What Happens If You Fail the NAVLE? Here’s How to Bounce Back Stronger Than Ever
New Retake Rules and Free Prep Resources to Help You Succeed
Failing the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) can feel like a massive roadblock, but it’s important to remember—you’re not alone, and your dreams of becoming a veterinarian are still within reach. With the right tools, strategies, and mindset, you can turn a setback into a setup for success.
Here’s everything you need to know about what happens after a failed NAVLE attempt, including the new retake policy and how the free 12-week Vet Candy NAVLE Prep Program can help you succeed on your next try.
The New NAVLE Retake Policy: What You Need to Know
Starting with the November–December 2024 NAVLE administration, the International Council for Veterinary Assessment (ICVA) is rolling out a revised retake policy. Here’s how it works:
You now have up to five attempts to pass the NAVLE, including incomplete ones (where you start but don’t finish the exam).
All previous attempts count toward this five-attempt limit.
If you reach the limit, you can appeal to the ICVA Board of Directors for permission to try again. This requires verification from a licensing board confirming they’ll accept your passing score.
This updated policy replaces the previous system, which allowed licensing boards to set their own rules—or have no limits at all. By standardizing the retake process, the ICVA ensures fairness and aligns with best practices seen in other professional exams.
Why the Change?
The new retake policy reflects a commitment to security, consistency, and accuracy. Limiting attempts reduces the risk of compromised test integrity while providing a clearer path for candidates to demonstrate their knowledge.
It’s all part of helping you succeed in a way that’s fair, transparent, and effective.
Bounce Back with the Vet Candy 12-Week NAVLE Prep Program
The NAVLE is tough, but you don’t have to tackle it alone. The Vet Candy NAVLE Prep Program, brought to you by Hometown Vet Partners, is here to make sure you’re ready to ace your next attempt—and it’s completely free.
What makes this program so powerful?
Content Aligned with NAVLE Topics: Start by mastering diagnoses and species on the NAVLE list, then test your knowledge with NAVLE-style questions.
Specialist-Led Resources: Watch videos, read textbooks, and listen to podcasts designed by experts in the field.
Interactive Learning: Join quiz nights and weekly meet-ups with specialists to make studying fun and engaging.
Learn Your Way, Anytime, Anywhere: Whether you prefer watching, reading, or listening, you can study on your own terms from any device.
With this program, you’ll have everything you need to rebuild your confidence and knowledge, setting you up for success on your next NAVLE attempt.
You’re Not Defined by One Test
Failing the NAVLE isn’t the end of your journey—it’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and come back stronger. Many successful veterinarians faced setbacks on their way to achieving their dreams. What matters most is your commitment to moving forward.
Take advantage of free resources like the Vet Candy 12-Week NAVLE Prep Program, stay informed about the new retake policies, and lean on your support network. You’ve got this, and the veterinary profession needs people like you—resilient, passionate, and determined.
Sign up for our 12 week NAVLE Prep, start anytime and join us to CRUSH the exam! myvetcandy.com/prep
