ABP Pediatric Gastroenterology exam-day guide
ABP Pediatric Gastroenterology · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the exact ID the testing provider requires. Confirm the accepted forms and name-match rules with the provider before test day; requirements vary by center.
Admission/authorization document
Bring any scheduling confirmation, eligibility letter, or authorization number the provider issues. Confirm with the provider whether a printed copy is required or a digital copy is acceptable.
Know your test center logistics
Confirm address, parking or transit, arrival time, and check-in window with the provider. Arrive early enough to complete security and identity checks without rushing.
Review the provider's permitted-items list
Most testing centers restrict personal belongings (phones, watches, notes, bags) to a locker. Confirm what is allowed at your seat with the provider rather than assuming.
Scheduling a break plan
Confirm the break policy (scheduled vs. on-demand, whether the clock stops) with the provider. Plan hydration and snacks around it if permitted.
Comfort items allowed by policy
If you need water, medication, or accommodation items, confirm approval and documentation requirements with the provider in advance.
Light, familiar snack and water
If breaks and outside food are permitted, bring something simple you tolerate well. Confirm food/drink rules with the provider.
Layered clothing
Test rooms can be cold or warm. Dress in layers you can adjust; confirm any dress/security screening rules with the provider.
Rest and sleep plan for the night before
Protect sleep in the final 24 hours rather than cramming. Fatigue reliably hurts performance on long exams.
Logistics for the day (transport, backup plan)
Have a backup route or contact in case of transit problems, and know the provider's late-arrival policy in advance.
Confirm scoring and result timeline
Know how the exam is scored and when/how results are released. Confirm these details with the provider; do not rely on secondhand reports.
Plan the day
Stop learning new material. Do focused review of your weakest high-yield pediatric GI topics (e.g., neonatal cholestasis, malabsorption, inflammatory bowel disease, liver function interpretation) using your own notes. Confirm all logistics and documents with the provider.
Take one timed practice set under realistic conditions, then review only the explanations for missed items. Do not start new resources.
Light review of summary sheets only. Lay out ID, confirmation documents, clothing, and snacks. Confirm travel plan and arrival time. Aim for a full night's sleep; avoid late caffeine and alcohol.
Eat a normal meal, hydrate moderately, arrive early per the provider's check-in window, and complete ID/security checks. Leave phones and unauthorized items secured as directed.
Read each stem fully and note key qualifiers (age, acuity, lab trends). Answer straightforward items first, flag uncertain ones, and return to them. Use breaks as allowed to reset; watch the clock but avoid panic-guessing.
Note which topics felt weak while memory is fresh, for future study. Confirm with the provider how and when results will be released.
Rules to check
Bring only the identification and documents the provider requires; confirm the exact list with the provider, as policies differ by center.
Personal electronics, notes, and unauthorized materials are typically prohibited in the testing room. Confirm the specific permitted-items and storage policy with the provider.
Follow all proctor instructions and security screening. Failure to comply can result in dismissal; confirm the provider's conduct policy in advance.
Confirm the break policy (scheduled or on-demand, and whether the clock pauses) with the provider before test day.
Confirm the late-arrival and rescheduling policies with the provider; do not assume a grace period.
Understand the scoring model and any penalty for guessing by confirming with the provider; do not rely on assumptions about how unanswered items are treated.
If you need testing accommodations, request and confirm approval and documentation with the provider well before the exam date.
Report any testing irregularity or equipment problem to the proctor immediately and follow the provider's documented process.