Dermatology In-Training Examination

The American Board of Dermatology (ABD) has restructured the In-Training and Certification exams—moving from the approach of emphasizing knowledge retention, to exams that better emphasize the application of knowledge using clinically relevant case scenarios. The ABD Certification Pathway is a staged evaluation with a BASIC exam designed for first-year residents, covering dermatology fundamentals; CORE exam modules testing more advanced knowledge of senior residents about dermatology’s major clinical areas; and an APPLIED exam given after residency, which tests the ability to apply knowledge in clinical situations. (See Appendix P)

The BASIC exam for first years is informational only, not pass/fail. It is offered on one day, lasting ½ day and is proctored by programs. First year residents will not be scheduled for clinical duties on the day of the exam.

The CORE exam is taken by second and/or third year residents and contain 4 modules: general/medical, pediatric, surgical, and dermatopathology. Basic Science content is incorporated into each of the clinical modules and residents can take 1-4 modules in one sitting. This will serve as a qualifying exam for the APPLIED exam. Although there is a remote proctoring option offered residents are strongly encouraged to take these exams at Pearson Vue testing centers to avoid testing irregularities. Residents are allowed to request one ½ day away for CORE Exam testing at a Pearson Vue testing center during  business hours. Residents must not schedule testing during continuity clinic times to avoiding closures of their own clinics. In the event that scheduling does not allow that, you must notify PD/APD/PC as soon as possible. These requests will need to be submitted 8 weeks in advance whenever possible using the Time Away Form (See Appendix M).

The APPLIED exam is taken in July following year 3 of residency at Pearson Vue testing centers.

First year residents are expected to score at or above the 32nd percentile on the BASIC exam.   For those first year residents scoring below the 32nd percentile, targeted educational activities will be assigned on an individual basis with the goal of improving scores, especially in areas of particular weakness.  A structured and rigorous academic program supported by the faculty is currently in place to prepare residents for this in-training exam and is a top priority of the residents’ training.