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The NEB examination process comprises four 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 Preliminary Surgical Assessment for the CPE (PSA);
- the Clinical Proficiency Examination (CPE).
A graduate of a non-accredited veterinary school must complete all four parts of the foregoing examinations, starting with the BCSE, followed by the NAVLE, the PSA and the CPE (whereas the NAVLE can be attended first and the PSA/CPE thereafter or vice versa) in order to be granted a CQ. Graduates of an accredited veterinary school need only pass the NAVLE within three attempts to be granted a CQ. Moreover, graduates of an accredited college who do not achieve a passing mark on the NAVLE within three attempts must also complete the PSA and CPE 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 who is a graduate of a non-accredited veterinary school must successfully complete the BCSE, the NAVLE, the PSA and the CPE within a 7-year period commencing when the candidate registers with the NEB. A candidate who does not complete the examination sequence within the 7-year period will be required to resubmit registration documentation in line with the current NEB document checklists and re-register with the NEB on the NEB Candidate Portal. In a scenario where a candidate has already successfully passed the NAVLE in the past, this candidate will not be required to retake the NAVLE. However, successful completion of the BCSE is required again before becoming eligible for the PSA and the CPE, if re-registering with the NEB.
All candidates working towards completion of certification requirements will be required to maintain registration in the program by paying the required annual fees towards re-registration.
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.