Used by osteopathic medical students and residents, this three-phase self-assessment examination series is designed to gauge a candidate’s knowledge base in advance of the COMLEX-USA examination series. Each COMSAE (Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Self-Assessment Examination) form is presented in a format and structure similar to the COMLEX-USA examinations.

COMSAE is not intended to predict specific performance on any of the COMLEX-USA examinations.

COMSAE Phase 1	Assessment of Foundational Biomedical Sciences and Osteopathic Principles and Practice
COMSAE Phase 2	Assessment of Fundamental Clinical Sciences for Osteopathic Medical Practice
COMSAE Phase 3	Assessment of Competencies for Osteopathic Medical Practice

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a limit to the number of times that a COMSAE form can be purchased?

There is no limit. After purchasing a form, it will remain available for 90 days.

Now that COMLEX-USA Level 1 is pass/fail, will the COMSAE examinations also move to pass/fail?

At this time there are no plans to make COMSAE pass/fail. No changes will be made to the current COMSAE score reporting for all Phases of the examination. COMSAE will continue to report a 3-digit numerical score and will provide a graphic representation of performance for the three content areas: Competency Domain, Clinical Presentation, and Discipline.

Is there a calculator feature on COMSAE exams?

Beginning February 2024, all Phase 1 and Phase 2 COMSAE forms will have a calculator function.

Is there a separate list of lab values/reference ranges provided on the COMSAE examinations?

No. If lab values are reported in a test question, then the normal reference ranges are also given either in a table or in parentheses. Please see our COMSAE Sample (startpractice.com) for examples.

Does the NBOME provide answers to questions on COMSAE exams?

Beginning February 2024, the Phase 1 and Phase 2 student purchased forms will include answer keys. The forms designated for COM purchase do not.

Who can see a score report from a student-purchased COMSAE form?

The score results are only provided to the student. As the purchaser, only that individual has the rights to the score report. The NBOME does not share these reports with non-purchasers.

Is there a COMSAE practice examination for COM faculty?

Yes. Phase 1 and Phase 2 options are available as described here.

Want another option to prepare for COMLEX-USA?

The WelCOM assessment series is offered on the CATALYST platform, and each phase is also aligned to COMLEX-USA examinations (currently for Level 1 and Level 2-CE).

After a candidate responds to a WelCOM question, an explanation is provided as to why the correct answer is correct and the other choices are incorrect. References for further study are also provided.

WelCOM provides osteopathic medical students and residents with an alternative means of reinforcing their medical knowledge by assessing their strengths and weaknesses in their knowledge of osteopathic medicine. For more information see the WelCOM page.

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The names NBOME and the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners are registered service marks of the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners, Inc. (NBOME). The NBOME seal, the assessment names COMAT®, COMLEX®, COMLEX-USA®, COMSAE®, COMVEX®, WelCOM® and CATALYST™, and all other designated marks and styles are trademarks or service marks of the NBOME. Unauthorized use of any NBOME mark to promote the goods or services of others is prohibited and subject to all rights and remedies under applicable federal and state law.

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