Here are some common questions that we are asked about the Pediatric MOC Exam:
How much does the exam cost?
Your exam fee is included in your annual Maintenance of Certification re-enrollment fee through the American Board of Pediatrics when you use ABP developed activities. If you use MOC activities that were developed by other organizations, there may be an additional fee. The current re-enrollment fee is $1304. If you hold more than one certification or need to re-take the exam, you will incur additional fees.
How often do I need to take the exam?
As of 2007, you are required to take one MOC exam every ten years.
How many questions are there?
The exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions.
How long is the exam?
The exam is approximately four hours long. It consists of two timed sections of two hours each.
What does the exam cover?
The general pediatrics exam covers 35 different topics deemed most important by the ABP. It’s important to note that many skills are not feasible for testing in a computerized exam. The exam focuses on what are viewed as the most critical topics given the exam’s time constraints.
Is the MOC exam different from my initial certification exam?
Yes. The MOX exam is more clinically focused, rather than focusing on topics found in standard reference materials. The exam was developed with input from approximately 1000 pediatricians on the content and design of the test.
Can I use reference materials during the exam?
No. Up until 2003, the MOC exam was a take-home, open-book examination. After that, the American Board of Medical Specialties changed the format to a standardized exam given in a secure, computer-based environment to maintain the integrity of the exam.
How should I prepare for the exam?
You may find it helpful to use study guides like Springer’s Pediatric Board Study Guide, exam preparation courses like the Pediatric Board Review or the American Board of Pediatrics’ Self-Assessment. Taking Pediatric MOC practice questions is likely the best way to prepare for the exam.