CT (ASCP) - Cytotechnologist (ASCP)

The Cytotechnologist (CT) certification is a professional credential for individuals specializing in the study and diagnostic interpretation of cells and cellular abnormalities, especially in the context of cancer and infectious diseases. This certification is administered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification (BOC). It demonstrates a cytotechnologist's expertise in preparing and evaluating cell samples, recognizing cellular abnormalities and providing critical diagnostic information to pathologists and healthcare providers. The CT certification is designed for professionals who have completed an accredited program in cytotechnology and are looking to validate their specialized skills and knowledge.

Eligibility

• Earned a bachelor’s degree from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university

• Completed a CAAHEP-accredited Cytotechnology program within the last 5 years

Completion Time: 2.5 hours

Cost: $250 nonrefundable

Exam Format

The CT exam consists of 100 questions, with 2.5 hours allowed to finish the exam. All questions are multiple-choice, with only one correct answer. The content areas covered include:

• Gynecological Cytology (40-45%)

• NonGynecological Cytology: (25-35%)

  • Respiratory System (8-12%)

  • Genitourinary System (8-12%)

  • Body Cavity Fluids (8-12%)

• Fine Needle Aspiration and Other (10-15%)

• Laboratory Operations (15-20%)

The ASCP BOC administers the CT certification exam using the Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT) format. The CAT format measures knowledge and skills more accurately than standard fixed-form tests. Test takers can't skip items because the CAT algorithm measures the individual’s ability level for each question answered. Each exam adjusts to the test takers’ knowledge level, and every exam is unique. 

Candidates receive preliminary exam results at the Pearson VUE test center, then receive official results via email. Those who are unsuccessful can re-apply to take the exam again after they receive their score report and pay the full application fee again.

Application Process

• Login or create an ASCP account online

• Select the category and route of application

• Verify contact information

• Complete online application

• Upload documentation as PDF files

• Submit application fee

• Request school to send official transcripts to the ASCP BOC

• Monitor application status

• Resolve any deficiencies on the application

• Schedule exam

• Prepare for exam day

• Sit for exam

• Receive official exam results

Must be renewed every 3 years and requires applicants to participate in the Credential Maintenance Program during the three-year cycle to track continuing education (CE) credits.

Renewal Fees

• Renewal fee: $95

• Reinstatement fee: $125

• Fee reduced by $15 if renewing multiple ASCP certifications expiring on the same day or expire within 3 months of each other

Beginning July 1, 2024:

• CMP fees for all credentials will increase by $5.

• CMP reinstatement fees for all credentials will increase by $10.

• CMP fees for additional credentials will increase by $5.

• CMP fees are non-refundable.

CTs must earn 36 CE credits prior to each renewal. They must earn:

• 8 credits in cytology

• 1 credit in laboratory or patient safety

• 1 credit in medical ethics

• 26 credits in area(s) of lab specialty, management, education or other related laboratory areas of interest

Exam Content
ASCP Procedures for Examination & Credentialing
Reading List for exam preparation

The ASCP also offers the following certifications:

• Technologist in Blood Banking (BB)

• Technologist in Chemistry (C)

• Technologist in Cytogenetics (CG)

• Histotechnologist (HTL)

• Technologist in Hematology (H)

• Technologist in Microbiology (M)

• Technologist in Molecular Biology (MB)

• Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS)