ABPS General Surgery exam-day guide
ABPS General Surgery · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring an unexpired driver's license or passport. The name must match your registration exactly. Confirm the provider's accepted ID forms and name-match rules before exam day.
Scheduling confirmation or admission letter
Have your appointment confirmation, confirmation number, and testing center address available offline. Confirm whether the center requires a printed copy or accepts a digital version.
Testing center logistics
Save the address and phone number, plan your route and parking, and identify a backup transportation option. Confirm the recommended arrival time with the provider.
Arrival plan
Plan to arrive 30–45 minutes early as a safe default. Check the provider's exact recommendation; late arrivals may be denied admission.
Comfortable, layered clothing
Testing rooms may be cold or warm. Avoid clothing with large logos or prohibited items. Dress in layers you can remove or add.
Leave valuables and electronics at home
Phones, smartwatches, notes, and unauthorized materials are generally prohibited in the testing room. Storage may be limited; confirm the center's personal-item policy.
Approved medical devices or medications
If you need medication, food, or a device during the exam, request accommodation well in advance. Bring only items the provider has approved in writing.
Glasses or contacts and reading aids
Bring any vision correction you normally use. Confirm whether the testing center provides scratch paper and pencils or requires you to use an on-screen tool.
One-page summary review sheet
Prepare a concise sheet of high-yield facts, formulas, and decision rules for the final 24 hours. Do not bring it into the testing room; use it only before check-in.
Break plan and snacks
Confirm the break policy and whether water or snacks are allowed during breaks. Eat a normal breakfast and avoid trying new foods or excessive caffeine.
Sleep and backup alarm
Set two alarms and aim for 7–9 hours of sleep. Avoid heavy study late the night before; prioritize rest and alertness.
Plan the day
Confirm appointment time, location, ID requirements, break policy, and any accommodation approvals with the provider. Take one timed practice set under exam-like conditions, then review only high-yield weaknesses. Avoid starting new topics. Set a consistent sleep schedule.
Pack your bag with ID, confirmation, glasses, layers, and any pre-approved items. Confirm transportation and a backup plan. Check the testing center's rules on personal items and prohibited devices.
Stop heavy study by early evening. Review your one-page summary of formulas, guidelines, and decision rules. Prepare clothes and bag, set two alarms, and aim for a full night's sleep. Do not cram new material.
Eat a normal breakfast and avoid excessive caffeine. Arrive at the testing center 30–45 minutes early, or per the provider's instruction. Bring only approved items. Complete check-in and follow staff directions.
Read the tutorial and instructions carefully. If scratch paper is provided, jot down key facts before starting. Pace yourself by noting question count and remaining time; flag difficult questions and return to them. Use scheduled breaks to stretch and hydrate. Review flagged items if time permits.
Note any testing-center issues or questions about scoring for follow-up with the provider. Confirm when and how results will be released. Do not discuss specific exam content with others.
Rules to check
Bring valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID. The name must match your registration exactly. Confirm accepted ID forms and name-change procedures with the provider.
Follow all testing center conduct rules. Phones, smartwatches, notes, and unauthorized materials are generally prohibited in the testing room. Store personal items as directed.
Breaks are typically scheduled and monitored. Confirm the provider's break policy, including whether unscheduled breaks are allowed, and raise your hand for staff assistance.
Scoring, passing standards, and score reporting are set by the board. Confirm the scoring method and timeline with the provider; do not rely on unofficial sources.
If you need a testing accommodation, request it well before exam day and bring only approved items. Confirm approval in writing with the provider.
Arrive early. If you are delayed, contact the testing center immediately; admission is not guaranteed for late arrivals. Confirm the late-arrival policy with the provider.
Follow the candidate agreement and confidentiality rules. Do not discuss, share, or reproduce exam content before, during, or after the test.
If you feel ill or have an emergency, notify testing staff right away. Confirm the rescheduling and refund policy with the provider.