USA

American Board of Internal Medicine Hematology Certification Examination

600 questions

About this exam

The American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Hematology Certification Examination is a subspecialty board exam for physicians pursuing certification in hematology. It assesses whether a candidate can apply hematology knowledge to the evaluation and management of patients across clinical settings. Candidates generally complete the required internal medicine training and hematology fellowship pathway; eligibility depends on ABIM requirements, which can change. Physicians planning for the 2027–2028 cycle should confirm their individual eligibility and application steps directly with ABIM.

The exam covers a broad range of hematology, including blood cell production and bone marrow failure, iron and nutritional anemias, hemolytic disorders, red cell membrane conditions, hemoglobinopathies, and thalassemias. Candidates should also review other areas in the current ABIM blueprint, such as hemostasis, transfusion medicine, and hematologic malignancies. Preparation requires more than memorizing disease facts: practice interpreting clinical findings, choosing diagnostic tests, and applying treatment principles. Use the current blueprint to prioritize review and identify gaps.

How to prepare for the ABIM Hematology Certification Examination

  1. Use the current ABIM exam blueprint to organize a study plan, then review core areas such as marrow failure, anemia, hemolysis, hemoglobinopathies, coagulation, transfusion medicine, and hematologic malignancies.
  2. Practice applying knowledge to clinical vignettes under timed conditions. After each session, review why the correct option fits and why alternatives do not, especially for diagnosis, testing, and treatment decisions.
  3. Check ABIM’s official certification and exam information for current eligibility requirements, application details, and exam format; adjust your plan if the published blueprint or policies change.

FAQ

Who is eligible to take the ABIM Hematology Certification Examination?

Eligibility is based on ABIM requirements, including required internal medicine training and subspecialty training in hematology. Requirements can vary with a candidate’s pathway and may change, so confirm your status and current criteria with ABIM.

What is the format of the ABIM Hematology Certification Examination?

The exam is a computer-based, multiple-choice assessment of clinical hematology knowledge and decision-making. Check ABIM’s current exam information for the applicable blueprint, timing, and other format details for your cycle.

What subjects should I study for the ABIM Hematology exam?

Start with the current ABIM blueprint. Key areas include hematopoiesis and marrow failure, iron and nutritional anemias, hemolytic anemias, hemoglobinopathies and thalassemias, as well as coagulation, transfusion medicine, and hematologic malignancies.