ABS Computer-Based Testing

The American Board of Surgery (ABS) is an independent, nonprofit organization founded in 1937 to provide board certification and Maintenance of Certification to surgeons who have met a defined standard of education, training and knowledge. The ABS offers computer-based testing through Pearson VUE for its examinations in general surgery, vascular surgery, pediatric surgery, complex general surgical oncology, and surgical critical care.

Registration

Before scheduling an exam appointment with Pearson VUE, you must have already:

1. Registered for your examination through the ABS website
2. Have a copy of your Examination Admission Authorization letter, available from the ABS website once your exam registration has been approved

Scheduling

Examinees may schedule their exam appointment by telephone or online through the Pearson VUE website. To schedule online, you must first create a Pearson VUE web account. Please note that account creation may require up to 24 hours. You will be notified by email when your account is activated.

You will need the candidate ID, exam name and exam code from your Examination Admission Authorization letter to schedule your exam, or to set up an online account with Pearson VUE if you wish. Exam appointments may be made up to one business day in advance, but please be aware that many test centers will fill up prior to the exam window.

Once you schedule your exam, Pearson VUE will send a confirmation email with your exam date and time, as well as the address and phone number of the test center, and directions to the test center.

You will need to bring with you to the test center two valid forms of ID: One must have your photo, name and signature; the other must have at least a name and signature, or name and photo. The name on the IDs must match the name on your authorization letter.

Please note that the ABS does not receive your scheduling information; you should contact Pearson VUE with any questions regarding your exam time or location. Good luck on your exam!