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Training and Initial Certification

2024 - 2025 Exam Dates
Written Exam: December 9-13, 2024
Applications: Opening June 2025
Oral Exam:  June 6-7, 2025
Board Eligible
The Board will recognize an individual as being "Board Eligible" when he/she/they has an approved application on file with the Board.

Examination Blueprint
The blueprint for the Written and Oral Exams are now available for candidates.

Written Exam Blueprint  
Oral Exam Blueprint

 

10-Year Pass Rate
 
Click Here to view the Pass Rate for the past 10 years.

Pathways to
Certification

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Operative
Requirements

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Exam Dates
and Fees

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Residency
Requirements

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Examination
Sequence

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Certification
Policies

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News

New Certification Operative Pathway
The American Board of Thoracic Surgery (ABTS) has approved a new Cardiac Operative Pathway for certification for residents who start their training on or after July 1, 2022.  To learn more about the Cardiac Pathway Index Case Requirements, click HERE .

Alternate Pathway to Certification

The 2024 application process for the Alternate Pathway to Certification is open until September 10, 2024.  The Alternate Pathway to Certification is for truly exceptional cardiothoracic surgeons who are International Medical Graduates.  To learn more about this pathway and the application process, CLICK HERE.

Part I (Written) Exam
The ABTS will be using the 8th edition of the American Joint Commission on Cancer TNM staging system for the Part I(Written) Exam

Pearson Testing Center
To learn more about the test taking experience at Pearson Testing Centers, please Click Here.