What is the format of the NBEO Part 1 ABS exam?

NBEO Part 1 Applied Basic Science is a computer-based multiple-choice exam administered at Prometric testing centers. It is delivered in two sessions on a single day, each containing 185 questions, for a total of 370 items. Questions cover integrated basic science concepts applied to optometric practice.

How many questions are on NBEO Part 2 PAM?

NBEO Part 2 Patient Assessment and Management contains 350 multiple-choice questions delivered across two sessions in one day. The exam includes standalone questions and case-based items tied to patient scenarios covering diagnosis, treatment, and management. It is administered at Prometric centers nationwide.

What is the passing score for the NBEO exam?

The NBEO uses a scaled scoring system where candidates must achieve a scaled score of 300 or higher to pass Parts 1 and 2. The Clinical Skills Examination requires passing all required skills stations. Scores are determined through a criterion-referenced process rather than a fixed percentage of correct answers.

What topics are covered on the NBEO exam?

NBEO exams cover ocular anatomy, physiology, optics, pharmacology, ocular disease, binocular vision, contact lenses, low vision, pediatric optometry, refraction, and patient management. Part 1 emphasizes basic sciences, Part 2 focuses on clinical assessment and management, and the CSE tests hands-on clinical skills such as slit lamp biomicroscopy and binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy.

Who is eligible to take the NBEO exam?

Candidates must be enrolled in or graduated from an optometry program accredited by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE). Part 1 is typically taken after the second year of optometry school, Part 2 during the fourth year, and the CSE during the final clinical year. International graduates must meet additional credentialing requirements.

When is the NBEO exam administered?

NBEO Parts 1 and 2 are offered three times per year, typically in March, August, and December at Prometric testing centers. The Clinical Skills Examination is administered year-round at the National Center of Clinical Testing in Optometry (NCCTO) in Charlotte, North Carolina. Registration windows close several weeks before each administration.

What are the best tips to prepare for the NBEO exam?

Effective preparation includes starting 3-6 months in advance, using review materials such as KMK, OptoPrep, and the NBEO Candidate Guide, and completing timed practice questions daily. Focus on weak subject areas, review ocular pharmacology and disease heavily, and simulate full-length exams. For the CSE, practice clinical skills repeatedly with classmates under timed conditions.

NBEO (National Board of Examiners in Optometry) Test Prep

Get ready for your NBEO (National Board of certification. Practice questions with step-by-step answer explanations and instant scoring.

NBEO - National Board of Examiners in Optometry By Dr. Susan ParkMay 7, 202652 min read

NBEO (National Board of Examiners in Optometry) Test Prep

⏱️12.5hTotal Time

📝500+Questions

✅70%Pass Rate

💵$725+Exam Fee

Passing all parts of the NBEO exam is mandatory for optometry licensure in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. The NBEO Part 1 Applied Basic Science exam is often considered the most challenging hurdle for students.

Nbeo Practice Test - National Board of Examiners in Optometry study guide

NBEO Practice Test Questions

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NBEO Applied Basic Science

NBEO Exam Questions covering Applied Basic Science. Master NBEO Test concepts for certification prep.

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NBEO Clinical Optometry & Patient Care

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NBEO Practice Questions for Ocular Anatomy & Physiology. Build confidence for your NBEO certification exam.

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NBEO EXAM QUESTIONS QUIZ

NBEO Exam Study Guide

This NBEO study guide breaks down essential information about the exam structure, registration, and scoring. Use these tabs to quickly find answers about the NBEO Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 examinations.

What is the NBEO exam?	The NBEO exam is the three-part national licensing examination for optometrists in the US. Passing NBEO Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 is required for state licensure.
Who takes the NBEO test?	Optometry students and graduates from accredited schools take the NBEO test to obtain their license to practice.
What is TMOD in NBEO?	TMOD stands for Treatment and Management of Ocular Disease. It is a separate score derived from the NBEO Part 2 exam.
Where is NBEO Part 3 held?	The NBEO Part 3 clinical skills exam is held exclusively at the National Center of Clinical Testing in Optometry (NCCTO) in Charlotte, NC.

What is the NBEO exam?

The NBEO exam is the three-part national licensing examination for optometrists in the US. Passing NBEO Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 is required for state licensure.

Who takes the NBEO test?

Optometry students and graduates from accredited schools take the NBEO test to obtain their license to practice.

What is TMOD in NBEO?

TMOD stands for Treatment and Management of Ocular Disease. It is a separate score derived from the NBEO Part 2 exam.

Where is NBEO Part 3 held?

The NBEO Part 3 clinical skills exam is held exclusively at the National Center of Clinical Testing in Optometry (NCCTO) in Charlotte, NC.

Topics: Laser procedures, surgical skills
Questions: Varies

Injections Skill Examination for specific state requirements.

Topics: Injection techniques
Questions: 1 Station

Review the NBEO drug list carefully for Part 1, as pharmacology questions often require knowledge of specific mechanisms and side effects.

START NBEO REVIEWER QUIZ

NBEO Score Calculator

Total Scored Questions

150

How many questions did you answer correctly?

0105150

105 out of 150 correct

70%

Required to Pass: ~70% (Estimated)

Your Score: 105 correct✓PASS

The total cost for the core NBEO boards (Parts 1, 2, and 3) is approximately $2,435, not including travel to Charlotte for Part 3.

Nbeo Exam - National Board of Examiners in Optometry study guide

NBEO CERTIFICATION PRACTICE TEST

NBEO Career Opportunities

Passing the NBEO optometry exam opens doors to various specialties and practice settings.

👶

Pediatric Optometrist

Specializes in vision care for children, managing development and binocular vision disorders.

🏥

Clinical Optometrist

Works in hospitals or multi-specialty clinics managing ocular disease and co-managing surgery.

🔬

Research Optometrist

Conducts studies on vision science, contact lenses, and new ocular therapies in academic or industry settings.

🧠

Vision Therapy

Provides rehabilitative exercises for patients with traumatic brain injury or learning-related vision problems.

🔍

Low Vision Specialist

Helps patients with significant vision loss maximize their remaining sight through devices and strategies.

NBEO EXAM PREP QUIZ

NBEO Test Day Checklist

✓Two forms of ID (Part 1/2/3)
✓White coat (Part 3)
✓Equipment kit (Part 3)
✓Confirmation email
✓Arrive 30 mins early
✓No electronics allowed
✓Review Part 3 candidate guide
✓Get good rest!

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Start Your NBEO Prep

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NBEO Renewal Requirements

🔄

Renewal Cycle

1-2 Years

📚

CE Hours

20-50 Hours

💵

Renewal Fee

$200-$500

Check your state board's requirements for CE credits, as they vary. The NBEO website also provides resources for continued competence.

✅Pros

+Validates your knowledge and skills objectively
+Increases job market competitiveness
+Provides structured learning goals
+Networking opportunities with other certified professionals

❌Cons

−Study materials can be expensive
−Exam anxiety can affect performance
−Requires dedicated preparation time
−Retake fees apply if you don't pass

NBEO Questions and Answers

About the Author

Dr. Susan ParkOD, PhD Visual Science

Optometrist & Vision Care Licensing Exam Expert

UC Berkeley School of Optometry

Dr. Susan Park is a Doctor of Optometry with a PhD in Visual Science from UC Berkeley School of Optometry. She has 15 years of clinical optometry practice and academic instruction experience and specializes in preparing optometry graduates for the NBEO Part I, II, and III board examinations, as well as opticianry licensing and vision therapy certification programs.

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