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American Board of Surgery (ABS) General Surgery Qualifying Examination
600 questions
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About this exam
The American Board of Surgery (ABS) General Surgery Qualifying Examination is the written examination in the ABS general surgery certification process. It assesses whether eligible surgeons can apply the knowledge and clinical judgment expected of a general surgeon; it is not an entrance exam for residency. Candidates typically take it after completing an eligible general surgery residency and meeting the ABS application requirements. Because eligibility details and examination policies can change, check the current ABS candidate information for the 2027–2028 cycle.
The ABS Qualifying Examination uses computer-based questions to assess clinical decision-making across the breadth of general surgery. Review areas include patient assessment and perioperative care, trauma and emergency resuscitation, surgical critical care and shock, and infections, sepsis, and antimicrobial therapy, alongside other general surgery topics in the current exam outline. Preparation is more than memorizing facts: candidates need to recognize priorities, interpret clinical information, and choose appropriate next steps. A structured review plan, timed question practice, and careful analysis of explanations can help identify knowledge gaps.
How to prepare for the ABS General Surgery Qualifying Examination
- Use the current ABS exam outline to organize your review across general surgery, including perioperative care, trauma, critical care, shock, and surgical infections.
- Practice applying knowledge to clinical scenarios under timed conditions, then review explanations to understand why the best answer fits and why alternatives do not.
- Build a realistic study schedule around your weaker areas and verify eligibility, application requirements, and current exam guidance with official ABS materials.
FAQ
Who is eligible to take the ABS General Surgery Qualifying Examination?
The examination is for candidates seeking ABS certification in general surgery. Eligibility generally depends on completing an eligible general surgery residency and satisfying the Board’s application requirements. Check the current ABS requirements for your pathway and cycle.
What is the format of the ABS General Surgery Qualifying Examination?
The Qualifying Examination is a computer-based written exam that uses questions to assess general surgery knowledge and clinical judgment. Consult the current ABS candidate information for the applicable format and administration details.
What subjects should I study for the ABS surgery boards?
Review the full current ABS exam outline. Key areas include patient assessment and perioperative care, trauma and resuscitation, surgical critical care and shock, and surgical infections and sepsis, as well as the broader scope of general surgery.