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The North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE®) comprises 360 multiple choice questions, which are administered one at a time by computer. Approximately 15% to 20% of the questions will include relevant graphic or pictorial information (photograph, radiograph, chart, etc.). This exam is designed to measure one’s general knowledge base in the various scientific disciplines required in veterinary medicine. The NAVLE requires one full day to complete.
Limit on NAVLE Attempts
A candidate may not sit for Candidates will be permitted to take the NAVLE up to five times, including incomplete attempts. An incomplete attempt is any attempt where a candidate initiates the NAVLE and responds to questions without completing the exam.
Candidates may appeal to the ICVA Board of Directors for approval to take the NAVLE more than five (5) times during a five year period starting from the first attempt. Each of the final two attempts must be at least one year after the previous attempt. This policy took effect beginning with the Fall 2007 session of the NAVLE. Any previous attempts by a candidate, prior to the Fall 2007 testing window, will not count toward the five attempt limit.
Candidates are required to wait for a period of one year following an unsuccessful fifth attempt and are strongly encouraged to undertake remedial training before applying for a further cycle of five attempts.
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This NAVLE retake policy takes effect with the November-December 2024 administration. Attempts made prior to this administration are counted toward the five-attempt limit.
Candidates requiring further details about the new policy regarding NAVLE attempts should review this link: https://www.icva.net/faqs/ and/or contact the NEB and ICVA.
Preliminary Surgical Assessment for the CPE
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Each of the exams is described in greater detail here: