Failed my RVT exam twice — what am I missing in my prep? — Forums

priya.testOP

May 27, 2026

So I just got my second failed attempt back and honestly I'm pretty discouraged. I've been working as a vet tech assistant for almost two years now, so I figured the clinical stuff would be fine, but radiology and anesthesia monitoring keep wrecking me. My goal is a 75 but I keep landing in the low 60s.

My current routine is reading through the NAVTA study guide and doing random flashcards I found online, but I don't think that's cutting it. A coworker mentioned she used an RVT practice test site that simulates the actual exam format — timed sections, similar question style — and passed on her second try. Is that the kind of thing that actually moves the needle?

I'm targeting my third attempt in about 10 weeks. Would love to hear what study strategies worked for people who struggled early on. How many hours per week are realistic? Any specific exam tips for the pharmacology and surgical nursing sections especially?

Sarah M.

May 28, 2026

Honestly the NAVTA study guide alone is not enough, at least it wasn't for me. I supplemented with Mosby's Veterinary PDQ and a structured study guide that broke topics into weekly chunks. Pharmacology is brutal if you try to memorize everything — focus on drug categories and mechanism first, then names. Also, don't ignore dentistry. I thought it'd be minor and it showed up way more than I expected. What sections does your score report flag as weak areas?

Sofia R.

May 28, 2026

I was in almost the exact same spot two years ago. What finally clicked for me was ditching the passive reading and doing timed practice blocks instead — like 30 questions in 45 minutes. The RVT practice test format matters because the real exam will catch you off guard if you're not used to the phrasing. Anesthesia was my weak spot too. I ended up spending three full weekends just on monitoring parameters and it paid off. Passed with an 81.

Carlos B.

May 28, 2026

Ten weeks is plenty of time if you're consistent. I'd aim for 8-10 hours a week minimum, heavy on practice questions. Your score report will tell you exactly which domains to prioritize — use that, don't just study everything equally. You've got this.

Failed my RVT exam twice — what am I missing in my prep?

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