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Master every topic
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A full NBCE exam simulator. The only way
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Practice questions similar to the actual exam.
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exam day.
In-depth rationales created by industry leaders.
Insider tips and secrets from past test-takers.
10 Practice Tests updated for the latest NBCE version.
Each answer is explained in-depth to make the reasoning behind it crystal clear.
How to behave on the exam day.
Part 1: NBCE Practice Tests
Full-length NBCE practice tests that mirror the real National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) exam.
Each answer is explained in-depth to make the principles behind it crystal clear.
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What is the NBCE Exam?
The National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) Exam is the standardized, multi-part assessment all U.S. jurisdictions require for chiropractic licensure. Designed to verify both foundational science knowledge and clinical competency, the NBCE ensures you’re fully prepared to deliver safe, effective patient care.
NBCE Exam Outline
Multi-Part Structure:
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Part I (Basic Sciences): Tests General Anatomy, Spinal Anatomy, Physiology, Chemistry, Pathology, and Microbiology.
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Part II (Clinical Sciences): Covers Chiropractic Principles & Practice, Radiology, Neuromusculoskeletal Diagnosis, Clinical Laboratory, and Public Health & Nutrition.
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Part III (Practical Skills): Assesses hands-on examination, manipulation, and diagnostic techniques through simulated patient interactions.
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Part IV (Physician Clinical Skills): Evaluates clinical decision-making, case management, and patient communication in a live-actor format.
NBCE Exam Topics
Updated for 2025
General Anatomy
Associated Clinical Sciences
Spinal Anatomy
Case History
Physiology
Physical Examination
Chemistry
Neuromusculoskeletal Examination
Pathology
Clinical Laboratory
Microbiology
Diagnosis or Clinical Impression
General Diagnosis
Medicine Preparation
Neuromusculoskeletal Diagnosis
Supportive Interventions
Diagnostic Imaging
Case Management
Principles Of Chiropractic
Chiropractic Technique
Chiropractic Practice
Physiotherapy
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Total Duration: 4 hours and 20 minutes of testing time
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Question Count: 300 multiple-choice items
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Delivery: Computer-based at Prometric centers
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Scoring Scale: 200–800 (at least 375 required to pass)
The NBCE exam topics, as you can see above, are:
1. General Anatomy
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Covers foundational body structures, organ systems, and anatomical landmarks essential for clinical orientation.
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Emphasizes relationships between tissues and organs to support diagnostic and treatment planning.
2. Spinal Anatomy
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Details vertebral column segments, intervertebral discs, ligaments, and neural elements.
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Focuses on biomechanics and anatomical variations relevant to spinal health and chiropractic assessment.
3. Physiology
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Explores normal function of cells, tissues, and organ systems under homeostatic regulation.
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Highlights mechanisms like neural transmission, cardiovascular dynamics, and endocrine feedback loops.
4. Chemistry
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Reviews basic chemical principles, molecular interactions, and biochemical pathways.
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Applies concepts such as pH balance, reaction kinetics, and pharmacokinetics to human physiology.
5. Pathology
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Examines disease mechanisms, cellular alterations, and tissue responses to injury.
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Connects pathological changes to clinical presentations and potential chiropractic implications.
6. Microbiology
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Introduces bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites in the context of infection and immunity.
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Covers principles of pathogen identification, host defense, and infection control measures.
7. General Diagnosis
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Establishes frameworks for symptom evaluation, differential diagnosis, and clinical reasoning.
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Integrates patient history, physical findings, and basic laboratory data to form diagnostic hypotheses.
8. Neuromusculoskeletal Diagnosis
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Focuses on assessing musculoskeletal and neurological dysfunction through examination and testing.
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Emphasizes correlating patient symptoms with anatomical and neurophysiological findings.
9. Diagnostic Imaging
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Reviews radiographic anatomy and imaging modalities like X-ray, MRI, and CT scans.
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Teaches image interpretation skills to identify structural abnormalities and guide care.
10. Principles Of Chiropractic
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Covers theoretical foundations, spinal biomechanics, and subluxation concepts.
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Explains the philosophy and rationale behind chiropractic interventions and patient care models.
11. Chiropractic Practice
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Addresses professional standards, ethics, and patient communication strategies.
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Includes practice management, legal considerations, and interprofessional collaboration.
12. Associated Clinical Sciences
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Integrates related fields such as nutrition, public health, and pharmacology into chiropractic care.
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Highlights how these disciplines inform holistic patient management and wellness promotion.
13. Case History
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Teaches systematic collection of patient information, including chief complaint and medical history.
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Emphasizes effective questioning techniques and documentation for accurate case formulation.
14. Physical Examination
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Reviews general examination procedures: vital signs, posture, and systemic assessment.
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Stresses observation and palpation skills to detect deviations from normal function.
15. Neuromusculoskeletal Examination
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Details specialized tests for joint mobility, muscle strength, and neurologic integrity.
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Combines manual muscle testing, reflex assessment, and range-of-motion measurements.
16. Clinical Laboratory and Special Studies
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Covers interpretation of lab tests (CBC, metabolic panels) and special diagnostics (EMG, nerve conduction).
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Teaches how laboratory data supports diagnosis and monitors treatment outcomes.
17. Diagnosis or Clinical Impression
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Guides synthesis of history, exam, and diagnostic data into a coherent clinical impression.
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Trains you to prioritize findings and formulate provisional and differential diagnoses.
18. Medicine Preparation
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Reviews safe handling, compounding, and dispensing of pharmaceuticals used adjunctively in chiropractic care.
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Emphasizes dosage calculation, stability considerations, and regulatory compliance.
19. Supportive Interventions
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Covers non-manual therapies such as therapeutic exercise, nutrition counseling, and lifestyle modification.
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Highlights adjunctive modalities that enhance chiropractic treatment outcomes.
20. Case Management
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Focuses on developing, implementing, and evaluating individualized patient care plans.
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Emphasizes goal setting, progress tracking, and coordination of multidisciplinary services.
21. Chiropractic Technique
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Details specific adjustment methods (e.g., diversified, Gonstead, activator) and contraindications.
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Teaches precise hand placement, line-of-drive, and patient positioning for safe manipulation.
22. Physiotherapy
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Introduces physical modalities like ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and traction.
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Explains indications, protocols, and monitoring to support musculoskeletal rehabilitation.
What Score is Needed to Pass the NBCE Exam?
Unlike point-based exams, the NBCE uses a scaled-score system for its computer-based Parts I & II and a pass/fail designation for its clinical Parts III & IV. Here’s what you need to hit:
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Part I & II (Basic & Clinical Sciences)
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Scaled Score Range: 200–800
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Passing Standard: A minimum 375 on each individual subject/domain to earn a "Pass."
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Part I Subjects: General Anatomy, Spinal Anatomy, Physiology, Chemistry, Pathology, Microbiology
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Part II Domains: Chiropractic Principles & Practice, Diagnostic Imaging, Neuromusculoskeletal Diagnosis, Clinical Lab & Public Health, Associated Clinical Sciences
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Part III (Practical Skills)
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Format: OSCE-style stations assessing hands-on examination, adjustment techniques, and clinical procedures
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Result: Pass/Fail based on demonstrating competency in each station
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Part IV (Clinical Case Management)
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Format: Live-actor patient scenarios testing diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient communication
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Result: Pass/Fail, requiring satisfactory performance across all cases
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Why This Matters:
Hitting that 375 cut-score in every Part I & II section signals to state boards you’ve mastered the foundational sciences. Earning a Pass in Parts III & IV confirms your hands-on and clinical judgment capabilities.
How do I register for the NBCE exam?
Registering for the NBCE correctly—and early—is essential to securing your preferred test date and avoiding delays in your chiropractic licensure process. Follow these four streamlined steps:
📝 Create Your NBCE e-Profile
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Visit NBCE.net: Click “My Account” and select “New User Registration.”
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Enter Your Details: Provide your legal name, contact information, and a valid email address.
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Set Your Password: Complete your profile setup and verify your email to activate your account.
📘 Apply for Exam Eligibility
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Select the Exam Part(s): Choose Part I, II, III, or IV depending on your curriculum stage and licensure requirements.
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Upload Required Documents:
Part I & II: No prerequisites beyond enrollment status.
Part III & IV: Provide proof of successful completion of Parts I & II.
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Pay the Application Fee: Fees vary by part (typically $200–$300 per part); payment is made securely through your e-Profile.
🏫 Receive Your Authorization to Test (ATT)
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Processing Time: Eligibility approval usually takes 7–10 business days.
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ATT Notification: You’ll receive an email with your ATT and an authorization number—this confirms you can schedule your exam.
📅 Schedule Your Exam at Prometric
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Log into Prometric.com: Use your ATT number to book your appointment.
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Choose Date & Location: Select the nearest Prometric center and your ideal test date.
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Confirm & Note Details: You’ll get a confirmation email with the test center address, reporting time, and check-in instructions.
⏰ Additional Tips
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Book Early: Popular summer and fall dates fill up fast—reserve your seat as soon as you have your ATT.
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Check ID Requirements: The name on your government-issued photo ID must exactly match your NBCE e-Profile.
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Mark Your Calendar: Note deadlines for scheduling, cancellation, and rescheduling to avoid extra fees.
What do I need to know before I register for the NBCE exam?
Before you click "Apply" in your NBCE e-Profile, make sure you’ve lined up these critical items to guarantee a smooth registration and testing experience:
📌 1. Confirm Your Eligibility
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Part I & II (Basic & Clinical Sciences): Open to any student enrolled in or graduated from a CCBC-accredited chiropractic program—no additional prerequisites.
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Part III (Practical Skills): You must have passed all six Part I subjects and the five Part II domains before applying.
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Part IV (Clinical Case Management): Requires successful completion of Parts I–III and documented clinical experience per your state board’s rules.
📌 2. Create & Complete Your NBCE e-Profile
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Account Setup: Go to NBCE.net, select "My Account," then "New User Registration."
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Legal Name Match: Enter your name exactly as it appears on your driver’s license or passport—any discrepancy will block check-in.
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Document Uploads:
For Parts III & IV, be ready to upload your NBCE transcripts showing passing scores.
Some states may require proof of clinical hours or additional affidavits.
📌 3. Understand Fees & Payment
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Application Fees: Vary by part (typically $200–$300 each). Fees are paid securely through your e-Profile at time of application.
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Prometric Scheduling Fee: Included in your application payment—no additional cost when you book your seat.
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Refund & Reschedule Policy: You can cancel or reschedule up to 7 days before your appointment with no penalty; within 7 days, fees are forfeited.
📌 4. Anticipate Processing & Scheduling Timelines
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Eligibility Approval: NBCE processes most applications in 7–10 business days.
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Authorization to Test (ATT): Once approved, you’ll receive an ATT email containing your Prometric scheduling code and a 90-day window to book.
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Prometric Booking: Test centers fill up fast—schedule immediately upon ATT receipt to secure your preferred date and location.
📌 5. ID & Test Center Policies
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Two IDs Required:
Primary: Government-issued, current photo ID matching your e-Profile name.
Secondary: Card with your name and signature (e.g., student ID, credit card).
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On-Site Procedures: Expect fingerprinting, locker storage for personal items, and an on-screen whiteboard—no need to bring pens or scratch paper.
📌 6. Align Your Prep Timeline
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Diagnostic First: Take a full-length practice test to identify weak subjects before locking in a test date.
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Recommended Lead Time: Allow 2–3 months of focused study—cover all Part I & II topics early, then shift to OSCE practice if you’re moving on to Parts III & IV.
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State Board Deadlines: Backdate your exam registration by 6–8 weeks from your intended licensure application to accommodate score reporting and any retakes.
When should I register for the NBCE exam?
Timing your registration strategically helps you lock in your ideal test date, avoid seat shortages, and align with your academic progression:
🗓️ Recommended Registration Timeline
1. As Soon as You’re Eligible
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Part I & II: Typically taken in your 2nd and 4th years of chiropractic school, respectively. Apply through MyNBCE.org the moment your college submits approval—delays can cost you prime slots.
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Parts III & IV: Register immediately after passing Parts I and II and completing required clinical hours.
2. At the Start of a CBT Window
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NBCE now offers computer-based testing at least 14 days per month (excluding May, November, December)—choose an early opening date to maximize center availability.
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For on-campus administrations, check your school’s schedule (e.g., Jan 18–19, Feb 15–16, Mar 22–23, etc.) and register when applications open.
3. 4–6 Weeks Before Your Licensure Deadlines
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Backdate from the week you need scores reported to your state board. Remember, scores post roughly two weeks after the testing window closes.
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Factor in any retake buffer and your board’s application cutoff to ensure you meet all requirements on time.
4. Avoid Peak Months if Possible
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Summer and fall semesters fill rapidly—if your schedule allows, consider quieter months (e.g., February, October) for easier booking and fewer rescheduling fees.
By registering at the earliest opportunity within your eligibility window—and at the opening of a CBT testing window—you’ll secure the best dates and focus fully on mastering the NBCE’s domains with Exam Review’s targeted practice and study tools.
Preparing for Your NBCE Test Day
Whether you’re taking Part I, II, III, or IV, arriving fully prepared with the right identification, materials, and procedural know-how is essential for a smooth NBCE experience.
✅ What to Bring on Test Day:
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Primary ID: Government-issued, current photo ID exactly matching your NBCE e-Profile name (e.g., driver’s license, passport).
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Secondary ID: Another card with your name and signature (e.g., student ID, credit card).
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Authorization to Test (ATT): Printed ATT email or letter from NBCE confirming your eligibility.
⚠️ Note: For Parts I & II (computer-based), scratch paper and pencils are provided. For Parts III & IV (OSCE/live-actor), all materials and mannequins are supplied on-site—no additional tools needed.
🧑💻 Test Center Guidelines
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Arrive Early: Plan to be there 30 minutes before your appointment for check-in and security.
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Security Screening: Expect ID verification, biometric scans or signature capture, and secure storage of personal items (phones, bags, watches).
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Breaks:
Parts I & II: Short breaks between modules; time off-screen counts against your total allotment.
Parts III & IV: No formal breaks—manage your time within each OSCE station.
💻 Testing Environment
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Quiet & Monitored: Surveillance cameras and proctors ensure exam integrity at all times.
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Digital & Physical Tools:
Parts I & II: On-screen timer, digital whiteboard, and scratch paper.
Parts III & IV: Clinical mannequins, diagnostic tools, and standardized patients provided.
📋 Before Exam Day
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Confirm Appointment: Log in to your NBCE e-Profile to verify your test date, time, and location.
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Review Candidate Bulletin: Read the official NBCE guide for rules, exam format, and candidate responsibilities.
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Rescheduling Policy: Changes made less than 7 days before your appointment may incur a fee or be disallowed—plan accordingly.
Are there any prerequisites for taking the NBCE exam?
Unlike some licensing exams, the NBCE doesn’t have universal academic prerequisites—but eligibility depends on both your program status and which exam part you’re taking:
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Parts I & II (Basic & Clinical Sciences):
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Open to any student currently enrolled in or graduated from a CCBC-accredited chiropractic program in the U.S. or Canada.
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Part III (Practical Skills):
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Must have passed all six Part I subjects and all five Part II domains before you apply.
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Part IV (Clinical Case Management):
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Requires successful completion of Parts I–III plus any state-mandated clinical experience hours.
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Always confirm your specific state board’s rules—some jurisdictions may require additional documentation of clinical internships or proof of graduation before you can schedule Parts III and IV.
At Exam Review, our tailored diagnostic quizzes and study plans mirror these eligibility steps so you can register confidently and focus on mastering each NBCE domain.
What happens if I don’t pass the exam?
📄 1. Fail/Pass Report
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Parts I & II: You’ll receive a Pass or Fail for each subject/domain (General Anatomy, Physiology, etc.).
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Parts III & IV: You’ll see a simple Pass/Fail designation based on your OSCE and case-management performance.
🔁 2. Retake Policy
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Unlimited Attempts: You may retake any failed part as often as needed (state board rules may vary).
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Scheduling Windows: Retakes must be booked in the next available CBT window for Parts I & II, or the next OSCE administration for Parts III & IV.
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Reapply & Repay: Each retake requires submitting a new application through your NBCE e-Profile and paying the standard fee for that part.
🧠 3. Study Smarter for Your Retake
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Targeted Content Drills: Focus on subjects where you fell short—run quizzes in General Anatomy, Chemistry, or whichever domain needs work.
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Timed Diagnostic Sets: Practice full-length, timed modules for Parts I & II to build pacing and endurance.
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OSCE Simulations: For Parts III & IV, engage in mock stations or group practice sessions to refine your hands-on and case-management skills.
How long does the licensure last, and what are the renewal requirements?
🕒 Licensure Duration
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Term Length: Most U.S. state boards issue chiropractic licenses valid for 1–3 years.
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Expiration Date: Your license typically expires on a set calendar date or on your birthday—check your state board’s schedule.
🔄 Renewal Requirements
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Continuing Education (CE):
Credit Hours: Generally 24–36 hours per renewal cycle (varies by state).
Approved Topics: Includes chiropractic technique updates, radiology, ethics, patient safety, and physiotherapy modalities.
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Renewal Application & Fees:
Process: Submit your renewal form—online or by mail—through your state board’s portal.
Fee Range: Typically $100–$300, depending on jurisdiction.
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Additional Mandates:
Jurisprudence Exam: Many states require a short open-book law and rules quiz each cycle.
Liability Insurance Proof: Some boards ask for verification of active malpractice coverage.
CPR/First Aid Certification: Often required every other renewal, or on a 2-year cycle.
Set calendar alerts 8 weeks before your license expires. That gives you enough time to complete CE credits, gather documentation, and submit your renewal—keeping your practice active and in full compliance.
What career opportunities are available after taking the NBCE Exam?
Passing all required NBCE parts unlocks a spectrum of professional paths within chiropractic and allied healthcare—here’s where your licensure can take you:
1. Private Chiropractic Practice
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Owner/Operator: Establish your own clinic, set your patient-care philosophy, and build a brand in your community.
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Associate Chiropractor: Join an established practice to gain mentorship, grow your clinical skills, and share overhead costs.
2. Multidisciplinary Healthcare Settings
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Integrative Clinics: Collaborate alongside MDs, physical therapists, and acupuncturists to offer holistic patient care.
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Rehabilitation Centers: Focus on sports injury recovery, post-operative therapy, and chronic pain management within a team environment.
3. Sports & Performance Medicine
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Team Chiropractor: Provide on-site care for athletic teams—from high school and collegiate programs to professional sports franchises.
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Performance Consultant: Work with athletes and trainers to optimize biomechanics, injury prevention, and peak performance.
4. Specialty & Advanced Roles
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Pediatric Chiropractor: Pursue further certification in pediatric care to work exclusively with infants, children, and adolescents.
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Geriatric Chiropractic: Specialize in elderly patient management, addressing age-related musculoskeletal issues and fall prevention.
5. Academia & Research
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Chiropractic Educator: Teach anatomy, technique, or diagnosis at a chiropractic college—shaping the next generation of practitioners.
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Clinical Researcher: Design and conduct studies on chiropractic efficacy, patient outcomes, and best-practice guidelines.
6. Corporate & Consulting Careers
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Healthcare Consultant: Advise hospitals, insurance companies, and wellness brands on integrating chiropractic services and improving patient pathways.
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Medical-Legal Expert Witness: Leverage your clinical expertise to consult on personal-injury cases and provide courtroom testimony.
7. Community & Wellness Roles
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Public Health Initiatives: Partner with schools or nonprofits to deliver spinal-health education and preventive screenings.
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Wellness Coaching: Combine chiropractic insight with nutrition and lifestyle mentoring to help clients achieve holistic well-being.
What is the exam fee for the NBCE exam?
The NBCE exam fees vary by part and format:
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Part I (Basic Sciences):
– Full six-domain exam: $710
– Individual domain retake (per domain): $335
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Part II (Clinical Sciences):
– Full five-domain exam: $710
– Individual domain retake (per domain): $335
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Part III (Practical Skills – OSCE): $710
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Part IV (Clinical Case Management – Live-Actor): $1,585
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Physiotherapy (Optional Specialty): $450
Note: Fees are payable through your NBCE e-Profile at the time of application. Retake fees apply each time you re-apply for a part you did not pass.
How to Study for the NBCE Exam:
A Comprehensive Guide
Preparing for the NBCE exam can be challenging, but with the right tools and mindset, you can go in confidently and succeed. In this guide, you’ll find practical study techniques, essential resources, and expert tips designed to help you master the material and pass the NBCE exam with ease.
1. Understand the NBCE Exam Structure
The National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) exam is a multi-part licensure assessment that evaluates both your foundational science knowledge and your hands-on clinical skills. It’s designed to test your ability to integrate basic sciences with chiropractic principles and to demonstrate practical competency in patient care.
The exam includes:
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Computer-Based Multiple-Choice Modules (Parts I & II):
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Part I (6 Modules): General Anatomy, Spinal Anatomy, Physiology, Chemistry, Pathology, Microbiology
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Part II (5 Modules): Chiropractic Principles & Practice, Diagnostic Imaging, Neuromusculoskeletal Diagnosis, Clinical Laboratory & Public Health, Associated Clinical Sciences
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OSCE-Style Practical Stations (Part III):
Hands-on assessment of examination techniques, adjustment skills, and supportive interventions. -
Live-Actor Case Management (Part IV):
Simulated patient interviews, case formulation, treatment planning, and interprofessional communication.
The NBCE covers integrated content across Foundational Sciences, Clinical Sciences, and Practical Skills & Case Management, and is delivered over two computer-based sessions and two practical exam sessions.
Understanding the NBCE’s multi-modal structure is crucial for organizing your study plan around both in-depth content review and realistic, hands-on practice—ensuring you’re ready to excel from the anatomy lab to the clinic floor.
2. Gather the Right Study Materials
To ensure a comprehensive study experience, invest in high-quality study materials:
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Online Practice Tests: Familiarity with the NBCE exam format is key. Practice tests help you build confidence, improve time management, and identify weak areas. On our platform, you can access 10 full-length practice tests FREE for 7 days — a risk-free opportunity to sharpen your skills before the real exam.
➡️ Start Practicing Now at www.exam-review.com
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Flashcards: Flashcards are a proven tool for memorizing anatomical landmarks, biochemical pathways, and diagnostic criteria. Use our NBCE-specific flashcard decks—or build your own around all exam topics. Short, targeted review sessions with flashcards can supercharge your recall and reinforce the key facts you need to pass the NBCE.
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Video Tutorials: Visual learners can benefit tremendously from watching video tutorials when preparing for the NBCE. While Parts I & II are computer-based multiple-choice exams and Parts III & IV assess hands-on and case-management skills, the NBCE heavily emphasizes clinical reasoning and precise technique. Video guides on topics can make complex material more digestible. Platforms like YouTube host a variety of chiropractic education channels—look for those that focus specifically on NBCE preparation for the most relevant, targeted support.
3. Master Key NBCE Concepts
To dominate each NBCE part, focus your study on these foundational pillars:
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Foundational Sciences (Part I):
– General & Spinal Anatomy: Know bony landmarks, joint articulations, and vertebral biomechanics inside out.
– Physiology & Pathology: Understand normal system function and how disease alters tissue responses.
– Chemistry & Microbiology: Grasp biochemical pathways, pH regulation, and principles of infection and immunity.
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Clinical Sciences (Part II):
– Chiropractic Principles & Practice: Master subluxation theories, adjustment mechanics, and patient positioning.
– Diagnostic Imaging: Identify normal vs. pathological findings on X-ray, MRI, and CT scans.
– Neuromusculoskeletal Diagnosis: Correlate patient history with orthopedic and neurologic test results.
– Clinical Lab & Public Health: Interpret lab panels and apply epidemiology concepts to patient care.
– Associated Clinical Sciences: Integrate nutrition, pharmacology adjuncts, and supportive modalities into treatment planning.
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Practical Skills & Case Management (Parts III & IV):
– Examination Techniques: Hone palpation, range-of-motion, and orthopedic/neurologic exam maneuvers.
– Chiropractic Techniques: Drill diversified, Gonstead, and instrument-assisted adjustments with precision.
– Case History & Clinical Impression: Practice structured patient interviews, SOAP note documentation, and formulating differential diagnoses.
– Treatment Planning & Supportive Interventions: Develop comprehensive care plans incorporating rehab exercises, physiotherapy modalities, and patient education.
Invest focused time on each of these domains—using flashcards, video demonstrations, and simulated OSCEs—to build the deep, integrated knowledge the NBCE demands. At Exam Review, our customized drills and interactive case-based modules map directly to these core concepts, ensuring you’re ready for every NBCE challenge.
4. Practice Skills in a Realistic Setting
Although the NBCE Parts I & II are computer-based and Parts III & IV assess your clinical skills, the exam as a whole evaluates your ability to integrate foundational science with patient-centered care. To prepare effectively, practice applying what you learn in realistic settings:
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Work with case studies to simulate patient history intake, differential diagnosis, and treatment planning decisions.
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Review diagnostic imaging, lab data, and biomechanical analyses to sharpen your interpretation and clinical reasoning skills.
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Participate in group study sessions or mock OSCEs to role-play examinations, adjustments, and case-management discussions.
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Use digital simulators and interactive platforms that mirror NBCE’s on-screen modules and OSCE stations for hands-on technique practice.
Actively engaging with real-world examples helps you build clinical judgment, reinforce integrated concepts, and improve decision-making under pressure—essential for NBCE success.
5. Take Practice Exams Regularly
Practice exams are one of the most effective ways to prepare:
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Timed Practice Tests: Simulate real exam conditions by timing yourself. This can improve your pacing and manage test-day anxiety.
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Analyze Your Results: After each practice test, review your incorrect answers to identify your weaknesses. Focus on these areas in your future study sessions.
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Set Goals: Aim to improve your score with each practice test, working toward a passing score for your state.
Start your free 7-day trial and get 10 realistic tests to track your progress and build confidence. Practice regularly, focus on key areas, and be ready for test day! Try it now at exam-review.com/free-trial-nbce.
6. Create a Study Schedule
Staying organized is key to exam success. Try creating a study schedule that:
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Allocates Time by Topic: Dedicate sessions to Part I topics (e.g., General & Spinal Anatomy, Physiology), Part II topics (e.g., Diagnostic Imaging, Neuromusculoskeletal Diagnosis), and Practical Skills/Case Management (OSCE stations, live-actor cases).
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Mixes Learning Methods: Alternate between reviewing lecture notes and flashcards, drilling computer-based MCQs, and running mock OSCEs or technique demonstrations to keep sessions dynamic.
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Includes Breaks: Taking short breaks during study sessions keeps you refreshed and reduces burnout.
Ideally, give yourself at least 2-3 months to prepare thoroughly. This timeframe allows you to cover all topics at a comfortable pace.
7. Use Memory Aids for Quick Recall
Memory aids like mnemonics and acronyms can simplify complex topics. Here are a few examples:
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SOAP for Case History & Management:
Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan — structures your patient interviews and treatment plans.
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SITS for Rotator Cuff Anatomy:
Supraspinatus, Infraspinatus, Teres minor, Subscapularis — key muscles to recall during Neuromusculoskeletal Examination.
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RICE for Acute Injury Care:
Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation — foundational steps in Supportive Interventions.
Using these memory aids can help you recall information more easily during the test.
Take a NBCE Practice Test
Conclusion
To prepare for the NBCE exam, the best approach is a mix of studying key concepts and practicing with exam-like questions. Regular practice helps you get comfortable with the exam format, time limits, and question types, so you feel confident on test day.
With ExamReview, you have access to a variety of NBCE practice tests that look and feel like the real thing. Our platform lets you track your progress, focus on areas you need to improve and build the skills you need to pass. Get ready for success—practice with ExamReview and head into your NBCE exam feeling confident!
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