preparing for NBEO part 1
The Applied Basic Science (ABS) exam is the first part of the optometry boards administered by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO). The ABS exam is designed to assess your understanding of the concepts underlying optometric care. The exam consists of 350 scored multiple-choice items. For additional details regarding exam structure and example items, visit the NBEO’s ABS page.
Studying for your individual IUSO courses will help you prepare for the ABS exam, but additional studying is necessary for success on this comprehensive exam. While individual course exams require analysis and synthesis of specific or selective topics, the ABS exam requires you to connect your understanding across crosses and semesters of the IUSO program. Success on the ABS requires mastery of content much beyond surface-level recognition of terms and definitions.
Read on for guidance on how to best prepare for this comprehensive exam.
Questions? Get in touch.
- Cindy Vance: csvance@indiana.edu
- registering to take the exam and other logistics
- Dr. Andi Strackeljahn: amstrack@iu.edu
- study strategies and access to previous course content
- Dr. Kim Kohne: kkohne@indiana.edu
- time management or general questions