How to Study for the NCLE Exam: Complete 2025 Guide
Everything you need to pass the National Contact Lens Examiners certification on your first attempt.
Key Takeaways
- Plan for 6-10 weeks of study, focusing on contact lens fitting and care
- Master base curve, diameter, and power calculations
- Know contact lens materials, care systems, and troubleshooting
- Practice with NCLE-specific questions and scenarios
What is the NCLE Exam?
The National Contact Lens Examiners (NCLE) certification demonstrates your competency in fitting, dispensing, and caring for contact lens patients. It's the gold standard for contact lens professionals.
NCLE Exam Quick Facts:
- • Format: Computer-based, multiple choice
- • Questions: 150 questions (125 scored, 25 pretest)
- • Time Limit: 3 hours
- • Passing Score: Scaled score of 300+
- • Cost: $125 for first attempt
NCLE Exam Content Breakdown
Contact Lens Fitting
~35%Patient evaluation, lens selection, fitting procedures, troubleshooting
Contact Lens Design & Materials
~30%Soft, RGP, specialty lenses, materials, parameters
Care & Maintenance
~20%Solution systems, cleaning, disinfection, patient education
Anatomy & Pathology
~15%Corneal anatomy, complications, contraindications
8-Week NCLE Study Plan
Weeks 1-2: Foundations
Corneal anatomy, tear film, refractive errors, contact lens basics
Weeks 3-4: Lens Types & Fitting
Soft lenses, RGP, toric, multifocal fitting principles
Weeks 5-6: Care Systems & Troubleshooting
Solution types, cleaning protocols, common problems
Weeks 7-8: Review & Practice Tests
Full practice exams, weak area review, test strategies
Top NCLE Study Tips
Master Base Curve Selection
Know how K readings relate to base curve choices for different lens types.
Learn the Troubleshooting Flowcharts
Know how to diagnose and solve common contact lens problems.
Understand Care System Compatibility
Know which solutions work with which lens materials.
Practice Parameter Calculations
Vertex distance conversions, toric calculations, and over-refraction.
Start Your NCLE Prep Today
Our comprehensive course covers all NCLE exam topics with interactive lessons and practice questions.
Start Free ChapterFrequently Asked Questions
Should I take the ABO or NCLE first?
Most people take the ABO first since spectacle dispensing is more foundational. However, if you work primarily with contact lenses, you can take the NCLE first.
Is the NCLE harder than the ABO?
They're different, not necessarily harder. The NCLE is more specialized and requires specific contact lens knowledge. Many find the ABO harder due to more math.
Do I need hands-on experience to pass the NCLE?
While not required, practical experience helps tremendously. If you don't have experience, focus extra time on fitting scenarios and troubleshooting.