As a fourth year student, you’re probably busy working on clinics and studying for NAVLE®. But do you know what you need to know, prepare for or expect on your actual NAVLE test day?
We’ve summarized some of the key points that are either good reminders or good information to learn.
For more complete information about your NAVLE® test, check out the ICVA website and NAVLE® Bulletin.
On your test day, you’ll need to bring both photo identification and your scheduling permit with you.
Below are some important details about these items:
While arriving early to important life events is a good rule of thumb, for NAVLE® testing, it is required to be at least 30 minutes early. The ICVA bulletin explains: “You should arrive at the test center 30 minutes prior to your scheduled test appointment. If you arrive after your appointment time, you may not be admitted. If you arrive more than 30 minutes after your scheduled testing appointment, you will not be admitted and must pay a fee to reschedule your test.”
To facilitate arriving early, Dr. Balay, author of an article called “Preparation for Success on the NAVLE®advises, “Know where you are going – maybe consider a trial run to the site to verify location and how long it takes to get there especially if travelling during peak/rush hour times. Is the parking adequate?”(2)
Arriving early allows for the check-in process, which has multiple steps such as :
“After you present the required identification, you will sign a test center log, be photographed, and store your personal belongings in your assigned locker. You may be scanned with a handheld metal detector and asked to empty and turn your pockets inside out before entering the testing room to confirm that you have no prohibited items.”(1)
It’s important to have knowledge and information about the blueprint of the exam as well as species/diagnoses and competencies you will be tested on.
These can be found by following the links below:
Below are some fast facts about the exam:
Displaying any irregular behavior during your exam has very serious consequences. “The ICVA defines irregular behavior as any behavior that threatens the integrity of the examination process. If while taking the NAVLE® examination a candidate shows irregular behavior or violates the test administration rules, that candidate’s potential for licensure could be jeopardized.
The ICVA reserves the right to cancel scores of any candidate who engages in irregular behavior, and also may bar that individual from one or more future administrations, or permanently. Such individuals may also be subject to possible civil or criminal prosecution.”(3)
Every individual tests differently and every individual has a unique perception of their performance. Know that it’s okay to feel worried and have stress about your exam - it is not uncommon for people to feel this way! It’s also totally okay if you felt prepared and feel optimistic about the outcome.
It takes about four weeks to get your scores. They are reported to the board through which you applied. In most cases, you will be notified via email when your scores are available online.
While we’ve summarized some of the key points here, there is so much more to know! Make sure you read the ICVA website and NAVLE Bulletin thoroughly before your exam day. Best of luck in your preparation for the NAVLE®!
References: