Join Us as a Standardized Patient at the NBEO



Come be a part of something meaningful at the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) in Charlotte, North Carolina, where our mission is to protect the public by ensuring the competency of optometric candidates. Annually, we administer in-person clinical examinations for over 2,000 experienced optometry students from the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico who are seeking licensure to practice. We’re looking for individuals to serve as Standardized Patients and join a unique, team-based culture.


What Is a Standardized Patient (SP)?


A standardized patient carries multiple responsibilites. SP's allow candidates to demonstrate clinical decision making, clinical skills, effective communication, and diagnostic techniques in a realistic and controlled environment.



Why Become an SP?


What Will You Experience as a Standardized Patient (SP)?


SPs are asked to portray real-life patients by simulating specific symptoms, concerns, or eye-related conditions. You may also experience the following:

Front of the Eye (Anterior Segment) Exams

Candidates may perform the following eye procedures under the supervision of licensed optometrists:
Biomicroscopy
A close examination of the front parts of the eye using a specialized microscope. This includes assessing the eyelids, eyelashes, tear drainage system, conjunctiva (eye surface), sclera (white of the eye), cornea, iris (colored part), and natural lens. It may also involve gently turning the upper eyelid inside out to view the inner surface.
Goldmann Applanation Tonometry
A test that lightly touches the surface of the eye to measure internal eye pressure. Numbing drops are used to ensure comfort.
Gonioscopy
A procedure using a special contact lens placed on the eye (after numbing drops) to examine the drainage angle, which is important for evaluating glaucoma risk.

Back of the Eye (Posterior Segment) Exams

Binocular Indirect Ophthalmoscopy
A technique using a light and handheld lens to view the outer edges of the retina (the back layer of the eye).
Dilated Biomicroscopy and Non Contact Fundus Lens Evaluation
Candidates will use a lens and microscope to examine internal eye structures, including the lens, vitreous (gel inside the eye), retina, optic nerve, and macula (central vision area).

Standardized Patient Testimonials


Hear from some of our current SP’s about why they love working as an SP and would recommend the position to friends and family:

"I love that I am helping the students on the road to their career, as well as getting to know interesting people that I work with.”


“I liked being able to play a part in someone's future career as an Optometrist.”

"I would absolutely recommend this job to a friend because this has been the most positive environment that I have ever worked in. There is a lot of support from everyone and the testing is done in a way that you feel confident in doing the job on your own.”

"The flexible hours and relative pay for the job was appealing for me especially because I have health issues.”

"The atmosphere of the job is welcoming. It doesn’t feel like a dark cloud of gloom is hovering over me. There is constructive criticism, and necessary job related correction, but overall a positive work environment.”


“I thought it sounded interesting and it fit into my schedule of full time work. I loved that it was flexible and that I could work when I was available.”


Where It Happens

All clinical exams take place at the NBEO’s National Center for Clinical Testing in Optometry (NCCTO®), 7910 Microsoft Way, Suite 250, Charlotte NC, 28273.

NBEO Front Desk


What We’re Looking For





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