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National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) Part III Clinical Skills Examination
600 questions
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About this exam
The National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) Part III Clinical Skills Examination assesses whether optometry candidates can apply clinical knowledge and perform core patient-care skills. It is one part of the NBEO examination sequence used in the U.S. optometrist licensure process; state licensing boards set their own requirements. Candidates commonly take Part III near the end of optometry school or after graduation, subject to current NBEO eligibility rules. Check the official candidate information and your state board’s requirements for the applicable 2027–2028 cycle.
Preparation for NBEO Part III should connect clinical reasoning with clear, organized examination technique. Review patient history and chief-complaint analysis, visual acuity and refractive assessment, pupillary testing and afferent defect assessment, and ocular motility and binocular vision. The exam evaluates practical clinical skills, so recalling facts alone may not be enough: candidates should rehearse how they gather information, choose and perform appropriate tests, interpret findings, and communicate professionally. Use the current NBEO guide to confirm the exam format and expectations, which may be updated.
How to prepare for the NBEO Part III Clinical Skills Examination
- Review each clinical area systematically, especially patient history, visual acuity and refraction, pupil assessment, and ocular motility and binocular vision; connect each test to the findings it can help evaluate.
- Rehearse timed clinical scenarios aloud, following a consistent sequence for history-taking, test selection, technique, interpretation, and explanation to the patient. Use practice questions to identify topics that need more review.
- Read the current NBEO Part III Candidate Guide and exam policies, then confirm any state-specific licensure requirements with your state board rather than relying on older dates or advice.
FAQ
Who is eligible to take the NBEO Part III exam?
Eligibility depends on NBEO rules for the applicable exam cycle and a candidate’s education and examination status. Optometry students and graduates should review the current NBEO candidate information and confirm any separate requirements with the state board where they plan to seek licensure.
What is the format of the NBEO Part III Clinical Skills Examination?
Part III is a practical clinical skills examination rather than only a written knowledge test. Its specific format, procedures, and candidate instructions should be checked in the current NBEO Candidate Guide, since details can change by cycle.
What should I study for NBEO Part III?
Focus on clinical skills and reasoning, including patient history and chief-complaint analysis, visual acuity and refractive assessment, pupillary testing, and ocular motility and binocular vision. Pair content review with timed practice performing and explaining clinical procedures.