What is the CBSE?
The CBSE, or Comprehensive Basic Science Examination, is a scored test administered by the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) for applicants to oral and maxillofacial surgery programs. The exam covers a wide breadth of basic sciences including, but not limited to, biochemistry, pathology, microbiology, and physiology. Because the test covers such a wide scope, that is about as specific as you can get. Although medical students will frequently take the CBSE to prepare for USMLE Step 1, the AAOMS offers a version solely for oral surgery applicants. The exam is not dental based in any way, other than it being a shorter test, and it mirrors the format of the USMLE.
How long is the CBSE?
The test is administered over a period of 4 hours and 15 minutes. No breaks are built in, but you can take one if necessary. However, the time on your exam will continue to elapse. Each block is one hour long, and you must finish a block before moving on to the next. Time between blocks does not roll over. The 15 “extra” minutes are for a tutorial of the exam software.
There are between 184-200 questions on the exam.
The July 2017 exam consisted of 4 blocks of 50 questions with an hour and 15 minutes to complete each block. There was a 15 minute break in between the second and third block.
How often is the CBSE administered?
Traditionally, the CBSE is offered two days a year. For 2022, the first exam will be administered in on February 5 and July 23, 2022.
Where can I register to take the CBSE?
Registration is available on the AAOMS website here. Make sure to register early, because registration usually closes a few months before the date of the exam.
How often can I take the CBSE?
You are able to take the CBSE as many times as you want, and programs will only receive the highest score you submit. Because it is only offered twice a year, applications are due in the fall of D4 year, and you are (usually) unprepared to take the exam your D1 year, the exam can only realistically be taken 3-4 times (most only sit for the exam 1-2 times).
UPDATE (2020): Applicants will be limited to 6 attempts of the CBSE.
How many questions is the CBSE?
The CBSE is 184 questions organized in four, 46-question blocks.
July 2017 exam consisted of 200 questions in four, 50-question blocks.
How is the CBSE scored?
It is scored from 1-99. The overall examination stats for August (’15) are a mean of 56.4, range of 23 to 99, and a standard deviation of 11.2. Your score is emailed to you the week after the exam. The CBSE Data page has past exam stats and information on how scores are sent out.
*Scores are now reported in a three-digit format similar to Steep-1 scores. There are conversion charts available.
How do I study for the CBSE?
Unfortunately, there is not a single, best way to study for the CBSE. It varies per person and the basic sciences education that you recieved. It is important to know that this exam is very difficult and takes a considerable amount of study time. See the CBSE Guide page for more details.
How much does it cost to take the CBSE?
Exam registration costs $185 (as of the August ’18 exam it is $205). For 2022, the cost of the CBSE will be $300.
Where is the CBSE administered?
The CBSE is administered at Prometric (same place you take the DAT). Once you have registered, you will receive an email that allows you to book your seat at a Prometric center.
How much do programs consider the CBSE when ranking applicants?
Although this is program dependent, the CBSE is usually considered one of the most important factors in an application. Dual-degree programs are often known to put more weight on the CBSE because it is considered an indicator of future performance on the USMLE Step 1, which residents of six-year programs must pass.
For up-to-date FAQ, please visit the AAOMS CBSE FAQ section.