AOBNMM NMM/OMM exam-day guide
AOBNMM NMM/OMM · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the same name and ID type you used on your application. Confirm with the provider which forms of ID are accepted and whether a second form is required.
Admission or scheduling confirmation
Print or save a copy of your scheduling/admission notice showing your candidate number, date, time, and test-center location. Confirm with the provider whether a printed copy is required.
Arrival time and check-in window
Plan to arrive well before your scheduled start to allow for check-in and security screening. Confirm with the provider the exact arrival time and the late-arrival cutoff.
Approved attire and lab coat
Wear clean, professional attire suitable for a hands-on practical exam. Confirm with the provider whether a white coat is required, optional, or prohibited, and any rules on sleeves, jewelry, or name badges.
Personal stethoscope (if permitted)
Bring your own stethoscope if the provider allows personal equipment. Confirm with the provider whether personal instruments are permitted or whether all equipment is supplied.
Grooming and hand hygiene readiness
Plan short, clean fingernails and arrive ready for hand hygiene between stations. Confirm with the provider any specific nail, glove, or hand-hygiene requirements.
Watch with a second hand or silent timer
A simple, non-smart timing device can help you track station time, but confirm with the provider whether any timing devices are allowed in the testing area.
Leave electronics and valuables at home or in the car
Phones, smartwatches, and other devices are typically restricted in the testing area. Confirm with the provider the policy on personal items and secure storage.
Review the candidate orientation and station format
Know the exam's general structure (e.g., timed stations, standardized patients, proctors) and any published candidate instructions. Confirm with the provider the current station format and timing.
Plan your travel and backup transportation
Identify the test-center location, parking, and an alternate route in advance. Build in a buffer for traffic or transit delays.
Confirm scoring and result-release process
Understand how the practical is scored and when/how results are released. Confirm with the provider the current scoring method and timeline.
Rest, hydration, and a light meal
Practical exams are physically demanding. Prioritize sleep the night before and eat a light meal beforehand. Confirm with the provider any rules about food or drink in the testing area.
Plan the day
Re-read the official candidate instructions and confirm your test-center location, arrival time, and what is permitted or prohibited. Practice timed hands-on sequences with a partner (e.g., setup, technique, and cleanup within the station time). Confirm with the provider any last-minute logistics you are unsure about.
Pack your ID, confirmation notice, and approved attire/equipment. Lay out clothes and confirm transportation. Do a light review of station flow and hand-hygiene routines rather than cramming new material. Get a full night's sleep.
Eat a light meal, hydrate, and arrive at the test center early. Recheck that you have your ID and confirmation. Leave electronics secured per provider policy and follow check-in instructions.
Listen carefully to proctor instructions and orientation. Read each station prompt fully before acting, manage your time, and perform hand hygiene as directed. If you are unsure of a rule or timing cue, ask the proctor rather than guessing.
Rules to check
Bring the ID required by the provider and ensure the name matches your application. Confirm with the provider the accepted ID types and whether a second form is needed.
Arrive by the stated check-in time; late arrivals may be denied entry. Confirm with the provider the exact arrival time and late-arrival policy.
Follow all proctor instructions and testing-area rules, including restrictions on electronics, notes, and personal items. Confirm with the provider the current prohibited-items list.
Breaks, if any, are typically at scheduled points and may be limited. Confirm with the provider the break policy and whether leaving the testing area is permitted.
The practical is scored by trained examiners using defined criteria; know the general domains assessed. Confirm with the provider the current scoring method and passing standard.
Maintain professional conduct and patient safety at all times; unsafe or unprofessional behavior may affect scoring. Confirm with the provider how safety and professionalism are evaluated.
Do not discuss or disclose specific exam content after the test. Confirm with the provider any confidentiality agreement you must sign.