Massachusetts Licensed Social Worker Associate (LSWA) Guide - 2024

Massachusetts Licensed Social Works Associate (LSWA) Licensure Process

As a Licensed Social Works Associate, you will work under the supervision of any of the three higher social works license holders. You will collate data for research, identify client needs, and show clients how to take advantage of resources and support. 

Educational Requirements

To qualify for the LSWA license, you’re required to complete an Associate’s degree in any human services discipline or a Bachelor’s degree in any field. Here you can find all schools offering social work degree programs in Massachusetts.

If you do not possess any of the above degrees, you can garner at least four years of supervised experience as a social worker AND a high school diploma. Your supervisor will act as a reference and attest to your work experience. This attestation alongside your diploma will substitute for the degree requirement.

Experience Requirements

Four years or more of documented experience for applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent.

Examination Requirements

There are examination requirements that every prospective LSWA seeker must meet to qualify for the license. The board requires applicants to pass the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) National Associate Social Works Exam. However, the board must screen your application and give the go-ahead before you take this exam.

You can register online for the national bachelor’s social works exam. You can also register by mail, phone, or fax by downloading, filling, and submitting the exam registration form.

Reference Requirements

The board requires three professional references. At least one of these references must be an LCSW or LICSW license holder or a holder of an equivalent license from another state.

Applying for Licensure as a Licensed Social Works Associate

Complete and submit an online licensure application form to the board OR send your application to the email address for application. The ASWB processes licensure applications on behalf of the state board.

Your application should contain the following documents;

• Certified transcripts of the highest suitable degree from your college. Your college can send the transcript electronically to this email address or in a sealed official envelope.
• A completed criminal background check in a signed, notarized criminal history acknowledgment form.
• A 2-inch by 2-inch color passport photograph. The photograph must be clear and scanned, and submitted during the online application or sent via mail with the other application documents.
• Three professional references.

The board will notify you by mail if your application has gained its approval or if there are issues to resolve. If your application is approved, proceed to register for the ASWB exam. The ASWB exam registration fee is $230. The ASWB will also send your result to the board if you pass the exam.