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Exam Prep

How to Prepare for a C&P Exam

Editorial Team

September 20, 2025

7 min read

Preparing for Your C&P Exam

The Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam is a critical step in the VA claims process. Here's how to prepare.

Before the Exam

Gather all relevant medical records
Keep a symptom diary for at least 2 weeks
List all medications and treatments
Note how conditions affect daily life

During the Exam

Be honest, thorough, and describe your worst days. The examiner needs to understand the full impact of your condition.

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Military Disability Nexus Editorial Team

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Military Disability Nexus Clinical Review Team

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Originally published September 20, 2025 • Last updated May 3, 2026

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About this article. This post is general educational and medical information published by the Military Disability Nexus clinical team. It is not legal advice, not individualized medical advice, and not a substitute for a personal evaluation by a licensed clinician or a consultation with an accredited representative. Reading it does not create a doctor-patient or attorney-client relationship. VA law and rating criteria change; some details may not reflect the most recent updates, and every claim is decided by the VA on its own facts – no outcome is promised or guaranteed. Military Disability Nexus is an independent medical-evidence provider and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or any government agency. Free claims assistance is available from VA-accredited Veterans Service Organizations and county Veterans Service Officers; you can verify any representative's accreditation through the VA Office of General Counsel.