NBCOT
Overview
The NBCOT exam is a 4-hour, computer-based certification test for Occupational Therapists (OTR) and Assistants (COTA), assessing entry-level competency through multiple-choice, multi-select, and clinical simulation questions across four (OTR) or three (COTA) key domains: Evaluation/Assessment, Intervention Planning, Intervention Management, and Practice Management. It’s criterion-referenced, requiring a minimum score of 450 to pass, testing clinical reasoning alongside content knowledge to ensure safe, effective practice.
The NBCOT exam (OTR/COTA) is a 4-hour, 180-item computer-based test featuring single-response multiple-choice questions (3-4 options) and multi-select scenario sets (6 options, choose 3 correct), testing entry-level knowledge with a focus on clinical reasoning. You can flag questions for review, and there’s no penalty for incorrect answers, so answer everything within the timed session, which includes optional breaks but stops the clock for re-entry.
Key Features:
- Format: Computer-based, 180 questions/items total, 4 hours.
- Question Types:
. Single-Response Multiple Choice:
Standard best-answer questions (3-4 options).
. Multi-Select Scenario Sets: Open with a scenario, then 4 related items, requiring you to choose the three best answers from six options.
. Clinical Simulation Tests (CSTs):
Yes/No format for specific areas, presented within the test.
- Navigation: Can flag items for review and change answers during the test.
- Scoring: Criterion-referenced (pass/fail), no points deducted for wrong answers.
- Breaks: Allowed, but the clock keeps running.
Important Points: - Answer every question, as there’s no penalty for guessing.
- Review the official NBCOT exam outline for content breakdown.
- Familiarize yourself with the Yes/No format of CST items.
How is the Exam Scored?
Refer to NBCOT’s scoring calendar for details on when scores will be released and when you need to take the exam to be included in a specific score release date.
If you were approved to test on a DVF, your score will be released on the scoring date only if your transcript is processed before that date. If your transcript has not been processed, your score will not be released until we receive and approve your official final transcript.
If your transcript is approved after the original scoring date has passed, your score will be released in 24-48 business hours from the approval. You do not need to wait until the next scoring date. Your score will also be released to any state licensing boards you requested within the same time frame.
Key Aspects of the Exam
Scheduling Your Exam
Once your exam application is approved, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) letter by email and in your MyNBCOT account. This letter authorizes you to take the certification exam and provides instructions on how to schedule. It also provides information on the IDs that you need to bring to verify your identity at the test center. Some candidates with testing accommodations may have specific scheduling instructions. Please refer to your ATT letter for details on how to schedule with testing accommodations.
Appointment Length
Please note that your appointment length is longer than the exam time. The APPOINTMENT LENGTH includes ALL components of the testing appointment, including the exam introduction, tutorial, etc. The EXAM TIME is the time that is allocated only for answering and reviewing exam questions. The standard exam time is 4 hours.
Rescheduling or Canceling Your Exam
Exams can be rescheduled or canceled by clicking the “Sign in” button on the right. Rescheduling or canceling must be done at least 48 hours before your appointment.
NBCOT Exam Eligibility
To be eligible for the NBCOT exam (for OTR or COTA), you must graduate from an accredited occupational therapy/assistant program (ACOTE-accredited in the U.S.), meet specific degree requirements (Master’s for OTR, Associate for COTA), complete all coursework and fieldwork, and apply through the NBCOT portal after verification, ensuring you’re within the timeframe after graduation. International candidates have separate eligibility pathways via the OTED process.
Requirements for Foreigners Taking the NBCOT Exam
Foreign-educated occupational therapists must successfully complete the Occupational Therapist Eligibility Determination (OTED) process before they can register for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam. The purpose of the OTED is to ensure that your academic preparation and fieldwork are comparable to the current U.S. entry-level educational standards.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the OTED process, you must meet specific education requirements, such as holding an entry-level master’s degree or a bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy combined with a post-professional master’s or doctoral degree in occupational therapy or a master’s degree in a related field. NBCOT does not accept foreign-educated occupational therapy assistants (COTA candidates) for certification.
The OTED Process
The OTED process involves submitting several official documents for evaluation, including official transcripts, verification forms for academic credentials, course syllabi, documentation of any occupational therapy license or certification, a history of professional practice, and potentially national government recognition documentation. This process requires a fee and can be time-consuming, so it is advisable to start early.
After OTED Approval
Upon successful completion of the OTED process and receiving approval, which is valid for seven years, you become eligible to apply for the OTR certification exam.
Additional requirements for internationally educated candidates may include:
English Language Proficiency: A passing score on an approved English-language proficiency exam may be required, unless you graduated from a program in specific English-speaking countries.
State Licensure: Passing the NBCOT exam is a national requirement, but practicing in a U.S. state also requires meeting that state’s individual licensure requirements, which are managed by separate state occupational therapy boards.
For detailed information and application forms, consult the “For Internationally Educated” section on the official NBCOT website.
How we assist candidates in clearing this exam.
Exact examination Q&A bank
Have you already booked your exam date and still not find yourself ready for the exam? Contact us for specific guides containing just exact questions and answers to prepare and guarantee you with good passing scores
Previous Score upgrade
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Direct certificate:
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