CAQ-OBGYN
Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Cheat sheet
Keep the key ideas within reach.
ExploreKey terms
Get comfortable with the vocabulary.
ExploreStudy plan
Give each week a clear focus.
ExploreCommon mistakes
Understand the traps and how to avoid them.
ExploreCase studies
Put your knowledge to work in context.
ExploreExam-day guide
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ExploreAbout this exam
The Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) is a specialty credential offered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA), the only certifying organization for PAs in the United States. NCCPA describes the CAQ as a way for PAs to "show your advanced expertise in your specialty," so the OBGYN CAQ is aimed at Certified PAs who already practice in obstetrics and gynecology and want documented recognition of that focused body of knowledge. NCCPA states that it provides certification programs reflecting standards for clinical knowledge, clinical reasoning, and other medical skills and professional behaviors, and that it is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). This page is an independent study aid; it is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by NCCPA. Content is organized around four domains of equal weight: Obstetrics, Gynecology, Gynecologic Oncology, and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. Preparation should combine guideline-based review of each domain with case-based practice on high-yield topics such as hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, abnormal uterine bleeding, cervical and ovarian cancer screening and triage, and infertility evaluation. Important caveat: at retrieval on 2026-11-06 the dedicated CAQ-OBGYN page on the NCCPA site returned a 404 error, so item count, time limit, passing standard, fee, and blueprint weights could not be verified from the source. Confirm all logistics directly with NCCPA before scheduling.
What you'll study
About CAQ-OBGYN preparation
Who offers the OBGYN CAQ, and is this site affiliated with them?
The credential is offered by NCCPA, which describes itself as the only certifying organization for PAs in the United States and states it is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies. This study page is independent and has no affiliation with, endorsement from, or sponsorship by NCCPA.
Who is the OBGYN CAQ intended for?
NCCPA frames the CAQ as a way to show advanced expertise in a specialty. It therefore targets PAs already working in obstetrics and gynecology who want formal recognition of that focused knowledge, rather than students or PAs without OBGYN practice exposure.
What content should I study?
This page organizes review into four equally weighted domains: Obstetrics, Gynecology, Gynecologic Oncology, and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. Prioritize guideline-driven management and case-based reasoning in each, since NCCPA states its programs reflect clinical knowledge and clinical reasoning standards.
How many questions are on the exam and how long is it?
Not verifiable. The dedicated CAQ-OBGYN page returned a 404 error when retrieved on 2026-11-06, so no item count or time limit could be sourced. Do not rely on figures from older materials; confirm current logistics with NCCPA directly.
What score do I need to pass, and what does it cost?
Unknown from the available source. The passing standard and fee were not stated on any page retrieved on 2026-11-06, and the OBGYN CAQ page was unavailable. Treat any number you see elsewhere as unverified until NCCPA publishes it.
How should I sequence my study time?
Because the four domains carry equal weight in this outline, avoid over-investing in obstetrics alone. Rotate domains weekly, then spend the final phase on mixed case sets that force you to choose between competing diagnoses and next steps, which mirrors how clinical reasoning is tested.
What are common failure modes?
Typical errors include memorizing facts without practicing management decisions, neglecting gynecologic oncology and reproductive endocrinology because they feel less familiar, and misreading the question's actual ask, such as the immediate next step versus the definitive treatment. Build decision trees rather than fact lists.
Where can I confirm exam dates and application steps?
Use NCCPA's own channels: the Earn Specialty Certificates section, Key Dates page, Specialty CAQ Resources, and Specialty CAQ FAQs. NCCPA also publishes contact details, including its Johns Creek, Georgia office, for direct questions. Always verify against the official site before applying.
Does the CAQ replace my PA-C certification?
No. NCCPA presents the CAQ as an additional specialty certificate layered on top of PA certification, not a substitute for it. NCCPA separately describes maintaining certification through continuing education and periodic exams, so plan for both obligations.