August 2025
In this VETgirl online veterinary continuing education blog, Dr. Justine Lee, DACVECC, DABT tries to help you out when it comes to preparing for the several month journey (let’s say 100 days!) of studying for the veterinary licensing exam – North American Veterinary Licensing Exam (NAVLE). Tune in to learn more about how to prep, organize, and lay out a strategic plan that blends clinical pragmatism with motivational sanity when it comes to this super stressful NAVLE test. At VETgirl, we know that preparing for the NAVLE can feel overwhelming. We’ve been there. And we want to help you cross that finish line with confidence. You’ve got this!

NAVLE Prep Like a Pro: A VETgirl Guide to Crushing the Veterinary Boards

By Dr. Justine Lee, DACVECC, DABT
Director of Medicine / Founder, VETgirl


If you’re reading this, you’re probably a 3rd or 4th-year veterinary student who’s knee-deep in clinical rotations, case logs, and coffee. The NAVLE (North American Veterinary Licensing Examination) is looming, and it feels like everyone is either panicking, planning, or both. Breathe. You’ve got this.

The NAVLE in a Nutshell

The NAVLE is a 360-question, computer-based exam taken by aspiring veterinarians in the U.S. and Canada. It tests your clinical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and ability to prioritize in real-world scenarios. Most students take it during their final year of veterinary school, typically in the fall or spring testing windows, and starting in 2025-2026 cycle, an additional summer testing window will be offered.

Personal Anecdote: “NAVLE Season and My Kitchen Timer”

Now, in full disclosure, this VETgirl never took the NAVLE. That’s because I’m old and took the National Board Examination (NBE) and the Clinical Competency Test (CCT) – I was also literally the LAST YEAR to take the formerly super-hard California board exam! The CCT test was so old, it included highlighters to un-mask your answer. They stopped the NBE and CCT back in 2000 (Yes, I graduated before that!) and replaced it with the NAVLE.

That said, when I was prepping for the NBE and CCT, I used a literal kitchen timer to keep myself honest. I’d study in 50-minute blocks, walk the dog, and then hit it again. My living room became a fortress of flashcards and highlighters. Some days I felt unstoppable. Other days, I swore I was forgetting everything about bovine GI anatomy. Spoiler: I passed, and you will too.

100-Day Countdown: Strategic Study Schedule

One of the biggest mistakes veterinary students make is waiting too long to start studying. Here’s a sample 100-day countdown that breaks the process into manageable, focused phases. (Click the graphic below to download the 100-Day NAVLE Countdown Schedule as a printable PDF.)

What to Study (And How)

NAVLE success isn’t just about how much time you study—it’s about how strategically you do it. Here’s what to focus on:

  • High-yield species: Dogs, cats, cattle, and horses account for the majority of questions. IMO, study what you don’t know – for me as a small animal veterinary student, I prioritized large animal as that was my weakness!
  • Diseases, especially those with public health significance: In general, think horses, not zebras. Also, think zoonoses for those diseases with public health significance.
  • Diagnostic workflows: Know your differentials, test choices, and next steps.
  • Treatment plans: Especially antimicrobials and parasiticides.
  • Preventive care protocols: Vaccines, deworming, and biosecurity.

Vetted NAVLE Prep Resources

Here’s a curated list of student-loved and board-trusted tools to sharpen your study game:

  • Zuku Review – Comprehensive paid question bank and content review. Ideal for structured learners.
  • VetPrep – Massive question bank with timed quizzes and analytics. Great for tracking progress.
  • Merck Veterinary Manual (Free) – Solid clinical reference. Ideal for cross-checking concepts.
  • VETgirl Podcasts/Webinars – While we don’t have an official NAVLE prep, we do have a few NAVLE-specific episodes and clinical deep dives which can help you, along with some great digital resources!
  • Anki Flashcards (Free/Community-Made) – Spaced repetition is your friend.
  • YouTube: Dr. Cliff’s Vet Review – Focused concept reviews in under 15 minutes.
  • NAVLE Self-Assessment (ICVA) – Official practice exams; gold standard for benchmarking.
  • VIN Boards Discussion Group (Free with vet school account) – Peer support, Q&A, and moral boosts.

Mental Health Matters


Burnout is real, and NAVLE prep can be draining. Schedule in rest days, social time, and activities that fill your cup.

      • Set boundaries: Studying 12 hours/day doesn’t equal success.
      • Stay connected: Form a study group or virtual accountability buddy.
      • Celebrate milestones: Finished a practice exam? Treat yourself.

Final Words of Encouragement

 

The NAVLE is a big test, but it doesn’t define your worth as a future veterinarian. I know lots of brilliant people who didn’t pass the first time. Stay consistent, stay curious, and be kind to yourself throughout the process. You’re not alone—thousands of us have faced this same hurdle (you can find a good thread here) and gone on to do incredible things in the field.

So put on that favorite hoodie, brew another cup of coffee, and dive in. The veterinary world needs you.

You’ve got this.

For more study tips, NAVLE prep advice, and clinical content, subscribe to the VETgirl newsletter or check out our podcast archives.


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