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NBCOT Board Exam

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ALISON

Posted: Wednesday, April 09, 2008 5:26 PM

Joined: 3/31/2008
Posts: 50

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DmCOTA

Posted: Tuesday, June 03, 2008 8:46 PM

Joined: 6/3/2008
Posts: 2

I take my boards in 2 weeks! I'm a bit nervous cause i was doing very well in my level II fieldwork and graduated with a 3.75 gpa, but when I take the practice exams I always score at about 70%.(although i know NBCOT scores differently then just the raw average).

I have no questions really, just needed to vent some of my fears.

-Dan

Bonnie

Posted: Saturday, July 05, 2008 11:18 AM

Joined: 7/5/2008
Posts: 3

What kind of grade do you have on the NBCOT to pass?

Bonnie

M.Rardin

Posted: Saturday, July 05, 2008 10:51 PM

Joined: 6/9/2008
Posts: 5

Don't get too stressed out. I was in the same position...good academic and FW student, but felt like I "struggled" with practice tests. Many of my classmates were in the same boat too. We all passed the NBCOT with flying colors. If you're scoring 70-80% consistently, you should be fine on the actual test. To pass you need at least 450 (out of 600).

Bonnie

Posted: Sunday, July 06, 2008 2:01 PM

Joined: 7/5/2008
Posts: 3

Thanks, I will COTA school this fall! I'm excited!

Bonnie

OT-Advantage

Posted: Sunday, July 06, 2008 6:39 PM

Joined: 11/9/2007
Posts: 15

Also, the 450 score is a scaled score. Just an extra tidbit!

Bonnie

Posted: Tuesday, July 08, 2008 8:45 PM

Joined: 7/5/2008
Posts: 3

Thanks for the information.

Bonnie

Lei47

Posted: Monday, July 14, 2008 6:40 PM

Joined: 7/14/2008
Posts: 2

Got any tips for studing for the boards?

I am glad to see I am not the only one nervous about it lol.

I am going to be taking them around oct. (i think) I just want to take it and pass before it changes in 09 but I have to wait to finish my internship...Thanks!

Liz

sugrbiscuit

Posted: Sunday, July 20, 2008 9:27 PM

Joined: 4/10/2008
Posts: 1

Has anyone tried using www.nbcotexam.com Prep Study Guide (for OT)? It has 1,100 things you should know. So far, I have been studying the Rita P Flemming Cottrell OT prep and the Occupational Therapy Examination Review Guide by Johnson, Lorch, and DeAngelis. I have also been reviewing notes from class. I would be grateful for any study tips or any feedback from anyone who has taken the NBCOT exam this year.

Thanks! -christina

ALISON

Posted: Sunday, July 20, 2008 10:19 PM

Joined: 3/31/2008
Posts: 50

Hi,

I did an interview with the President of NBCOT. Check the article out in the 'news' section. He recommended taking the NBCOT online practice exams. There is actually a higher correlation for those who do well with the online exams, they have a greater chance of passing the actual NBCOT exam. Check out the article for some more tips on when they plan on changing the actual exam and online exams (http://ot-advantage.com/ota/articles.aspx?id=1042&__taxonomyid=802).

OT-Advantage

Posted: Wednesday, July 23, 2008 4:51 PM

Joined: 11/9/2007
Posts: 15

Hi OT-ADVANTAGE.COM members,

If you are interested, OT-ADVANTAGE has developed 2 study groups (one for the OTA exam and one for the OTR exam). Please click on 'search profiles' or http://ot-advantage.com/ota/searchprofiles.aspx to find the groups. Feel free to blog, add documents, ask questions, give advice on study tips/materials, and more. Consider it YOUR group.

tel

Posted: Friday, July 25, 2008 5:02 PM

Joined: 7/1/2008
Posts: 3

I was wondering if anyone knows some people having their own study group for the NBCOT exam here in New York City?
or like study partners or something? It would be of great help to me if i could join in one.

Thanks very much.

Robby Lee

Posted: Saturday, October 04, 2008 9:32 AM

Joined: 10/4/2008
Posts: 3

I bought the nbcotexam.com study guide. I read that it was made by students like us and that's why they keep the price down compared to the other ones out there. It's downloadable right away too, so that's a plus. It was great for making my own flash cards on stuff I was short on.

For the 2009 exam, my currenty faculty said the exam will be a little different (simulation) but the study material should be the same, so any material (I.E Rita Flemming book) will be very useful!

I'm scheduled to take the test in December so wish me luck!

Thanks!

Robby

mairby

Posted: Monday, November 03, 2008 8:53 PM

Joined: 11/3/2008
Posts: 2

I have taken my board exam twice and failed the first time by 2 points making a 448 and the second time by three points making a 447. I have never done well with standardized tests, but did well in school making good grades (A's and B's) and doing great on both of my fieldworks. I have read and studied the entire NBCOT study guide and taken the practice exams multiple times. I felt like I did so much better on my second exam, but yet again failed. Is there anything I can do differently to better prepare myself for my third try at the exam on Nov. 26th? Any advice or suggestions would be much appreciated!

mairby

Posted: Wednesday, November 05, 2008 7:56 PM

Joined: 11/3/2008
Posts: 2

I had anxiety with my first test but not really for my second test. I knew what to expect the second time so I felt confident and prepared. Thanks for your suggestions! Hopefully I'll pass it this time!!

Chana

Posted: Thursday, November 06, 2008 4:30 PM

Joined: 4/12/2008
Posts: 4

Hi! My name is Chana. I am finishing up my last fieldwork in two weeks. I am planning on taking the OTR exam some time in January. I am looking for people to study with during December and January. Is there anyone in the Baltimore/Washington DC area who will be studying for the OTR exam during this time frame? Also, what study materials do people recommend to use to prepare for the OTR exam? Thanks!

-Chana

Rin

Posted: Wednesday, November 12, 2008 7:50 PM

Joined: 4/16/2008
Posts: 1

Hi,

I don't really understand what NBCOT means by the "simulation portion" of the 2009 exam. Does anyone have any insight? Thanks!

Alice H

Posted: Wednesday, November 19, 2008 3:46 PM

Joined: 4/13/2008
Posts: 4

Hi!

I just took the OTR exam last week, and just found out that I failed when I checked from nbcot website. I am very depressive, and do not know why my preparation is wrong.

I used [1] "National Occupational Therapy Certification Exam, review & study guide--Rita P. Fleming-Castaldy; 4th Ed." (bought from www.therapyed.com) and [2] "Occupational Therapy Examination Review Guide--Caryn R. Johnson, Arlene Lorch, and Tina DeAngelis; 3rd Ed." Did I use the wrong materials? Is there any other helpful materials that I should use?

I also found that there are only about 2-4 simulation tests offered from nbcot website for 2008 test takers. Does anybody know how to practice more simulation tests, or where should I get the old exam questions to practice?

I'm a bit frustrated.. I had a great..or... at least not bad gpa for both my bachelor and master ot, but I still failed. Is that because my entry-level ot education is not in the US? (I have my bachelor OT outside the US, and have my master in the US.) Is there anyone who has similar background like me can give me some suggestions?

Thanks a lot!

Alice

SI-Peds-COTA

Posted: Tuesday, December 16, 2008 2:54 PM

Joined: 12/16/2008
Posts: 1

Hello All,
Could anyone elaborate on the question/answer format that is used for NBCOT questions? It seems that all the practice questions are situational questions (domain-based questions) rather than task or knowledge questions. I am taking the exam in January, but am not used to studying for questions such as these. Someone mentioned that there is always two right answers out of the four multiple choice answers presented. I am interested to know more about this. It seems what I am having the most trouble with on my practice questions is that many of the answers could be applicable, but they are looking for the best solution out of many. I am much more familiar with a "right or wrong" question/answer format. Does anyone have any strategies regarding this style of questioning?

ALISON

Posted: Thursday, December 18, 2008 11:21 AM

Joined: 3/31/2008
Posts: 50

Click on these resources, provided by NBCOT. It fleshes out the myths and facts about the exam.

OTA Test Format *Once on the site, visit OTA Presentation

OTR Test Format *Once on the site, visit OTR Presentation

2009 Exam Candidate Information

Another way to keep up on what is happening or other students study techniques is to check out the NBCOT study group. You can find it in the 'groups' section of this site. There is a blog, wall postings, and a document sharing area if you want to form a study group. I

f you are worried about the 2 wrong/2 right answers, read the test format, as it may ease your worry. And if your curriculum is like most, the professors have been setting their tests and finals up to simulate the question format of the NBCOT exam. Best of luck with studying!

OTSarah

Posted: Friday, January 16, 2009 9:11 AM

Joined: 1/16/2009
Posts: 3

Hello,

Maybe there is someone out there that can help me out. I bought the National Occupational Therapy Certification Exam book by Fleming-Castaldy 2008 version a while ago thinking I would be able to take the exam prior to the end of 2008. However, things came up and I was unable to do so. Therefore I will need to take the exam this year. However, I still have the 2008 version of the book and am hesitant about buying the 2009 version if its exactly the same as the 2008 version but with now the new simulation section. Instead of having to purchase a whole new book, does anyone know where I can get practice examples for the simultion section of the exam, or at least give some examples so that I am not going into the testing center without first practicing this section first? I have read over the powerpoints for the new section on the NBCOT websit and other information regarding how the questions will be asked but would like to try some practice examples that are mainly the simulation part.

Chana

Posted: Monday, February 02, 2009 2:06 PM

Joined: 4/12/2008
Posts: 4

Hi everyone, I was wondering if anyone had any study tips. I have been studying for about 4 weeks now (~5hours a day) and I've been using the the 2009 Fleming-Castaldy study guide. I just took the second practice test and I feel like I have not made much progress in my studying as my score did not improve. I feel like I am getting the hang of the CST items, but am still having a lot of trouble with the MC items that ask for the "best", "most important", or "most appropriate" action as the answer. I'd appreciate any advice anyone can offer about studying, thanks!

-Chana

ALISON

Posted: Wednesday, February 04, 2009 9:33 AM

Joined: 3/31/2008
Posts: 50

Hi Chana,

Sounds like you are studying hard! I know this is the most important exam you will take, but try not to get burnt out, 5 hours a day is quite a bit of time to study. If it is any consolation, the majority of the people taking practice exams fail or have a low score. If you are hovering around the same score each time, chances are you are in the majority of those studying-hang in there.

Trying to find the best answer is difficult and it makes more sense later in your OT practice. That doesn't help you now, but look for those words that help to break down the question. Look for the type of setting, age, diagnosis, intervention/ethical/evaluative stem... If you are being asked a question about an acute injury, you can relay on your textbook knowledge that the interventions will differ from that of one in an outpatient setting. You can normally throw out the wrong answers immediately. Then you are torn between 2 answers that seem right. The correct answer makes the most sense, given the stem.

Good luck with your studies.

karenbleuu

Posted: Sunday, February 15, 2009 12:22 AM

Joined: 9/15/2008
Posts: 4

HI My name is Karen. I need a study partner to take the NBCOT exam in March 2009. I live in Maryland.

Anonymous

Posted: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 4:59 PM

Does anyone know if the test is different if you have to retake it? This being the 09' test.

Kari

Posted: Sunday, March 01, 2009 6:15 PM

Joined: 8/9/2008
Posts: 3

Hi Karen

I will also be taking the exam in March.

Let me know if you still need a study partner?

Even for a short while.

-Kari

Chana

Posted: Tuesday, March 03, 2009 2:35 PM

Joined: 4/12/2008
Posts: 4

Hi Karen, I also live in Maryland, and was actually looking for a study partner a few months ago. I just took the exam a week and a half ago, and found out last friday that I passed. I ended up just studying on my own for six solid weeks using the Fleming-Castaldy study guide. I got really discouraged during that time as my practice test scores were in the high 50's to low 60's, but I was fine on the actual exam. Do you have a date scheduled yet? Good luck with your studying!

-Chana

Mila

Posted: Wednesday, March 11, 2009 11:39 PM

Joined: 3/11/2009
Posts: 2

Mila

Posted: Wednesday, March 11, 2009 11:47 PM

Joined: 3/11/2009
Posts: 2

Mila wrote:

I am trying to pass exam but unfortunately, ... Please, if somebody took it let me know how hard simulated test

tonia11552

Posted: Friday, March 20, 2009 1:03 PM

Joined: 3/20/2009
Posts: 4

What happens if you fail once and you have to take it again what if you fail again can you take it again???? not saying i failed I am just worried and i need to know

????

Rissa

Posted: Saturday, March 21, 2009 3:27 PM

Joined: 10/18/2008
Posts: 3

yes u can take it again. I am taking the exam this month. would u like to study together?

Rissa

Posted: Saturday, March 21, 2009 3:28 PM

Joined: 10/18/2008
Posts: 3

is there anybody out there that wants to form a study group...im from detroit

OT-Advantage

Posted: Tuesday, March 24, 2009 8:46 AM

Joined: 11/9/2007
Posts: 15

OT Advantage will be hosting live-online study courses. If you are interested in studying together, there are group sessions during the course. Stay tuned...the sign-up for the course will be posted on OT-ADVANTAGE.COM April 1, 2009! Please email your questions to examprep@ot-advantage.com or comment on this forum. Also, if you have comments on what you would like to be included in the course post it to the forum. Good luck with your studies!

tonia11552

Posted: Thursday, March 26, 2009 9:39 AM

Joined: 3/20/2009
Posts: 4

Thanks but what happens to your job and I would love to study but I live in Pennsylvania.

Queala

Posted: Thursday, March 26, 2009 3:23 PM

Joined: 3/26/2009
Posts: 1

I'm in Detroit and would be interested in studying for the exam, I plan to take it in April.

karenbleuu

Posted: Wednesday, April 01, 2009 6:10 PM

Joined: 9/15/2008
Posts: 4

You need to study by making outlines. Thats how I passed

Chana

Posted: Wednesday, April 01, 2009 6:52 PM

Joined: 4/12/2008
Posts: 4

Congratulations Karen!!!

karenbleuu

Posted: Thursday, April 02, 2009 12:46 AM

Joined: 9/15/2008
Posts: 4

Thanks.

Kari

Posted: Saturday, April 04, 2009 3:29 PM

Joined: 8/9/2008
Posts: 3

Hi Karen,

Congrats! on passing.

I took it in March for the second time and failed!! I am devastated and feel like I know all the material but when it comes to the computer test I don't know what happens. I study soooo much so I am at a loss as to what to study over this time.
I could use some help!

-Kari

OTSarah

Posted: Sunday, April 12, 2009 8:27 AM

Joined: 1/16/2009
Posts: 3

I took my first exam back in January and failed :o( Now I want to take it again ASAP. Is the process any different the second time around? Do i need to get another ATT letter? And how do I go about doing this? Do i first sign up and pay for my exam before applying for the ATT letter? Its been a couple months since I filled out all these applications that I forgot what the whole process is again. If anyine can help me out that would be great! Thanks!

HarmeetOT

Posted: Monday, April 13, 2009 12:10 PM

Joined: 4/11/2009
Posts: 7

Hello.

I too failed it 2ce and is struggling to study again for the 3rd time around. Should I focus all my studying on reading my text books this time? Or should I just take practice tests n read the questions better? Kinda could use some advice. Also if there is anyone in the san jose, ca area i am willing to meet up with anyone who would like to study.Ttwo brains are better than one

examprep

Posted: Tuesday, April 14, 2009 5:02 AM

Joined: 4/14/2009
Posts: 16

Check out my profile for special offers and study tips, subscribe to my blog, or email me a question. Good luck with your studies. Don't forget to sign-up for one of the OT Advantage Online Exam Prep Courses. More participants are needed for the pilot courses offered!

OT Advantage Exam Prep Course

Sign-Up Today

OTA Exam Prep

OTR Exam Prep

ocherrie82

Posted: Thursday, April 16, 2009 12:00 AM

Joined: 4/15/2009
Posts: 1

Is anyone looking for a study partner(s) in northern NJ!?!?!?!?!? I really could use some help in passing my exam, the 2nd time.....

cer32386

Posted: Wednesday, April 29, 2009 9:42 PM

Joined: 4/29/2009
Posts: 2

Hi,

I have taken my exam Three times, Yes thats three, I came six points away the second time, and I am awaiting my results on this past time. Its just soo frustrating because I know my info, and I did so well in school. I dont know if Im just not getting the questions or how to prepare for the questions. Does anyone have any tips? Thanks

Cera

leslie

Posted: Monday, May 04, 2009 11:47 AM

Joined: 12/22/2008
Posts: 11

HI. Has anyone taken the online interactive course for the NBCOT eam? Please provide input...thanks

Robby Lee

Posted: Tuesday, May 05, 2009 7:00 PM

Joined: 10/4/2008
Posts: 3

Use the "Rita" Guide and Study your school notes! If you don't have good notes, get the ones made by students at Nbcotexam.com. I think it's only 20 dollars. I did and found material I didn't even learn in my own classes. The simulations are based on what you should know!! I don't know of any software simulations yet so Study your school notes back and forth, and you will be fine. GOOD LUCK!

HarmeetOT

Posted: Wednesday, May 06, 2009 1:19 PM

Joined: 4/11/2009
Posts: 7

Leslie if you are talking about the Castleworld online exams that you need to purchase.. ya i have taken them. They are pretty dead on.. on how the questions are on the actual NBCOT exam. It's helpful to learn how to read the questions better and pick up on all the keywords that they provide. I keep telling myself for each question:

1) what are they asking for?
2) and what is not appropriate?

If you keep those questions in mind... i think we might just pass this exam!

ejackson

Posted: Wednesday, May 06, 2009 3:45 PM

Joined: 5/6/2009
Posts: 3

I have taken the new exam and failed. I have all the necessary study tools. I really want to form a study group in the MD, DC or VA area. I feel study groups really help.

ejackson