APCA Examination Testing: A Complete Guide

Convenient Online Testing with OnVUE

The Alliance for Physician Certification & Advancement™ (APCA™) now offers the convenience of online proctoring through OnVUE. This option allows candidates to take their exams from home or their office. For more information on how OnVUE works, visit the OnVUE online proctoring page.

Important Updates and Responsibilities

Effective Testing Procedures:

• Technical Requirements: Ensure your system meets all technical requirements for online proctoring. Failure to meet these requirements could result in the need to reschedule your exam at your own expense. Check your system compatibility before scheduling your test to avoid potential issues.
• Testing Environment: You are responsible for ensuring that your testing environment complies with APCA’s standards. This includes having a suitable workspace and ensuring no interruptions during the exam. If there are issues with your exam setup, you may be required to reschedule and pay additional fees.

Revocation of Examination:

• If your examination is revoked due to technical issues, you will need to reapply and pay for the exam again. For a more stable experience, consider taking your exam at a Pearson VUE test center if you have concerns about meeting the technical requirements for OnVUE.

How to Get Started

1. View the Introduction Video: Watch the short video available on the APCA online proctoring page to understand the ease of taking your exam from home or work.
2. Run System Checks: Before registering for your online proctored exam, perform the system check to ensure compatibility.

APCA Certifications & Examinations

APCA offers a range of certifications that recognize physicians’ commitment to high-quality patient care through ongoing education:

• Certification Board of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography (CBCCT)
• Certification Board of Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance (CBCMR)
• Certification Board of Nuclear Cardiology (CBNC)
• Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation® (RPVI®)
• Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation in China (RPVI-China)
• Registered in Musculoskeletal® (RMSK®) Sonography
• American Board of Vascular Medicine Vascular Medicine Examination (ABVM-VASC)®
• American Board of Vascular Medicine Endovascular Medicine Examination (ABVM-ENDO)®

Certification Pathways:

• RPVI Certification: Apply, be deemed eligible, and pass the Physicians’ Vascular Interpretation (PVI) examination.
• RMSK Certification: Apply, be deemed eligible, and pass the Musculoskeletal Sonography (MSK) examination.
• CBCCT Certification: Apply, be deemed eligible, and pass the CBCCT examination.
• CBCMR Certification: Apply, be deemed eligible, and pass the CBCMR examination.
• CBNC Certification: Apply, be deemed eligible, and pass the CBNC examination.
• ABVM Certifications: Apply, be deemed eligible, and pass the respective ABVM examinations.

Exam Fees and Scheduling

International Fees: A $50 USD fee applies to individuals taking APCA examinations at international testing centers (outside the US, Canada, and Mexico). Value Added Tax (VAT) may also be charged. This fee is non-refundable and applicable to all international scheduling.

Scheduling Your Exam:

• Creating an Account: If you have a Pearson VUE account from ARDMS, use the same login credentials for APCA exams.
• Appointments: Exams can be scheduled online or by calling 877-258-9220. Confirmations will be sent via email. If you do not receive a confirmation within 24 hours, contact Pearson VUE.

Test Day Requirements

Valid ID Requirements:

• Present a non-expired, government-issued photo ID with your signature. Ensure that the name on your ID matches exactly with the name on your exam application. Discrepancies can result in denial of entry and forfeiture of fees.

Preparing for Your Examination

Preparation Resources:

• APCA Certification & Examination Page: Visit the APCA Certification page to select your specialty and access preparation materials.
• Sample Testing: Utilize the demonstration exams to familiarize yourself with the Pearson VUE testing environment and question formats.

Conclusion

The APCA certification process is designed to support physicians in their professional development and commitment to exceptional patient care. By leveraging available resources, understanding the testing procedures, and preparing thoroughly, candidates can enhance their chances of success. Whether choosing OnVUE online proctoring or a Pearson VUE test center, follow the guidelines to ensure a smooth examination experience.