The NBCE exams at a glance
| Exam | What it tests | Typically taken | Format | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Part I | Basic sciences (six domains) | 2nd year | 255 questions, computer | $710 |
| Part II | Clinical sciences (six domains) | 3rd year | 255 questions, computer | $710 |
| Part III | Clinical competency + imaging (DXI) | Within 9 months of graduation | Case vignettes + imaging, computer | $710 |
| Part IV | Practical case management + technique | Within 6 months of graduation or after | 8-station OSCE, Greeley, CO | $1,585 |
| Physiotherapy | Physiotherapy (elective) | After 120 hours of instruction | 90 questions, computer | $450 |
How the exams are scored
Every NBCE exam reports a scaled score from 125 to 800, and 375 is passing. The NBCE doesn't simply count correct answers. It uses item response theory, so harder questions answered correctly count for more. That's why "what percent do I need?" has no clean answer, and why practicing under real conditions tells you more than a raw practice score. Results post about four weeks after the exam window.
2026 test windows
Parts I, II, III and Physiotherapy share one computer-based calendar in 2026:
- January 10–25
- February 14 – March 1
- March 14–29
- April 11–26
- June 6–21
- July 11–26
- August 8–23
- September 12–27
- October 10–25
- November 7–22
Scheduling closes 17 days before your test date. Rescheduling is free 30+ days out, $50 at 18–29 days, and not allowed inside 17 days. Part IV runs separately, most weekends, at the NBCE Assessment Center in Greeley, Colorado. 2027 dates weren't published as of September 2026.
What your state requires
According to the NBCE, all 50 states accept or require Parts I–IV for licensure, and states set their own Part IV passing standard. Some add their own exams on top, such as a laws-and-rules or jurisprudence exam (Florida, Missouri, Oklahoma and Oregon are examples). Always confirm with the board in the state where you plan to practice.
Practicing for the written exams
Parts I, II, III and Physiotherapy are timed computer exams. The best practice for them is the same: take board-style tests on a computer, on the clock, then study your misses. ChiroEDU's practice exams are built for exactly that:
For daily practice between full exams, ChiroQuiz covers Parts 1 and 2 with 2,500+ board-style questions and instant explanations.
Sources: About the NBCE · Understanding Scores · Deadlines · State Exams · Fee Schedule. Checked September 2026; confirm dates and fees with the NBCE before you register.