The NAVLE
Introduction
The NAVLE is the baseline national examination for becoming a veterinarian. It covers basic knowledge and problem solving skills vets should know. It is not a measure of success as a veterinarian.
How/when do you take the NAVLE?
The NAVLE is taken fall and/or spring of year 4. Application is required. It is a computer-based exam, comprised of 360 multiple choice questions given over a 7.5 hour time period at a specialized testing center. It is grueling. The 7.5 hours includes a 15 minute orientation and tutorial, 6.5 hours of testing time divided into 6 blocks of 65 minutes each, and 45 minutes of break time, including lunch. Breaks may be taken only between blocks. Each 65 minute block contains 60 items. Security is tight to maintain exam question integrity.
What subjects are being assessed in the NAVLE?
Species breakdown– it just seems to have lots of poultry and swine…
More info: https://www.icva.net/navle/ . Scroll down to the tabs
What if I have testing anxiety?
Testing accommodations are offered if you have a diagnosis. Get to disability services well in advance. If you have testing accommodations, the accommodation letter must be renewed each year.
What if you don’t pass the NAVLE?
You get to retake it. We have approximately 8-12 students each year that have the extra opportunity. It is wise to find a study partner. Alert Academic and Student Affairs if you need to retake it and they can help with creating a study group and/or finding coaches.
Strategies/Suggestions:
- Do the practice tests and go over the distractors to make sure you understand why they are wrong.
- Use a study group. It really helps to talk over and quiz each other.
- Distribute your studying. Do a little each night versus a lot in the last two weeks.
- Mix up the topics you are studying.
- Connect what you are studying to cases you have seen.
- Research cases you have seen and create your own practice questions.
Resources
- UMN NAVLE Prep guides
- Disability resource center
- UMN CVM Academic Resources and Academic Success pages
- Joe Douglass to ask about a VetPAC coach or how to set up accommodations
- Academic and Student Affairs at 612-624-4747
- Vet school unleashed -these and other topics
Final Thoughts
As you review for your cases on clinics, also think in terms of NAVLE.
