4-Week Plan (Balanced Approach)

Ideal for those balancing work and study.

• Study 2 hours per weekday, 4 hours on weekends.
  
• Focus each week on a major content category:
  
  • Week 1: National fundamentals
    
  • Week 2: Math and contracts
    
  • Week 3: State laws and regulations
    
  • Week 4: Review and practice exams

6-Week Plan (Flexible Pace)

Best for part-time students or busy professionals.

• Study 1–2 hours daily, with a long weekend review.
  
• Revisit difficult topics weekly.
  
• Schedule your final two weeks for intensive practice and test simulation.

Consistency is key—spaced, daily sessions lead to long-term retention and better performance than cramming.

Simulate the Exam: Use Mock Tests to Build Your Confidence 

Practice exams are one of the most powerful tools to prepare for the Massachusetts real estate exam. They help you assess your readiness, manage time, and build familiarity with the test format.

How to use them effectively:

• Take each practice test under real conditions (timed, quiet space).
  
• Review every mistake carefully and understand why the correct answer is right.
  
• Track your progress over time.
  
• Focus on real estate math, commissions, prorations, and financing questions.

Try Lexawise Massachusetts Real Estate Practice Test for hundreds of exam-style questions and full-length mock exams designed to simulate real conditions.

Master Massachusetts-Specific Laws and Regulations

The state section is where many test-takers struggle, so give these topics extra attention:

• Agency relationships: Understand designated agency, dual agency, and the duties of licensees under each.
  
• Fair housing laws: Know both federal and Massachusetts anti-discrimination protections.
  
• Escrow and recordkeeping: Learn how funds must be held, when deposits are due, and how records should be maintained.
  
• Licensing Procedures: Review renewals, disciplinary rules, and continuing education.

Here’s a tip: Link each rule to a real‑world scenario—like handling multiple offers or required disclosures—so you remember it and can apply it under exam pressure.

After You Pass: Next Steps

Once you pass the Massachusetts real estate exam, follow these steps to launch your career:

• Submit your application and fee to the Massachusetts Real Estate Board of Registration.
• Find a sponsoring broker to activate your license.
• Start gaining experience through client work and mentorship.
• Plan for the future—consider advancing to a broker license or exploring specialties like property management or real estate investment.

Prepare with Lexawise and Pass with Confidence

If you’re serious about passing your real estate exam, you need more than flashcards and guesswork—you need the right system. Lexawise gives you everything to study smarter, stay consistent, and walk into the exam fully confident.

Here’s a closer look at the features that make Lexawise truly stand out — and how they help you pass:

• Largest question bank: Over 4,500 practice questions tailored to each state—no recycled material.
• Smart progress tracking: See your weak spots, strengthen them, and know exactly when you’re ready.
• All-in-one prep tools: Flashcards, topic quizzes, videos, audio lessons, and eBooks in one platform.
• Timed mock exams: Experience the real format, time limit, and difficulty before test day.
• Auto-saved progress: Pick up right where you left off—perfect for busy schedules.

Up-to-date for 2025: Study the latest laws and regulations for your state.

Modern design and mobile access: Study on any device with dedicated Android and iOS apps.

Expert support: Our team is always ready to guide and motivate you.

Start today with Lexawise’s Massachusetts Real Estate Salesperson Exam Prep. Track progress, focus on weaknesses, and set yourself up to pass on round one.

With Lexawise, you’re not just studying—you’re following a strategic, efficient, confidence‑building prep plan designed to help you pass on your first try. Lexawise’s Massachusetts‑specific practice questions, timed mock exams, and progress tracking pinpoints your weak spots so you’re ready on test day.