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Technical Requirements

Standard NBME Web-Based Testing Requirements

The standard NBME web-based testing requirements outlined below apply to exams delivered over both wired and wireless networks. Examinees may take a web-based exam on either Macs or PCs. Any combination of fixed desktops, institutional laptops or examinee personal laptops may be used for exam delivery.

Dedicated technical support staff with "Admin" privileges is required prior to and on the test days.
Hardware Requirements
  • Windows 10, Windows 11
  • Mac OS 10.14, 10.15, 11.0, 12.0
  • 1 GHz processor or higher
  • 17" or larger color monitor (Desktops)
  • 13" or larger color monitor (Laptops)
  • A minimum screen resolution of 1024x768
  • 32-bit color setting enabled
  • Turn off Windows updates or virus scanner updates to avoid interruptions during the exam.
  • Virtual machines and applications are not allowed
  • iPads/tablets are not allowed
Browser
  • Microsoft Edge1
  • Safari 12 or higher
  • Google Chrome1
  • Mozilla Firefox1
  • Do not use beta versions. Other browsers are not supported.

1Edge, Chrome and Firefox support is limited to the current version plus one previous version due to forced automatic updates.
Browser Settings
  • JavaScript, CSS, and Cookies all enabled
  • Pop-up enabled
  • Disable toolbars, and Adware/Spyware programs to prevent slowness
Internet Bandwidth
  • Broadband (DSL, Cable or T1)
  • 256Kbps or higher per workstation (including internet access)

Institutional technical support staff with admin privileges is required prior to and on test day(s) to assist examinees with any technical issues that may arise.



ISE Important Dates

January 31
Registration deadline

February 7
Notification of test day accommodations due in writing to ASPS
Example: Extended time requests, untimed break requests, location changes from resident's home program
Send all requirements to ahoffman@plasticsurgery.org

February 28
Workstation certification and facility confirmation deadline

March 6
Exam day

Mid-April
Score reports are made available through the NBME Portal for programs then residents
*Watch for communication from the NBME