The NEB examination process comprises three exams measuring entry-level competence in the theory and practice of veterinary medicine in a North American context:
- the Basic and Clinical Sciences Examination (BCSE);
- the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE);
- the Clinical Proficiency Examination (CPE).
A graduate of a non-accredited veterinary school must complete all three parts of the foregoing examinations, starting with the BCSE, followed by the NAVLE and the CPE (whereas the NAVLE can be attended first and the CPE thereafter or vice versa) in order to be granted a CQ. Graduates of an accredited veterinary school need only pass the NAVLE within two attempts to be granted a CQ. Moreover, graduates of an accredited college who do not achieve a passing mark on the NAVLE within two attempts must also complete the CPE, once they have passed the NAVLE, in order to receive a CQ.
All veterinary schools in Canada and the USA are currently accredited, as are those listed on the AVMA website. Candidates who are uncertain of the accreditation status of their college may obtain the necessary information from the NEB office.
A candidate may not be re-examined in the NAVLE if he/she has already passed it, unless such re-examination is required by a provincial licensing body.
A candidate who is a graduate of a non-accredited veterinary school must successfully complete the BCSE, the NAVLE and the CPE within a 5 year period commencing when the candidate begins the Examination sequence. A candidate who does not complete the Examination sequence within the 5 year period will be required to request the re-activation of their file and pay the re-activation fee, as appropriate to the candidate's situation (see Schedule of Fees). However, all previous Examination results will still be valid and will be maintained in the candidate's file.
Note also that a candidate who has been granted eligibility to register for the Examination must begin the Examination sequence within two years or he/she will also be required to request re-activation and pay the re-activation fee.
Finally, candidates should note that the Examination may be administered only to bona fide candidates (i) for initial licensing in any province or state, or (ii) who are already licensed in a province or state, but are seeking a license in another jurisdiction that does not recognize the candidate's existing scores as qualifying for a license.
All of the exams may be taken in either English or French, at the discretion of the candidate.
Candidates with a Documented Disability
Reasonable accommodation will be made for a candidate with a documented disability, if the candidate identifies the disability, makes a request and provides supporting documentation for such accommodation prior to or at the time of registration. The candidate will be required to present documentation in support of the request.
The Board will consider the recommendation of health care providers in conjunction with all other circumstances, which might include the availability of the recommended accommodation. A copy of the procedures for requesting testing accommodations may be obtained by submitting a written request to the NEB.