Comprehensive Guide to the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) Examinations

Introduction to ACVS Board Certification

The American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) is a premier veterinary specialty board recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). It establishes rigorous standards for advanced professionalism in veterinary surgery. Achieving board certification through ACVS demonstrates a high level of expertise and commitment to the field of veterinary surgery.

Certification Requirements

To earn ACVS board certification, candidates must meet the following criteria:

1. Completion of Residency Training: Successful completion of an approved residency program in veterinary surgery.
2. Scientific Manuscript: Submission and acceptance of a scientific manuscript in a peer-reviewed journal.
3. Credentials Application: Submission and acceptance of a comprehensive Credentials Application.
4. Examination: Passing all components of the ACVS Examination, which is divided into two distinct phases.

The ACVS Examination Structure

The ACVS Examination comprises two phases:

• Phase I: Surgical Knowledge
  • Timing: Administered during the residency training.
  • Purpose: Assesses fundamental knowledge in veterinary surgery.
  • Registration: Must be completed before submitting the Credentials Application.
• Phase II: Surgical Competency
  • Timing: Taken after the acceptance of credentials by ACVS.
  • Components: Includes both case-based and practical sections.
  • Testing Locations: Available at Pearson VUE Professional Test Centers.

Note: Both examination phases are coordinated by the Human Resources Research Organization (HumRRO) and are conducted at Pearson VUE Test Centers.

Examination Registration and Scheduling

Registration Process

1. Register with ACVS: Complete the registration process for the examination with ACVS.
2. Request Accommodations: If needed, submit a request for accommodations to ACVS.
3. Receive Authorization: Obtain an Examination Authorization email from ACVS.

Scheduling Your Examination

• Phase II Surgical Competency Exam
  • Dates:
    • Americas and Europe: February 3-4, 2025
    • Asia and Oceania: February 4-5, 2025
  • Format: Case-based and practical sections, administered on separate days with an optional 15-minute break.
  • Location: Pearson Professional Test Centers only.
• Phase I Surgical Knowledge Exam
  • Date:
    • Americas and Europe: April 7, 2025
    • Asia and Oceania: April 8, 2025
  • Format: Two parts over a seven-hour period with an optional one-hour break.
  • Location: Pearson VUE Test Centers.

Interactive Scheduling Tips:

• Create an Account: Set up a Pearson VUE web account for scheduling. Note that account creation may take up to 24 hours.
• Use Your IDs: Have your Candidate ID (HumRRO ID) and Authorization ID ready when scheduling.
• Early Scheduling: Test appointments should be scheduled as soon as possible to secure your preferred date and location.

What to Bring on Exam Day

• Documentation: Bring your Examination Authorization email and a government-issued photo ID with a signature. Ensure the information on your ID matches the details provided to ACVS.

Cancellation and Rescheduling

If you need to cancel or reschedule your examination:

1. Contact ACVS: Inform ACVS of your cancellation or rescheduling request.
2. Notify Pearson VUE: If an appointment has been scheduled, contact Pearson VUE to update or cancel your appointment.
3. Refund Policies: Refer to the information pamphlets for specific refund policies and procedures.