CT (ASCP) - Cytotechnologist (ASCP)
- Cost $250
- Renews every 3 years
COURSE FORMAT
About
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
International Fee: $210. There is a discount of $95 for applicants that have a medical laboratory education and reside in specific countries listed in the International Pricing Policy.
Course Format
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.
Applicants take the CT exam in person at a Pearson VUE test center. They must report to the testing center 30 minutes before their scheduled test time. Applicants must supply a government-issued photo ID with a signature. The first and last name on this ID must match the name the applicant used to register for the exam.
Pearson VUE provides a locker to store all personal belongings, which can't be taken into the testing room. The Test Administrator (TA) may collect a digital photograph, digital signature, and/or palm vein image and complete other check-in procedures. Applicants receive a checklist of test-taking rules to read. The exam is computer-based and monitored by the TA. There's no interaction allowed between test takers during the exam.
Certification
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
Renewal
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: $100
Reinstatement fee: $135
Fee reduced by $20 if renewing multiple ASCP certifications expiring on the same day or expire within 3 months of each other
Continuing Education
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
Other Resources
Related Certifications
The ASCP also offers the following certifications:
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Frequently asked questions
What are some certifications I can pursue after obtaining ASCP Cytotechnologist (CT) certification?
You can pursue Specialist in Cytotechnology (SCT-ASCP), among others.
Can I earn a ASCP Cytotechnologist (CT) online?
No you can't earn a ASCP Cytotechnologist (CT) online.
What organization offers the Cytotechnologists (CT)?
The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) offers the Cytotechnologists (CT).
What other certifications should I consider after getting the ASCP Cytotechnologists (CT)?
After obtaining the Cytotechnologists (CT), you might also pursue the Specialist in Cytotechnology (SCT).
What other certifications does the ASCP offer besides the Cytotechnologist (CT)?
The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) also offers the following:
If I am outside the U.S., am I eligible to apply for ASCP Cytotechnologist (CT) certification?
For questions related to international Cytotechnologist (CT) certification applicants, access the ASCP Board of Certification handbook for international candidates.
Are paper ASCP Cytotechnologist (CT) certification exams available?
No, paper ASCP Cytotechnologist (CT) certification exams aren't available. The ASCP uses Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT) because it measures knowledge and skills more accurately and quickly than standard fixed-form tests. In CAT, a more difficult question follows a correct answer, and a less difficult question follows an incorrect answer to identify the test taker’s ability level in each area.
When do I find out if I passed the ASCP Cytotechnologist (CT) certification exam?
Examinees will receive unofficial pass/fail results at the testing center on completion of the ASCP Cytotechnologist (CT) certification exam. An official results report is available online within four business days.
What if I fail the ASCP Cytotechnologist (CT) certification exam?
Examinees will receive unofficial pass/fail results at the testing center on completion of the ASCP Cytotechnologist (CT) certification exam. Once you receive an email notification with your results, you may submit a new application and fee to retake the exam. You must wait a minimum of 90 days to retake the exam.