NBDE Part I - National Board Dental Examination Practice Test

The NBDE Part I is a one-day, computer-based examination consisting of approximately 400 multiple-choice questions. It is divided into four sessions, with two sessions administered in the morning and two in the afternoon. The exam is integrated, meaning questions from different disciplines (e.g., Physiology and Biochemistry) may be combined within a single item to test applied, interdisciplinary understanding. The test is pass/fail, with results based on a criterion-referenced standard.

The NBDE Part I (and the now-retired Part II) has been replaced by the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE) for most candidates. However, the NBDE Part I remains a valid and accepted pathway for licensure for those who have already passed it. The key difference is that the INBDE integrates basic, clinical, and behavioral science across the entire exam, while the NBDE Part I focused exclusively on the biomedical and dental anatomical sciences. Candidates should verify which exam their state board and intended programs require.

Eligibility is typically granted through enrollment in or graduation from a dental education program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Candidates must submit an application through the JCNDE website, which includes verification of their status from their dental school dean. It is crucial to apply well in advance of your intended test date to allow for processing and to secure a preferred testing appointment at a Prometric test center.

The NBDE Part I uses a criterion-referenced passing standard. You will receive a score of "PASS" or "FAIL"; numerical scores are not provided for passing candidates. Official results are mailed approximately 3-4 weeks after the examination date. These results are reported directly to your dental school and to the state dental boards you designate on your application.

Effective preparation requires moving beyond siloed subject review. Focus on understanding how concepts interlink-for example, how biochemical pathways (Biochemistry) affect cellular function (Physiology) and manifest in tissue changes (Pathology/Histology). Use practice questions and exams that mimic the integrated format. Create study materials that group concepts by organ systems or clinical scenarios, forcing you to apply knowledge from anatomy, physiology, and microbiology simultaneously, as the exam demands.