CST Exam Overview
The Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam is administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Passing the CST exam demonstrates that an individual meets the national standard for knowledge and skills required of a competent entry-level surgical technologist.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the CST exam, candidates must meet one of the following criteria:
- Graduate from a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited surgical technology program
- Completed a surgical technology training program in the military
- Retake the exam (candidates who have previously taken the exam and are applying to retake it)
Application Process
- Submit the CST exam application online
- Pay the exam fee
- Receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) email from the NBSTSA
- Schedule the exam with Prometric, the testing vendor
Exam Format and Content
The CST exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions, of which 150 are scored and 25 are pretest questions. The exam is administered via computer at Prometric test centers. Candidates have 4 hours to complete the exam.
The exam covers the following content areas:
| Content Area | Percentage of Exam |
|---|---|
| Peri-Operative Care | 91% |
| Additional Duties | 9% |
Exam Results and Certification
Exam results are provided immediately after completing the exam at the test center. The passing score is determined using a criterion-referenced method. Successful candidates will receive a certificate and CST credential within 4-6 weeks after the exam.
The CST credential is valid for 4 years. To maintain the credential, certified surgical technologists must submit 60 continuing education credits before the expiration date.
