Update on changes to the National Examinations

On March 11, 2022, the following changes were approved by the National Examination Committee (NEC) and will come into effect on May 7, 2022:

Eyeglasses Examination

- Section 3 – Measurements

During COVID-19 candidates were not required to measure a near and distance pupillary distance using the pupilometer.  Effective May 7, 2022, the use of the pupilometer will be reinstated.

 - The pass mark for the eyeglass examination will not be affected and will remain 61%.

Contact Lens Examination

- Section 3 – Verification and Lens Design

Effective May 7, 2022, the time limit in this section will be changed from 70 minutes to 45 minutes.

 - Section 4 – Insertion and Removal

During COVID-19 this entire section of the examination had been removed. Effective May 7, 2022, this section will be reinstated. 

- Due to the changes to the contact lens examination during COVID-19 the pass mark was adjusted to 65%. Effective May 7, 2022, the pass mark for the contact lens examination will return to 68%.

 On March 11, 2022, the following decisions were made by the NEC:

- Section 1 – Keratometry and Rx Interpretation

During COVID-19 candidates were not required to measure the k-readings of a live model, candidates were required to take the measurement of an unknown test ball. Effective May 7, 2022, taking k-readings on live models will be permanently removed, candidates will continue to take the readings of an unknown test ball using a manual keratometer.

- Section 3 – Verification and Lens Design

During COVID-19 candidates were not required to measure the base curve(s) of rigid lenses using a radiuscope.  The NEC temporarily extended the removal of the radiuscope and will review its use in the national exam at their next in-person meeting in the fall of 2022.

CHANGES TO VACCINATION MANDATES - February 28, 2022

NAIT and SAIT have announced that they will no longer require proof of vaccination by students, staff and guests attending campuses.  This effects any applicants planning to attend upcoming national examinations held in the province of Alberta.

CLICK HERE for current NAIT pandemic response information

CLICK HERE for current SAIT pandemic response information

Space is limited for all currently scheduled exams.  Do not wait until you have graduated or registered with your provincial regulatory body to apply for your NACOR exams.  APPLY TODAY. 

Application fees will be processed after each application deadline.

• Developing a Prescription from the Refraction
• Refraction Part 1
• The Intake Interview Needs Assessment and Communication
• Screening Tests