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100+ Free NBEO Part I Practice Questions

Pass your NBEO Part I Applied Basic Science (ABS) exam on the first try — instant access, no signup required.

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2026 Statistics

Key Facts: NBEO Part I Exam

~300

Exam Questions

Two 3-hour sessions

6 hrs

Total Test Time

Full day exam

$575

Exam Fee

NBEO

~90-95%

First-Time Pass Rate

Estimated

Year 2

Typically Taken

After 2nd year of OD program

NBEO Part I has approximately 300 questions in two 3-hour sessions (full day exam). It covers anatomy and physiology (30%), optics (20%), pharmacology (20%), microbiology and pathology (15%), and biochemistry (15%). Typically taken after the second year of optometry school. A criterion-referenced scaled score determines passing. Required for optometry licensure in all U.S. states.

About the NBEO Part I Exam

NBEO Part I Applied Basic Science (ABS) tests foundational knowledge for optometry including ocular anatomy and physiology, optics, pharmacology, microbiology, pathology, neuroanatomy, and biochemistry as applied to vision science and clinical optometry.

Questions

100 scored questions

Time Limit

6 hours (two 3-hour sessions)

Passing Score

Criterion-referenced scaled score

Exam Fee

$575 (NBEO (National Board of Examiners in Optometry))

NBEO Part I Exam Content Outline

30%

Anatomy & Physiology

Ocular anatomy, neuroanatomy of vision, visual pathways, extraocular muscles, orbital anatomy, and ocular physiology

20%

Optics

Geometrical optics, physical optics, ophthalmic lenses, visual optics, aberrations, and optical instruments

20%

Pharmacology

Ocular and systemic pharmacology, drug mechanisms, glaucoma medications, anti-infectives, and anti-inflammatory agents

15%

Microbiology & Pathology

Ocular pathogens, immunology, infectious disease, ocular and systemic pathology, and inflammatory processes

15%

Biochemistry

Ocular biochemistry, visual cycle, tear film composition, lens metabolism, retinal biochemistry, and nutritional science

How to Pass the NBEO Part I Exam

What You Need to Know

  • Passing score: Criterion-referenced scaled score
  • Exam length: 100 questions
  • Time limit: 6 hours (two 3-hour sessions)
  • Exam fee: $575

Keys to Passing

  • Complete 500+ practice questions
  • Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
  • Focus on highest-weighted sections
  • Use our AI tutor for tough concepts

NBEO Part I Study Tips from Top Performers

1Anatomy and physiology is the largest section (30%) — master ocular anatomy, neuroanatomy of the visual pathway, extraocular muscle actions, and orbital anatomy thoroughly
2For optics, practice calculations involving vergence, lens power, magnification, Prentice rule, and ray tracing until they become automatic
3Study pharmacology by mechanism of action — group drugs by class (beta-blockers, prostaglandins, CAIs, alpha-agonists) and know their side effects
4Create tables comparing ocular pathogens — bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites — with their characteristic clinical presentations
5Review biochemistry of the visual cycle (rhodopsin regeneration), tear film layers and composition, and lens metabolism (sorbitol pathway)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is NBEO Part I?

NBEO Part I, also called the Applied Basic Science (ABS) exam, tests foundational science knowledge for optometry. It covers ocular anatomy and physiology, optics, pharmacology, microbiology and pathology, and biochemistry. It is typically taken after the second year of the Doctor of Optometry (OD) program and is required for optometry licensure in all U.S. states and territories.

How many questions are on NBEO Part I?

NBEO Part I contains approximately 300 multiple-choice questions administered in two 3-hour sessions during a full testing day. The questions cover five content areas: anatomy and physiology (30%), optics (20%), pharmacology (20%), microbiology and pathology (15%), and biochemistry (15%). The passing standard is criterion-referenced, meaning it is based on a minimum competency level rather than a curve.

When should I take NBEO Part I?

NBEO Part I is typically taken after the second year of optometry school (between the second and third years), when basic science coursework has been completed. The exam is offered during specific testing windows throughout the year. Most OD programs integrate Part I preparation into their curriculum. Taking it on schedule is important as Parts I, II, and III must all be completed for state licensure.

How should I study for NBEO Part I?

Effective NBEO Part I study strategies include: reviewing ocular anatomy and neuroanatomy of vision (30% of exam), practicing optics calculations and lens problems, studying ocular pharmacology mechanisms and drug classes, reviewing microbiology (ocular pathogens) and immunology, and understanding biochemistry of the visual cycle and lens metabolism. Most students study 4-6 months alongside coursework. Use KMK review materials, practice questions, and study groups.