More NBEO FAQs
Q: “Why has NBEO Part III changed to a one-site location?”
A: At this time, optometry is the only medical profession that does not have its clinical skills exam board test at a one-site location. A one-site location will provide a more standardized test that will be fair and consistently applied.
Having a one-site location also puts every student on a level playing field, as far as test administration and equipment are concerned. This is because each test will be administered under the exact conduct that is laid out under NBEO regulations. Also students will be provided professional patients that fit standard stipulations that allow the student to showcase their skills.
The one-site location will allow students who do not pass the CSE on their first try multiple retakes at the time of their convenience. The targeted testing time will be over a 9-month time frame, from September 6, 2011 to May 31, 2012. The non-targeted time frame will be from July 1, 2012 to August 31, 2012. This is contrary to the former setup in which you were only allowed to either re-take the test on one day in August, or wait an entire year until the next test was administered.
Part 3 (CSE) of boards opened its' one-site facility for testing in the fall of this year. Candidates can schedule their test date Monday-Friday from August 2011 to July 2012. For more information please visit the following link; http://www.optometry.org/part3.cfm
Each room of the testing center will be set up in a standardized format with specific equipment. Candidates will undergo an orientation program prior to testing in order to familiarize them self with the room and equipment. For a complete equipment list please visit the NBEO link: http://www.optometry.org/pdf/NCCTO/Equipment_List.pdf
For additional information about Part 3 of boards please visit the NBEO website www.optometry.org and click on the NCCTO tab at the top of the page.
Q: “What are the deadlines to sign up for Part II PAM of boards?”
A: If taking the exam in April 2011: the registration deadline is January 31st 2011, the late registration deadline and withdrawal/site change deadline is February 14th, 2011.
If taking the exam in November 2011: the registration deadline is September 26th, 2011, the late registration deadline and withdrawal/site change deadline is October 10th, 2011.