What is the BCSE? The Basic and Clinical Sciences Examination explained
Updated 20 October 2026
The Basic and Clinical Sciences Examination (BCSE) is a computer-based veterinary exam for veterinarians who qualified at schools outside the accredited US and Canadian programmes. It tests the basic science and clinical knowledge expected of a new graduate, and it is a required step on the road to licensure in the United States (through the ECFVG) and in Canada (through the National Examining Board).
Who takes the BCSE?
The BCSE is for foreign-trained veterinarians. It was developed by the AVMA's Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG), and Canada's National Examining Board (NEB) also uses it for graduates of non-accredited schools. The two bodies accept each other's BCSE scores.
Eligibility rules, fees and policies change, so confirm the current requirements in the official bulletin before you apply.
BCSE exam format
The official overview describes the BCSE like this:
- 225 questions in one test session of 220 minutes (3 hours 40 minutes).
- 25 of the 225 questions are unscored pretest items. You cannot tell which, so treat every question as if it counts.
- Mostly multiple choice, plus alternative formats such as matching, drag-and-drop and hot-spot questions.
- Many questions use images such as radiographs, clinical photographs and slides.
- Computer-based, taken at Prometric test centres.
What does the BCSE cover?
The exam is organised by domain. Published question ranges include anatomy (about 18 to 20 questions), pharmacology, physiology and toxicology together (about 28 to 32) and pathology (about 20 to 23). The remainder covers further clinical and basic science subjects across species. See the full list on our BCSE subjects and topics page.
Why do some websites say about 200 questions?
The official overview says 225 questions, of which 25 are unscored pretest items. That leaves 200 scored questions, which may be why some sites describe the exam as about 200 questions. Plan for all 225, because you cannot tell which ones are unscored.
How is the BCSE scored?
It is scored on a scale and the ECFVG has set the passing score at 580. Read the BCSE passing score and results guide for what that means in practice.
Where to go next
Learn when and how often the BCSE is offered, how to register, then build your plan with how to prepare for the BCSE and the BCSE study plans.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are on the BCSE?
The BCSE has 225 questions, of which 25 are unscored pretest questions. You have 220 minutes (3 hours 40 minutes).
Is the BCSE multiple choice?
Mostly, yes. It also uses alternative formats such as matching, drag-and-drop and hot-spot image questions.
What is the BCSE passing score?
The ECFVG has set the passing score at a scaled score of 580. Check the latest candidate bulletin to confirm the current figure.
Who developed the BCSE?
The BCSE was developed by the AVMA's Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG). Canada's National Examining Board also uses it.
Where is the BCSE taken?
It is a computer-based exam delivered at Prometric test centres.
Keep reading
- BCSE exam dates: how often is the BCSE offered and how do you choose your date?
- How to register for the BCSE: the ECFVG and NEB routes
- BCSE passing score and results: what a scaled score of 580 means