USA

American Board of Radiology Diagnostic Radiology Qualifying Examination

600 questions

About this exam

The American Board of Radiology Diagnostic Radiology Qualifying Examination is a certification exam for physicians pursuing initial ABR certification in diagnostic radiology. It is generally taken by residents who have reached the required training stage; it is not an entrance exam for residency. The examination assesses whether candidates have the broad knowledge expected of a diagnostic radiologist, including image interpretation, anatomy, imaging modalities, patient safety, and the clinical use of imaging. Eligibility and requirements are set by the ABR and can depend on a candidate’s training pathway.

Preparation calls for more than memorizing imaging findings: candidates need to connect anatomy, modality selection, and clinical context across the specialty. Review areas include diagnostic radiology anatomy and image interpretation, chest and thoracic imaging, cardiovascular imaging, and neuroradiology, alongside other core systems and foundational topics. Use the current ABR exam materials and your residency curriculum to guide priorities, then revisit missed concepts and practice applying knowledge under timed conditions. Online multiple-choice practice can supplement a structured review plan, but should not replace current official guidance.

How to prepare for the Diagnostic Radiology Qualifying Examination

  1. Map your review to the current ABR exam outline and cover broad core areas, including anatomy and image interpretation, chest, cardiovascular imaging, neuroradiology, physics, and patient safety.
  2. Use timed question sets to build pacing and clinical reasoning; review every explanation, especially for incorrect answers and topics you guessed on.
  3. Check the ABR’s current candidate and examination materials with your program, since eligibility requirements, exam details, and guidance may change between cycles.

FAQ

Who is eligible to take the ABR Diagnostic Radiology Qualifying Examination?

It is intended for physicians pursuing initial ABR certification in diagnostic radiology, typically residents who have met the required training milestones. The ABR determines eligibility, so candidates should confirm their status and pathway requirements with the ABR and their residency program.

What is the format of the Diagnostic Radiology Qualifying Examination?

The exam assesses diagnostic radiology knowledge through examination questions, including image-based material. The ABR’s current candidate information is the best source for the format, administration details, and any changes for a particular cycle.

What subjects should I study for the Diagnostic Radiology Qualifying Examination?

Review the full scope of diagnostic radiology, including anatomy and image interpretation, chest and thoracic imaging, cardiovascular imaging, neuroradiology, other organ systems, imaging physics, and patient safety. Use the current ABR exam materials to organize your study plan.