NBEO Part I FAQs

With the current changes and upcoming important dates coming at a fast hurdle, the AOSA would like to keep you as updated and informed as possible. Each month we will display a new set of questions and answers, with the previous months’ FAQs archived and accessible on the AOSA website. All of the information is also available in a more in-depth format within NBEO’s website (www.optometry.org). Keep in mind that the 2012 "National Boards" are the culmination of the work of over 791 optometrists and optometric educators to represent a national standard and fair representation for all optometry students taking the examination. If you have any questions you would like answered please contact Erika Anderson, AZCOPT Trustee, at AZCOPTtrustee@theaosa.org .

What do I need to bring to the NBEO?

Nothing but your knowledge! Four-function calculators and #2 pencils (aka all test-taking tools) will be provided. Though the Board acknowledges and regrets that some candidates will need to become familiar with the Board-provided calculator, it is a basic, simple-to-use device. Although, a strict limitation of permissible calculators was needed for continued calculator allowance, minimizing any inconvenience and additional cost to candidates were serious considerations that influenced the resultant policy.

Phones will NOT be allowed in the exam room at all! Please make arrangements to store them somewhere outside of the test room. Your score may be CANCELLED if it becomes known that a cell phone has been brought into the exam room.
It is highly encouraged for more information you can review the “Instructions to Candidates” at the following link (once available): http://www.optometry.org/instructions_candidates.cfm

Are there any new changes to the question format?

Approximately 15% of the 500 items are multiple response (MR) items, which consist of a stem followed by 4 to 7 options. An MR item will have 2 to 5 correct options and the candidate is required to select ALL of the appropriate options in order to get credit for the test item (there is no partial credit). The stem of the MR item will always indicate how many of the options are required. For example, if there are three correct options, the phrase (SELECT 3) will appear in the stem.

Example 45 from the Part 1 sample test items;

Which 3 of the following organisms are Gram-negative? (Select 3)
a. Neisseria gonorrhoeae **
b. Pseudomonas aeruginosa **
c. Staphylococcus aureus
d. Moraxella lacunata **
e. Corynebacterium diphtheriae

The remainder and vast majority of the items (approximately 85%) are traditional multiple choice items, which consist of a stem (a question or an incomplete statement) followed by 3 to 5 options, ONE of which is the correct or best response.