ABR core exam

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The ABR core exam is set by the American Board of Radiology, and is the first of two exams necessary for certification in diagnostic and interventional radiology in the United States of America. It is taken at the end of PGY4 of radiology residency training.

The exam is computer-based and occurs in two sessions (7.5 hours and 6 hours) over two days. The number of questions is not fixed, but is >600.

The exam tests a wide range of radiology knowledge:

  • physics (a large part of the exam)
  • breast imaging
  • cardiac imaging
  • neuroradiology
  • nuclear medicine
  • musculoskeletal imaging
  • thoracic imaging
  • genitourinary imaging
  • gastrointestinal imaging
  • vascular imaging
  • interventional radiology
  • reproductive and endocrine imaging
  • pediatric imaging
  • radiography and fluoroscopy
  • ultrasound
  • CT
  • MRI
  • quality and safety

If a candidate meets the passing standard when all categories are scored together, then the exam is passed. If the candidate fails the physics category, then he or she will have "conditioned" the exam and must repeat the physics category.

The exam is offered in June and November. It can be taken in either Chicago, Illinois or Tucson, Arizona.

This exam replaces the old ABR "written boards" and "oral boards", which were discontinued in 2013.

Radiology training