- What is the NBEO® Part 1 Optometry Boards exam?
- The NBEO® Part 1 (National Board of Examiners in Optometry Part 1 Applied Basic Science) is a comprehensive exam taken during optometry school, typically after the second year. It tests your knowledge of basic and clinical sciences essential for optometric practice. Crack the Optometry Boards is an independent test preparation platform. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the NBEO® . NBEO® is a registered trademark of the National Board of Examiners in Optometry. What the NBEO® Part 1 Tests: Basic Science: Biochemistry, Genetics, Microbiology, Immunology, Gross Anatomy, Neuroanatomy, Physiology, Pathology, and Pharmacology Ocular Sciences: Ocular Anatomy, Ocular Embryology, Ocular Physiology, and Ocular Pathology Clinical Sciences: Ophthalmic Optics, Ocular Disease, Ocular Pharmacology, and Visual Science Exam Format: The exam consists of 370 items (350 scored + 20 unscored pretest items) administered over two 4-hour sessions of 185 items each (morning and afternoon). It's a computer-based test taken at Pearson VUE test centers in the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada. Crack the Optometry Boards provides comprehensive preparation materials including full-length practice tests, thousands of practice questions, flashcards, and video content to help you pass the NBEO® Part 1 on your first attempt.
- How is the NBEO® Part 1 exam structured?
- The NBEO® Part 1 is a computer-based exam administered at Pearson VUE test centers. The exam consists of 370 items (350 scored + 20 unscored pretest items) divided into two sessions of 185 items each. Exam Structure: Morning Session 185 items | 4 hours Covers all subject areas with emphasis on basic sciences Afternoon Session 185 items | 4 hours Covers all subject areas with emphasis on clinical sciences Important Notes: You get a scheduled break between the morning and afternoon sessions The exam is computer-based with on-screen tools You cannot go back to the morning session once you start the afternoon session Scratch paper and pencils are provided at the testing center Crack the Optometry Boards' practice tests mirror this exact structure, so you'll be fully prepared for the timing and format on test day.
- What is a passing score for the NBEO® Part 1?
- The NBEO® Part 1 uses a scaled scoring system from 100 to 900. The passing standard is 300, and scores above 300 are passing. The score report also includes five section scores (Anatomy, Biochem/Physiology, Immuno/Micro/Pathology, Optics, Pharmacology). Scoring Information: Scaled Scores: The exam reports a scaled score from 100 to 900 to ensure fairness across different exam forms Pass/Fail: A scaled score of 300 is passing; you receive a pass or fail result along with your scaled score and section scores Subject Breakdown: You'll receive performance feedback by subject area Retake Policy: If you don't pass, you can retake the exam after a waiting period Important: The NBEO® does not publish specific passing scores, as they use a criterion-referenced standard that may adjust based on exam difficulty. Focus on mastering the content rather than targeting a specific score. Crack the Optometry Boards' practice tests provide realistic scoring and detailed performance analytics to help you identify areas for improvement and track your progress.
- How much does the NBEO® Part 1 exam cost and how do I register?
- The NBEO® Part 1 exam registration fee is set by the NBEO® and is subject to change. Check the official NBEO® website for current pricing. Registration Process: Visit the NBEO® website at optometry.org/nbeo Create an NBEO® account keyed to your OE Tracker number Register and pay the exam fee during the open registration window Receive a confirmation email, then a second email linking to Pearson VUE site selection within 2 business days Schedule your exam appointment at a Pearson VUE test center Pro Tips: Register early to ensure your preferred test date and location Choose a testing center close to your optometry school or home Schedule your exam for a time when you perform best Allow adequate preparation time before scheduling your exam date Given the exam cost and importance, thorough preparation is essential. Crack the Optometry Boards provides everything you need to pass on your first attempt, saving you time and money.
- When should I take the NBEO® Part 1 exam?
- Most optometry students take the NBEO® Part 1 exam after completing their second year of the NBEO Part 1, typically during the summer break. The exact timing depends on your school's curriculum and when you feel adequately prepared. We recommend scheduling your exam 8-12 weeks after starting dedicated preparation to ensure you have sufficient time to review all content areas.
- What topics are covered on the NBEO® Part 1 exam?
- The NBEO® Part 1 covers comprehensive basic and clinical science knowledge across multiple domains: Basic Science: Biochemistry, Genetics, Microbiology, Immunology, Gross Anatomy, Neuroanatomy, Physiology, Pathology, and Pharmacology Ocular Sciences: Ocular Anatomy, Ocular Embryology, Ocular Physiology, and Ocular Pathology Clinical Sciences: Ophthalmic Optics, Ocular Disease, Ocular Pharmacology, and Visual Science The exam emphasizes application of knowledge and clinical reasoning rather than pure memorization.