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American Board of Radiology Diagnostic Radiology Core Examination
600 questions
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About this exam
The American Board of Radiology Diagnostic Radiology Core Examination is a major board examination for diagnostic radiology residents in the United States. It assesses the foundational knowledge expected during residency and is an important step in the ABR certification pathway; it is not an admissions test for residency. Candidates generally take it after meeting the ABR’s applicable training and eligibility requirements. Because requirements and scheduling can change, residents should confirm their own eligibility and application details with the ABR and their program.
Core exam preparation spans both imaging science and clinical radiology. Relevant areas include physics and image formation, radiation biology and dose optimization, radiography, fluoroscopy, contrast media, and CT physics, protocols, and interpretation, alongside the broader knowledge areas in the ABR content specifications. Candidates need to connect principles with image-based clinical decisions, not just memorize facts. A practical plan combines systematic topic review, active recall, and timed question practice, with regular review of incorrect answers and weak areas.
How to prepare for the Diagnostic Radiology Core Examination
- Use the current ABR exam information and content specifications to build a study outline, then check your progress across all listed areas rather than concentrating only on familiar topics.
- Review physics and imaging fundamentals in focused blocks, including image formation, radiation biology and dose optimization, fluoroscopy and contrast media, and CT protocols; explain key principles in your own words.
- Complete timed, image-based questions regularly, then analyze every missed or uncertain answer and revisit the underlying concept before repeating that topic.
FAQ
Who is eligible to take the ABR Diagnostic Radiology Core Examination?
It is intended for diagnostic radiology residents in the ABR certification pathway who have met the Board’s current training and application requirements. Eligibility and timing depend on the applicable ABR rules and a candidate’s training status, so confirm details with the ABR and your residency program.
What is the format of the Diagnostic Radiology Core Examination?
The Core Examination is a computer-based assessment of foundational diagnostic radiology knowledge, including questions that require interpretation of images and application of concepts. Consult the ABR’s current exam information for the latest format, administration details, and scheduling.
What subjects should I study for the Diagnostic Radiology Core Examination?
Study the full range of areas in the ABR content specifications. Foundational topics include diagnostic radiology physics and image formation, radiation biology and dose optimization, radiography, fluoroscopy, contrast media, and CT physics, protocols, and interpretation, as well as the broader clinical knowledge areas.