ABIM Advanced HF
Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology Certification Examination
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ExploreAbout this exam
The Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology Certification Examination is an ABIM subspecialty certification exam for physicians who want to demonstrate the knowledge, clinical judgment, and skills required for independent practice in advanced heart failure and transplant cardiology. ABIM states that its certification exams assess the knowledge, clinical judgment and skills essential for high-quality care in internal medicine and its subspecialties, and that certification demonstrates readiness for independent practice. The exam is given in four sessions over approximately 10 hours, with up to 60 multiple-choice, single-best-answer questions per session. Most questions use clinical vignette stems, and some require interpretation of illustrative material such as ECGs, radiographs, and photomicrographs. Content is defined by ABIM's published blueprint. Preparation should begin with the blueprint, then the exam tutorial, laboratory reference ranges, exam policies, day-of logistics, and scoring information. The exam is offered only in even-numbered years; the 2026 date is Oct. 7, 2026, with registration from Dec. 1, 2025, through Jun. 15, 2026. This page is an independent study guide and is not affiliated with or endorsed by ABIM.
What you'll study
About ABIM Advanced HF preparation
What is the exam format?
It is a multiple-choice, single-best-answer exam delivered in four sessions over approximately 10 hours. Each session has up to 60 questions. Most items are clinical vignette stems; a small number test specific knowledge points. Some questions require interpreting ECGs, radiographs, or photomicrographs. There is an optional tutorial of up to 30 minutes and 100 total minutes of break time divided among three breaks.
When is the exam offered?
ABIM administers it in even-numbered years only. The 2026 exam date is Oct. 7, 2026. Candidates approved for disability accommodations have exam dates Oct. 26–30, 2026. Registration for 2026 runs Dec. 1, 2025, through Jun. 15, 2026; late registration runs Jun. 16–28, 2026 and requires a non-refundable fee.
How do I register and schedule?
Register through ABIM's Physician Portal during the open registration window. After completing registration steps, you are routed to Pearson VUE to schedule an appointment; appointments are first-come, first-served. For 2026, regular registration is Dec. 1, 2025–Jun. 15, 2026. Late registration is Jun. 16–28, 2026 with a non-refundable fee. Deadlines are 11:59 p.m. ET.
How is the exam scored?
Pass-fail is based on your performance on the entire exam. Unanswered questions are scored incorrect, so answer every question. The minimum passing score is an absolute standard independent of any candidate group and is set by the designated ABIM Specialty Board or Advisory Committee. The page does not publish a numeric passing score.
When are results released?
Final results are released within three months of the last exam date in that area. You receive an email when results are available and access your score report through the Physician Portal. Questions about results must be submitted in writing within six months of the release date.
Can I request a rescore?
Yes. You may request a rescore for a $250 fee by written request within six months of the results release date. Include your name, ABIM ID, the exam to be rescored, and a check payable to the American Board of Internal Medicine. Rescore results are mailed within eight weeks of receipt.
Does ABIM limit retakes?
The published exam page does not state a retake policy, waiting period, or attempt limit. Candidates should review ABIM's certification policies and exam fees and refund policies for current rules before assuming any retake timeline.
What are common failure modes?
A common mistake is leaving questions blank; unanswered items are scored incorrect. Another is preparing only from memory or older guidelines, because ABIM items reflect current clinical practice and some answers may change after publication. Practice clinical vignettes and interpreting ECGs, radiographs, and photomicrographs. Use the blueprint to avoid overstudying low-yield topics.
How should I order my study?
Start with the ABIM blueprint to map content categories, then review the exam tutorial and laboratory reference ranges. Read exam policies and day-of logistics so logistics do not consume test time. Practice single-best-answer vignettes and image interpretation. Finish with timed blocks that mimic four sessions of up to 60 questions and 100 total break minutes.