COMLEX changes in 2026 and 2027: shorter exams, a one-day Level 3
First checked October 12, 2026; rechecked October 21, 2026 · Sources: NBOME news releases, format pages, Level 3 page and FAQ.
COMLEX changes are under way across COMLEX-USA. Levels 1 and 2-CE dropped from 352 to 320 questions in spring 2026, still with eight hours. Level 3 becomes a one-day exam on January 13, 2027. From the class of 2029, new clinical skills assessments replace the current attestation for Level 3, and the NBOME has frozen exam fees through the 2027-28 cycles.
The COMLEX changes tracker
| Change | When | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Levels 1 and 2-CE: 352 to 320 questions | May 2026 (Level 1), June 2026 (Level 2-CE) | Fewer questions in the same eight hours |
| Level 3 becomes one day | January 13, 2027 | Similar mix of multiple-choice and clinical decision-making cases |
| Clinical skills for Level 3 eligibility | Class of 2029 onward | New assessment options replace the attestation, which runs through the class of 2028; C3DO expected to become the standard |
| Fee freeze | Through 2027-28 cycles | Level 1 and 2-CE stay $745, Level 3 $950 |
| Level 1 pass/fail | Since May 10, 2022 | No numeric score or percentile for Level 1 |
From NBOME announcements.
What isn’t changing
- Passing standards: 400 for Levels 1 and 2-CE, 350 for Level 3, according to the NBOME.
- The blueprint: the NBOME says Level 3’s one-day format has fewer questions but the same blueprint.
- Fees: frozen through the 2027-28 cycles.
What the changes mean for you
- Taking Level 1 or 2-CE now: expect 320 questions over the same eight hours, about 1.5 minutes per question by our arithmetic. Older prep materials may still say 352.
- Taking Level 3 after January 13, 2027: plan for one long day instead of two; check the NBOME’s Level 3 page for the new session structure.
- Class of 2029 and later: watch your college’s guidance on the clinical skills assessment needed for Level 3 eligibility.
Common questions about the COMLEX changes
Will the new clinical skills assessment cost extra?
The NBOME says it will continue delivering its part of the C3DO assessment through 2027 without fees to students or colleges.
Did the passing score change?
No. The NBOME lists the same passing standards: 400 for Levels 1 and 2-CE and 350 for Level 3.
When does Level 3 become one day?
On January 13, 2027, according to the NBOME.
Are COMLEX fees going up?
No. The NBOME has frozen fees through the 2027-28 cycles: $745 for Levels 1 and 2-CE and $950 for Level 3.