PLEASE KEEP THIS BOOKLET UNTIL YOU SUCCESSFULLY PASS … · Founded in 1928 by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), the Board of Certification is widely accepted as

U.S. (only)Procedures for

Examination & Certification

A S C P B O A R D O F C E R T I F I C A T I O N

2017PLEASE K E EP TH I S BOOKLE T UN T I L YOU SUCCESSFULLY

PASS THE CERT IF ICAT ION E XAM INAT ION .

Cytotechnologist (CT)CMDiplomate in Laboratory Management (DLM)CMDonor Phlebotomy Technician (DPT)CMHistotechnician (HT)CMHistotechnologist (HTL)CMMedical Laboratory Scientist (MLS)CMMedical Laboratory Technician (MLT)CMPathologists’ Assistant (PA)CMPhlebotomy Technician (PBT)CMSpecialist in Blood Banking (SBB)CM

Specialist in Chemistry (SC)CMSpecialist in Cytotechnology (SCT)CMSpecialist in Hematology (SH)CMSpecialist in Microbiology (SM)CMTechnologist in Blood Banking (BB)CMTechnologist in Chemistry (C)CMTechnologist in Cytogenetics (CG)CMTechnologist in Hematology (H)CMTechnologist in Microbiology (M)CMTechnologist in Molecular Biology (MB)CM

#0688ISO/IEC 17024

Personnel Certification Body

IMPORTANT NEW INFORMATION ENCLOSED

®

The ASCP Board of Certification is an

administratively independent certification agency

that prepares relevant standards and develops

procedures that will assure the competence of

non-physician medical laboratory personnel.

The ASCP Board of Certification certifies those

individuals who meet the academic and clinical

prerequisites and who achieve acceptable

performance levels on examinations.

The Board of Certification does not discriminate among applicants as to age, gender, race, religion, national origin, disability, marital status or sexual orientation.

1

ASCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

NJ

UL

y 2

01

7

About the Board of Certification . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Accreditation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Certification and Certification Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Certification Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3Applicants with a Disability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Certification Categories and . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3Application Fees

Technician Certification Donor Phlebotomy Technician, DPT(ASCP) . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Histotechnician, HT(ASCP). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5Medical Laboratory Assistant, MLA(ASCP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5Medical Laboratory Technician, MLT(ASCP) . . . . . . . . . . 5-6Phlebotomy Technician, PBT(ASCP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Technologist Certification Medical Laboratory Scientist, MLS(ASCP). . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Technologist in Blood Banking, BB(ASCP). . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8Technologist in Chemistry, C(ASCP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9Technologist in Cytogenetics, CG(ASCP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Cytotechnologist, CT(ASCP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Technologist in Hematology, H(ASCP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Histotechnologist, HTL(ASCP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11Technologist in Microbiology, M(ASCP) . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-12Technologist in Molecular Biology, MB(ASCP). . . . . . . . . . 12

Specialist Certification Pathologists’ Assistant, PA(ASCP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Specialist in Blood Banking, SBB(ASCP) . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14Specialist in Chemistry, SC(ASCP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Specialist in Hematology, SH(ASCP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-16Specialist in Microbiology, SM(ASCP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Specialist in Cytotechnology, SCT(ASCP) . . . . . . . . . . 16-17Specialist in Cytometry, SCYM(ASCP). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Diplomate Certification Diplomate in Laboratory Management, DLM(ASCP). . . 18-19

Official Documents Required Identify the Examination You’re Applying for and Determine your Eligibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Documentation Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Verification of Academic Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-21NAACLS Accredited Programs Outside of the United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Verification of Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Full and Part-Time Work Experience Defined . . . . . . . . . . 21Foreign Medical Technology Clinical Training Programs.21-22Verification of Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22ASCP Certified Applicants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

The Application Process Steps One to Three. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Payments for Online Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Applicants with a Disability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Change of Email Address, Mailing Address and/or Name . 24

Application Processing Review of Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25Application Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25Determination of Eligibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25Ineligibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25Study Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Scheduling Your Exam Scheduling Your Appointment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Rescheduling Appointments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Cancellation Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Reapplying for Examination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Examination Administration Computer Adaptive Testing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27Acceptable Forms of Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27Candidate Test Center Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27-28Inappropriate Conduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Examination Irregularities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Taking the Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Examination Results Examination Score . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Score Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Release of Score to Program Officials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Watch for Your Certificate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Request for Verification of CertificationSubmitted to Third Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Verification of Examination Result . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Re-examination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Certification Certification Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Certification Expiration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Revocation of Certification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Credential Maintenance Program (CMP) . . . . . . . . . . . 30-31CMP Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Appendix A – Pearson Professional CentersList of Test Centers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Appendix B – Acceptable Evaluation AgenciesForeign Transcript Evaluation Agencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Table of Contents

About the ASCP Board of CertificationFounded in 1928 by the American Society for ClinicalPathology (ASCP), the Board of Certification is widelyaccepted as the most influential leader in the field ofcertification of medical laboratory professionals. To date over500,000 individuals have been certified. The ASCP Board ofCertification understands the importance of impartiality inconducting certification and qualification activities. It managesconflict of interest and ensures objectivity by representativemembership on its Board of Governors from other associationsand societies. The Board of Governors of the ASCP Board ofCertification has 24 members:

• Five pathologists (nominated by the ASCP); including onemember of the American Society of Hematology

• Five laboratory professionals (nominated by the ASCP);including one member of the American Association for ClinicalChemistry

• Four representatives from the American Society for ClinicalLaboratory Science (ASCLS)

• Two representatives from the Association of GeneticTechnologists (AGT)

• One representative from each of the following six additionalparticipating specialty societies:

• AABB; American Association of Pathologists’ Assistants;American Society for Microbiology; American Society ofCytopathology; Clinical Laboratory ManagementAssociation; National Society for Histotechnology

• One public member• Past Board of Governors Chair

AccreditationThe ASCP Board of Certification is accredited by the AmericanNational Standards Institute (ANSI) for certification programswhere certificants complete the Credential MaintenanceProgram (CMP) and hold the following credentials:

Cytotechnologist, CT(ASCP)CM

Diplomate in Laboratory Management, DLM(ASCP)CM

Donor Phlebotomy Technician, DPT(ASCP)CM

Histotechnician, HT(ASCP)CM

Histotechnologist, HTL(ASCP)CM

Medical Laboratory Scientist, MLS(ASCP)CM

Medical Laboratory Technician, MLT(ASCP)CM

Pathologists’ Assistant, PA(ASCP)CM

Phlebotomy Technician, PBT(ASCP)CM

Specialist in Blood Banking, SBB(ASCP)CM

Specialist in Chemistry, SC(ASCP)CM

Specialist in Cytotechnology, SCT(ASCP)CM

Specialist in Hematology, SH(ASCP)CM

Specialist in Microbiology, SM(ASCP)CM

Technologist in Blood Banking, BB(ASCP)CM

Technologist in Chemistry, C(ASCP)CM

Technologist in Cytogenetics, CG(ASCP)CM

Technologist in Hematology, H(ASCP)CM

Technologist in Microbiology, M(ASCP)CM

Technologist in Molecular Biology, MB(ASCP)CM

ANSI awards accreditation to personnel certification agenciesthat meet the International ISO Standard 17024.

Certification and Maintenance ofCertification Certification is the process by which a non-governmentalagency or association grants recognition of competence to anindividual who has met certain predetermined qualifications, asspecified by the agency or association.

The ASCP Board of Certification provides a mechanism forthese individuals to be recognized as having the necessarycompetence to perform the medical laboratory roles they seek.This mechanism is called certification.

ASCP BOC certification is time-limited for three years. To remainvalid, certification must be maintained by completing theCredential Maintenance Program (CMP) as described on pages30 – 31.

ASCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

NJ

UL

y 2

01

7

2

ASCP Board of Certification

Certification Process Step 1 Meet the eligibility requirements for the appropriate

examination cate gory as shown on pages 4 – 18 beforesubmitting your application.

Step 2 Complete the online application (see page 22) andsubmit the following:

• Appropriate application fee (credit card or check) Application fees are non-refundable

• Necessary documentation required to verify youreligibility (see pages 19 – 21).

Step 3 Receive notification to take the examination on computer at a Pearson Professional Center within a three-month period, upon determination of yourexamination eligibility.

Step 4 Schedule an appointment to take the examination withinthe three-month period indicated in your admissionnotification.

Step 5 Take the examination at the Pearson Professional Center of your choice. (Appendix A, page 32)

Immediately after you complete the examination, you willsee your preliminary pass/fail result on the computerscreen.

Step 6 Receive notification email to login and view your finalexamination score.

Step 7 Receive your wall certificate in approximately 4-6weeks verifying your certification upon passing theexamination, valid for three years, and a link to theCredential Maintenance Program (CMP) bookletcontaining information on maintaining your certification.

Congratulations on your decision to apply for certification by theASCP Board of Certification, the certification agencyrepresenting the majority of the laboratory community. We wishyou success on your examination.

Applicants with a Disability Notify the ASCP Board of Certification office in writing at thetime of application if you wish to request testing modifications.

An applicant who wishes to request modifications in theexamination environment because of a disability must notify theASCP Board of Certification office in writing at the time ofapplication and provide a letter of diagnosis from anappropriate professional specifying the needed modification.The ASCP Board of Certification will consider modification of thetesting conditions on a case-by-case basis.

The ASCP Board of Certification will work directly with theapplicant and proctors at the test centers to makemodifications in the testing environment which make it possiblefor an individual with a disability to take an examination underconditions which will accurately reflect the individual’s aptitude

3

ASCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

NJ

UL

y 2

01

7

or achievement level. Such modifications may include providingauxiliary aids and services to an applicant with a disability.

NOTE: Once a candidate has received their Admission Notification, requestsfor testing modifications will not be accepted.

Certification Categories andApplication FeesApplication fees are non-refundable. Be sure youchoose the correct category of examination and youmeet the eligibility requirements as stated and are able toprovide the appropriate documentation when submittingyour application form and application fee. If youdetermine that you have applied for an incorrectcertification examination, our office will be unable tochange the category of examination.

The Board of Certification does not establish eligibility ofany candidate from information that is supplied via e-mail,correspondence, fax, telephone calls or online chats alone.Our office must base all decisions on a review andverification of information supplied through formalapplication for examination.

Category of Examination Application Fee

Phlebotomy Technician, PBT(ASCP) $135

Donor Phlebotomy Technician, DPT(ASCP) $135

Histotechnician, HT(ASCP) $215

Medical Laboratory Assistant, MLA(ASCP) $135

Medical Laboratory Technician, MLT(ASCP) $215

Medical Laboratory Scientist, MLS(ASCP) $240

Cytotechnologist, CT(ASCP) $240

Histotechnologist, HTL(ASCP) $240

Technologist in Blood Banking, BB(ASCP) $240

Technologist in Chemistry, C(ASCP) $240

Technologist in Cytogenetics, CG(ASCP) $240

Technologist in Hematology, H(ASCP) $240

Technologist in Microbiology, M(ASCP) $240

Technologist in Molecular Biology, MB(ASCP) $240

Specialist in Blood Banking, SBB(ASCP) $290

Specialist in Chemistry, SC(ASCP) $290

Specialist in Cytotechnology, SCT(ASCP) $290

Specialist in Cytometry, SCYM(ASCP) $290

Specialist in Hematology, SH(ASCP) $290

Specialist in Microbiology, SM(ASCP) $290

Pathologists’ Assistant, PA(ASCP) $530

Diplomate in Laboratory Management, $405 DLM(ASCP)

The requirements and fees stated in this booklet aresubject to change without notice.

DPT(ASCP) Donor PhlebotomyTechnician To be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes:

A Route of Eligibility MUST be indicated on your application.If no Route of Eligibility is designated, your application willnot be processed.

Route 1: PBT (ASCP) certification, AND 25 successful donorcollections in the U.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory*within the last year;

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Effective January 1, 2018the DPT Eligibility Route 1 will be revised as follows:PBT(ASCP) certification, and 50 successful donorcollections in the U.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory*within the last year.

OR

Route 2: High school graduation (or equivalent), ANDcompletion of an acceptable donor phlebotomy structuredprogram within The Joint Commission or CAP accreditedinstitution, AND 50 successful donor collections in the U.S.,Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the last two years;OR

Route 3: High school graduation (or equivalent), ANDcompletion of one year of full time acceptable experience as adonor phlebotomy technician in an accredited facility in theU.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the last twoyears; OR

Route 4: High school graduation (or equivalent), ANDsuccessful completion of RN, LPN or other accredited alliedhealth professional/occupational education, AND donorphlebotomy training with 50 successful donor collections in theU.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory*. Applicants mustsubmit a notarized copy of their current state/provincial licensefor RN or LPN or notarized copy of a certificate of completionfrom the accredited allied health program they completed.

* CMS CLIA certificate of registration, compliance, accreditation; OR JCI accreditation; OR accreditation under ISO 15189

HT(ASCP) HistotechnicianTo be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes:

A Route of Eligibility MUST be indicated on your application.

If no Route of Eligibility is designated, your application willnot be processed.

Route 1: Successful completion of a NAACLS accreditedHistotechnician program within the last 5 years prior to thedate of application for examination.

The education received from a NAACLS accredited HTprogram is acceptable for a period of five (5) years from thedate of completion of that program. After five years, theapplicant’s eligibility will be based on clinical laboratoryexperience as stated in the current examination eligibilityrequirements; OR

Route 2: At least 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) ofacademic credit from a regionally accredited college/university,with a combination of 12 semester hours (18 quarter hours) ofbiology and chemistry (must include credit hours in both), or anassociate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, with a combination of 12 semester hours (18quarter hours) of biology and chemistry (must include credithours in both), AND one year of full time acceptableexperience in a histopathology (clinical, veterinary, industry orresearch) laboratory in the U.S., Canada or an accreditedlaboratory* within the last five years.


Laboratory Experience To fulfill the experience requirement for the Histotechnicianexamination, you must have laboratory experience, within thelast ten years, in ALL of the following areas: • Fixation • Tissue identification• Parameters (e.g., pH, time, temperature)• Reagents• Selection, preparation, and use of fixatives for various applications• Troubleshooting/problem solving of fixation artifacts

• Processing • Selection, preparation and use of decalcification reagents• Selection of appropriate processing methods for: • Routine Histology • Enzyme histochemistry • Immunofluorescence • Immunohistochemistry • Cytology• Operation and maintenance of tissue processor

• Embedding/Microtomy • Embedding

ASCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

NJ

UL

y 2

01

7

4

Examination Eligibility Requirements T E C H N I C I A N C E R T I F I C A T I O N

quarter hours) of academic credit from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, including 6 semester hours (9 quarter hours)of chemistry and 6 semester hours (9 quarter hours) of biology,AND one year of full time acceptable clinical laboratory**experience as a laboratory assistant within the last five years;OR

Route 5: PBT(ASCP) certification, AND one year of full timeacceptable clinical laboratory** experience as a laboratoryassistant within the last five years; OR

Route 6: High school graduation (or equivalent), ANDsuccessful completion of an acceptable two part formalstructured medical laboratory assistant program in the U.S.,Canada or an accredited laboratory** within the last five yearswhich consists of classroom training and clinical laboratorytraining, AND six months of full time acceptable clinicallaboratory** experience as a laboratory assistant within the lastfive years.

* Official or notarized documentation of your military code (NEC, MOS, or AFSCcode or 68K), certificate verifying completion of training or letter from ProgramDirector documenting program completion date or notarized copy of yourDD214 form or ER.B must be mailed to the BOC upon completion of theonline application.

** CMS CLIA certificate of registration, compliance, accreditation; OR JCI accreditation; OR accreditation under ISO 15189

MLT(ASCP) Medical LaboratoryTechnician To be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes:


Route 1: Associate degree or at least 60 semester hours (90quarter hours) of academic credit from a college/universityaccredited by a recognized regional or national accreditationagency, AND successful completion of a NAACLS or ABHESaccredited MLT program within the last 5 years.

The education received from a NAACLS or ABHES accreditedMLT program is acceptable for a period of five (5) years fromthe date of completion of that program. After five years, theapplicant’s eligibility will be based on clinical laboratoryexperience as stated in the current examination eligibilityrequirements; OR

Route 2: Associate degree or at least 60 semester hours (90quarter hours) of academic credit from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, including 6 semester hours (9 quarter hours)of chemistry and 6 semester hours (9 quarter hours) of biology,AND CLA(ASCP)* certification; OR

Route 3: Associate degree or at least 60 semester hours (90quarter hours) of academic credit from a regionally accredited

5

ASCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

NJ

UL

y 2

01

7

• Tissue identification and orientation • Operation and maintenance of an embedding center• Microtomy • Paraffin • Frozen • Operation and maintenance of a microtome/water bath and cryostat

• Staining • Selection of appropriate control material• Reagent preparation• Operation and maintenance of staining equipment• Mounting and cover slipping procedures• Identification of tissue structures and their staining characteristics• Routine staining (i.e., H&E)• Special staining • Carbohydrates and amyloid • Connective tissue • Microorganisms • Pigments and minerals

• Laboratory Operations• Operation, preventive maintenance, and corrective action for equipment• Troubleshooting• Quality control• Application of laboratory safety protocols

MLA(ASCP) Medical LaboratoryAssistant To be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes:


Route 1: High school graduation (or equivalent), ANDsuccessful completion of a NAACLS approved ClinicalAssistant (CA) program within the last five years.

The education received from a NAACLS approved ClinicalAssistant (CA) program is acceptable for a period of five (5)years from the date of completion of that program. After fiveyears, the applicant’s eligibility will be based on clinicallaboratory experience as stated in the current examinationeligibility requirements; OR

Route 2: High school graduation (or equivalent), ANDsuccessful completion of a 50 week U.S. military medicallaboratory training course* within the last ten years; OR

Route 3: High school graduation (or equivalent), AND twoyears of full time acceptable clinical laboratory** experience asa laboratory assistant within the last five years; OR

Route 4: Associate degree or at least 60 semester hours (90

college/university, including 6 semesterhours (9 quarter hours) of chemistryand 6 semester hours (9 quarter hours)of biology, AND successful completionof a 50 week U.S. military medicallaboratory training course within the lastten years**; OR

Route 4: Associate degree or at least60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) ofacadem ic credit from a regionallyaccredit ed college/university, including6 semester hours (9 quarter hours) ofchemistry and 6 semester hours (9quarter hours) of biology, AND threeyears of full time acceptable clinicallaboratory experience in Blood Banking,Chemistry, Hematology, Microbiology,Immunology, and Urinalysis/Body Fluidsin the U.S., Canada or an accreditedlaboratory*** within the last six years.

* CLA(ASCP) certification was discontinued in1982. Only applicants previously certifiedCLA(ASCP) may apply under Route 2.

** Official or notarized documentation of yourmilitary code (NEC, MOS, or AFSC code or68K), certificate verifying completion of trainingor letter from Program Director documentingprogram completion date or notarized copy ofyour DD214 form or ER.B must be mailed tothe BOC upon completion of the onlineapplication. For detailed information visit page21.

*** CMS CLIA certificate of registration,compliance, accreditation; OR JCI accreditation; OR accreditation under ISO15189

PBT(ASCP) PhlebotomyTechnician To be eligible for this examinationcategory, an applicant must satisfy therequirements of at least one of thefollowing routes:

A Route of Eligibility MUST beindicated on your application. If noRoute of Eligibility is designated, yourapplication will not be processed.

Route 1: High school graduation (orequivalent), AND completion of aNAACLS approved phlebotomyprogram within the last five years.

The education received from a NAACLSapproved PBT program is acceptablefor a period of five (5) years from thedate of completion of that program.

After five years, the applicant’s eligibilitywill be based on clinical laboratoryexperience as stated in the currentexamination eligibility requirements; OR

Route 2: High school graduation (orequivalent), AND completion of anacceptable two-part formal structuredphlebotomy program in the U.S.,Canada or an accredited laboratorywithin the last five years. This two-partprogram, to be arranged by theprogram director, must consist of: 40clock hours of classroom training,including anatomy and physiology ofthe circulatory system, specimencollection, specimen processing andhandling, and laboratory operations(e.g., safety, quality control, etc.), AND100 clock hours of clinical training andorientation in an accredited laboratory*with a minimum performance of 100successful unaided blood collectionsincluding venipunctures and skinpunctures; OR

Route 3: High school graduation (orequivalent), AND completion of oneyear of full time acceptable workexperience as a phlebotomy technicianin an accredited laboratory* within thelast five years. This experience mustinclude venipunctures and skinpunctures. (Full time experience isconsidered thirty-five hours per week);OR

Route 4: High school graduation (orequivalent), AND successful completionof RN, LPN or other acceptableaccredited allied healthprofessional/occupational educationwhich includes phlebotomy training andorientation in an accredited laboratory*with a minimum performance of 100A

SCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

NJ

UL

y 2

01

7

6

successful unaided blood collectionsincluding venipunctures and skinpunctures. Applicants must submit anotarized copy of their currentstate/provincial license for RN or LPNor notarized copy of a certificate ofcompletion from the accredited alliedhealth program they completed; OR

Route 5: MT/MLS(ASCP) certification orMLT(ASCP) certification; OR

Route 6: DPT(ASCP) certification ANDa minimum performance of 100successful unaided non-donor bloodcollections including venipunctures andskin punctures in an accreditedlaboratory* within the last 5 years; OR

Route 7: High school graduation (orequivalent), AND completion of aphlebotomy program approved by theCalifornia Department of Public Health**within the last five years.

* CMS CLIA certificate of registration,compliance, accreditation; OR JCI accreditation; OR accreditation under ISO 15189

** If you are a California resident and havecompleted a California Dept. of Public Healthapproved phlebotomy program in the State ofCalifornia, a training documentation form isrequired. The training documentation form mustbe completed by your program official andattached to a letter of authenticity, printed onoriginal letterhead, state that the trainingdocumentation form was completed by yourprogram official and include the date andsignature of the program official verifying theaccuracy of the information on the trainingdocumention form. If you are applying forCalifornia Licensure, a Third Party VerificationRequest link will be made available on the onlineexaminee score report providing instructions forrequesting verification to be submitted to theCalifornia state licensing board. You may alsoplace a third party verification request by goingto this link: www.ascp.org/verification. Do notplace a third party verification request until

successful completion of the examination and

receipt of your score report. There is a $16service fee (payable by credit card) associatedwith requesting third party verification.

The PBT(ASCP) Phlebotomy Technician

category requires applicants to satisfy one

of seven different routes.

7

ASCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

NJ

UL

y 2

01

7

MLS(ASCP) Medical LaboratoryScientist To be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes:

A Route of Eligibility MUST be indicated on yourapplication. If no Route of Eligibility is designated, yourapplication will not be processed.

Route 1: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university including courses in biological science,chemistry and mathematics, AND successful completion of aNAACLS accredited Medical Laboratory Scientist programwithin the last 5 years.

The education received from a NAACLS accredited MLSprogram is acceptable for a period of five (5) years from thedate of completion of that program. After five years, theapplicant’s eligibility will be based on clinical laboratoryexperience as stated in the current examination eligibilityrequirements; OR

Route 2: MLT(ASCP) certification, AND a baccalaureatedegree from a regionally accredited college/university,including 16 semester hours (24 quarter hours) of biologicalscience (with one semester in microbiology), 16 semesterhours (24 quarter hours) of chemistry (with one semester inorganic or biochemistry), one semester (one quarter) ofmathematics, AND two years of full time acceptable clinicallaboratory experience in Blood Banking, Chemistry,Hematology, Microbiology, Immunology and Urinalysis/BodyFluids in the U.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory* withinthe last four years; OR

Route 3: CLA(ASCP)** certification, AND a baccalaureatedegree from a regionally accredited college/university,including 16 semester hours (24 quarter hours) of biologicalscience (with one semester in microbiology), 16 semesterhours (24 quarter hours) of chemistry (with one semester inorganic or biochemistry), one semester (one quarter) ofmathematics, AND four years of full time acceptable clinicallaboratory experience in Blood Banking, Chemistry,Hematology, Microbiology, Immunology and Urinalysis/BodyFluids in the U.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory* withinthe last eight years; OR

Route 4: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, including 16 semester hours (24 quarterhours) of biological science (with one semester inmicrobiology), 16 semester hours (24 quarter hours) of

chemistry (with one semester in organic or biochemistry), onesemester (one quarter) of mathematics, AND five years of fulltime acceptable clinical laboratory experience in BloodBanking, Chemistry, Hematology, Microbiology, Immunologyand Urinalysis/Body Fluids in the U.S., Canada or anaccredited laboratory* within the last ten years.


** CLA(ASCP) certification was discontinued in 1982. Only applicants previouslycertified as CLA(ASCP) may apply under Route 3.

BB(ASCP) Technologist in BloodBanking To be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes:


Route 1: MT/MLS(ASCP) certification, AND a baccalaureatedegree from a regionally accredited college/university; OR

Route 2: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, with a major in biological science orchemistry, or a baccalaureate degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university with a combination of 30semester hours (45 quarter hours) of biology, chemistry and/ormedical sciences, AND one year of full time acceptable clinicallaboratory experience in blood banking in the U.S., Canada oran accredited laboratory* within the last five years; OR

Route 3: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, with a major in biological science orchemistry, or a baccalaureate degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university with a combination of 30semester hours (45 quarter hours) of biology, chemistry and/ormedical sciences, AND successful completion of a structuredprogram in blood banking under the auspices of a NAACLSaccredited Medical Laboratory Scientist Program** within thelast five years. The structured program in blood banking mustbe equivalent to the curriculum for blood banking in theMedical Laboratory Scientist Program; OR

Route 4: Master’s degree or Doctorate in chemistry, biology,immunology, immunohematology, microbiology, allied health,clinical laboratory sciences or an appropriately related field,from a regionally accredited college/university, AND six monthsof full time acceptable clinical laboratory experience in bloodbanking in the U.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory*

Examination Eligibility RequirementsT E C H N O L O G I S T C E R T I F I C A T I O N

ASCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

NJ

UL

y 2

01

7

8

Donor Collection, Processing andTesting (Proficiency may bedemonstrated through performance,observation or simulation)

• Donor selection, preparation andcollection

• Processing and donor testing

• Component preparation for storageand administration

C(ASCP) Technologistin Chemistry To be eligible for this examinationcategory, an applicant must satisfy therequirements of at least one of thefollowing routes:

A Route of Eligibility MUST beindicated on your application. If noRoute of Eligibility is designated, yourapplication will not be processed.

Route 1: MT/MLS(ASCP) certification,AND a baccalaureate degree from aregionally accredited college/university;OR

Route 2: Baccalaureate degree from aregionally accredited college/university,with a major in biological science orchemistry, or baccalaureate degreefrom a regionally accreditedcollege/university with a combination of30 semester hours (45 quarter hours) ofbiology, chemistry and/or medicalsciences, AND one year of full timeacceptable clinical laboratoryexperience in chemistry in the U.S.,Canada or an accredited laboratory*within the last five years; OR

Route 3: Baccalaureate degree from aregionally accredited college/university,with a major in biological science orchemistry, or baccalaureate degreefrom a regionally accreditedcollege/university with a combination of30 semester hours (45 quarter hours) ofbiology, chemistry and/or medicalsciences, AND successful completionof a structured program in chemistryunder the auspices of a NAACLSaccredited Medical Laboratory Scientist

Program** within the last five years. Thestructured program in chemistry mustbe equivalent to the curriculum forchemistry in the Medical LaboratoryScientist Program; OR

Route 4: Master’s degree in chemistryor an appropriately related field, from aregionally accredited college/university,AND six months of full time acceptableclinical laboratory experience inchemistry in the U.S., Canada or anaccredited laboratory* within the lastfive years; OR

Route 5: Baccalaureate degree or postbaccalaureate degree in medicallaboratory science from a regionallyaccredited college/university, or abaccalaureate degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university with 30semester hours (45 quarter hours) inthe biological, chemical and/or medicalsciences, AND successful completionof a program accredited by NAACLS asa Medical Laboratory ScientistProgram** within the last five years.

* CMS CLIA certificate of registration,compliance, accreditation; OR JCI accreditation; OR accreditation under ISO15189

** A training documentation form is required(www.ascp.org/certification). The trainingdocumentation form must be completed by theprogram director and attached to a Letter ofAuthenticity, printed on original letterhead, statethat the training documentation form wascompleted by the program director and includethe date and signature of the program directorverifying the accuracy of the information on thetraining documentation form.

Clinical LaboratoryExperience To fulfill the experience requirement forthe Technologist in Chemistryexamination, you must have clinicallaboratory experi ence within the last fiveyears in 8 of the 15 procedures listed:

• Blood gases

• Carbohydrates

• Electrolytes

• Electrophoresis

• Enzymes

• Heme compounds

• Immunochemistry

within the last five years; OR

Route 5: Baccalaureate degree or postbaccalaureate degree in medicallaboratory science from a regionallyaccredited college/university, or abaccalaureate degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university with 30semester hours (45 quarter hours) inthe biological, chemical and/or medicalsciences, AND successful completionof a program accredited by NAACLS asa Medical Laboratory ScientistProgram** within the last five years.

* CMS CLIA certificate of registration,compliance, accreditation; OR JCI accreditation; OR accreditation under ISO15189

** A training documentation form is required. Thetraining documentation form must be completedby the program director and attached to aLetter of Authenticity, printed on originalletterhead, state that the training documentationform was completed by the program directorand include the date and signature of theprogram director verifying the accuracy of theinformation on the training documentation form.

Clinical LaboratoryExperience To fulfill the experience requirement forthe Technologist in Blood Bankingexamination, you must have clinicallaboratory experience within the last fiveyears in all of the following procedures:

Serologic and/or Molecular Testing

• ABO and Rh typing

• Antibody detection and identification

• Crossmatching

• Direct antiglobulin tests

• Tests for other blood group antigens

Routine Problem Solving

• Transfusion reactions

• Immune hemolytic anemias

• Indications for transfusion

• Hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN)

• Rh immune globulin studies

Quality Control/Quality Assurance

• Reagents, equipment

Laboratory Operations

9

ASCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

NJ

UL

y 2

01

7

• Lipids/lipoproteins

• Non-protein nitrogen compounds

• Point-of-care

• Proteins

• Quality control program management

• Therapeutic drug monitoring

• Toxicology

• Vitamins/hormones

CG(ASCP) CytogeneticsTo be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes:


Route 1: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university including courses in biological science,chemistry and mathematics, AND successful completion of aNAACLS accredited cytogenetics education program withinthe last 5 years.

The education received from a NAACLS accredited CGprogram is acceptable for a period of five (5) years from thedate of completion of that program. After five years, theapplicant’s eligibility will be based on clinical laboratoryexperience as stated in the current examination eligibilityrequirements; OR

Route 2: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university with a major in biological science orchemistry, or baccalaureate degree including 30 semesterhours (45 quarter hours) of college course work in thebiological, chemical and/or medical sciences from a regionallyaccredited college/university, AND one year of full timeacceptable work experience within the last three years in acytogenetics laboratory* in the U.S., Canada or an accreditedlaboratory;** OR

Route 3: Graduate level degree (Master’s or Doctorate) inGenetics or Molecular Biology from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND nine months of full time acceptablework experience within the last three years in an accreditedclinical cytogenetics laboratory* in the U.S., Canada or anaccredited laboratory**.

* A clinical cytogenetics laboratory is defined as one capable of providingindividuals with knowledge and practical experience in clinical cytogeneticssuch as primary cell culture and harvest, slide preparation and staining,chromosome analysis, microscopic and image analysis, and moleculartechniques (e.g., fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and microarray).


ASCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

NJ

UL

y 2

01

7

10

accredited college/university with 30 semester hours (45quarter hours) in the biological, chemical and/or medicalsciences, AND successful completion of a program accreditedby NAACLS as a Medical Laboratory Scientist Program**within the last five years.


** A training documentation form is required (www.ascp.org/certification). Thisform must be completed by the program director and attached to a Letter ofAuthenticity, printed on original letterhead, state that the trainingdocumentation form was completed by the program director and include thedate and signature of the program director verifying the accuracy of theinformation on the form.

Clinical Laboratory Experience To fulfill the experience requirement for the Technologist inHematology examination, you must have clinical laboratoryexperience within the time frame required in all of the followingprocedures:

• Blood smear, evaluation and differential

• Complete blood count

• Routine coagulation tests (e.g., PT, APTT, D-dimer)

• Quality Control: performance and evaluation

Experience is also required within the last ten years in 2 of the3 procedures listed:

• Instrument maintenance/Troubleshooting

• Miscellaneous tests (e.g., ESR, sickle screen, manual cell count, reticulocyte)

• Other coagulation tests (e.g., fibrinogen, factor assays)

HTL(ASCP) Histotechnologist To be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes:


Route 1: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university with a combination of 30 semester hours (45quarter hours) of biology and chemistry (must include credithours in both), AND successful completion of a NAACLSaccredited Histotechnician or Histotechnology program withinthe last 5 years.

The education received from a NAACLS accredited HT/HTLprogram is acceptable for a period of five (5) years from thedate of completion of that program. After five years, theapplicant’s eligibility will be based on clinical laboratoryexperience as stated in the current examination eligibilityrequirements; OR

Route 2: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university with a combination of 30 semester hours (45

CT(ASCP) Cytotechnologist To be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the requirements of the following route:

Route 1: Baccalaureate degree or higher from a regionallyaccredited college/university, AND successful completion of a CAAHEP accredited Cytotechnology program within the last5 years.

The education received from a CAAHEP accredited CTprogram is acceptable for a period of five (5) years from thedate of completion of that program.

H(ASCP) Technologist in Hematology To be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes:



Route 2: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university with a major in biological science orchemistry, or baccalaureate degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university with a combination of 30semester hours (45 quarter hours) of biology, chemistry and/ormedical sciences, AND one year of full time acceptable clinicallaboratory experience in hematology in the U.S., Canada or anaccredited laboratory* within the last five years; OR

Route 3: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university with a major in biological science orchemistry, or baccalaureate degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university with a combination of 30semester hours (45 quarter hours) of biology, chemistry and/ormedical sciences, AND successful completion of a structuredprogram in hematology under the auspices of a NAACLSaccredited Medical Laboratory Scientist Program** within thelast five years. The structured program in hematology must beequivalent to the curriculum for hematology in the MedicalLaboratory Scientist Program; OR

Route 4: Master’s degree in biology, chemistry or anappropriately related field, from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND six months of full time acceptableclinical laboratory experience in hematology in the U.S.,Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the last five years;OR

Route 5: Baccalaureate degree or post baccalaureate degreein medical laboratory science from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, or baccalaureate degree from a regionally

11

ASCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

NJ

UL

y 2

01

7

quarter hours) of biology and chemistry (must include credithours in both), AND one year of full time acceptableexperience in a histopathology (clinical*, veterinary, industry orresearch) laboratory in the U.S., Canada or an accreditedlaboratory* within the last five years.


Clinical Laboratory Experience To fulfill the experience requirement for the Histotechnologistexamination, you must have laboratory experience, within thetime frame required in ALL of the following areas:

• Fixation • Tissue identification• Parameters (e.g., pH, time, temperature)• Reagents• Selection, preparation, and use of fixatives for various applications• Troubleshooting/problem solving of fixation artifacts

• Processing • Selection, preparation and use of decalcification reagents• Selection of appropriate processing methods for: • Routine Histology • Enzyme histochemistry • Immunofluorescence • Immunohistochemistry • Cytology• Operation and maintenance of tissue processor

• Embedding/Microtomy • Embedding • Tissue identification and orientation • Operation and maintenance of an embedding center• Microtomy • Paraffin • Frozen • Operation and maintenance of a microtome/water bath and cryostat

• Staining • Selection of appropriate control material• Reagent preparation• Operation and maintenance of staining equipment• Mounting and cover slipping procedures• Identification of tissue structures and their staining characteristics• Routine staining (i.e., H&E)• Special staining • Carbohydrates and amyloid • Connective tissue • Microorganisms • Pigments and minerals• Immunohistochemistry

• Laboratory Operations• Operation, preventive maintenance, and corrective action for equipment

• Troubleshooting• Quality control• Application of laboratory safety protocols

M(ASCP) Technologist inMicrobiology To be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes:



Route 2: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, with a major in biological science orchemistry, or baccalaureate degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university with a combination of 30semester hours (45 quarter hours) of biology, chemistry and/ormedical sciences, AND one year of full time acceptable clinicallaboratory experience in microbiology in the U.S., Canada oran accredited laboratory* within the last five years; OR

Route 3: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, with a major in biological science orchemistry, or baccalaureate degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university with a combination of 30semester hours (45 quarter hours) of biology, chemistry and/ormedical sciences, AND successful completion of a structuredprogram in microbiology under the auspices of a NAACLSaccredited Medical Laboratory Scientist Program** within thelast five years. The structured program in microbiology mustbe equivalent to the curriculum for microbiology in the MedicalLaboratory Scientist Program; OR

Route 4: Master’s degree in microbiology, or an appropriatelyrelated field, from a regionally accredited college/university,AND six months of full time acceptable clinical laboratoryexperience in microbiology in the U.S., Canada or anaccredited laboratory* within the last five years; OR

Route 5: Baccalaureate degree or post baccalaureate degreein medical laboratory science from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, or baccalaureate degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university with 30 semester hours (45quarter hours) in the biological, chemical and/or medicalsciences, AND successful completion of a program accreditedby NAACLS as a Medical Laboratory Scientist Program**within the last five years.


** A training documentation form is required (www.ascp.org). This form must becompleted by the program director and attached to a Letter of Authenticity,printed on original letterhead, state that the training documentation form wascompleted by the program director and include the date and signature of theprogram director verifying the accuracy of the information on the form.

ASCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

NJ

UL

y 2

01

7

12

Clinical Laboratory Experience To fulfill the experience requirement for the Technologist inMicrobiology examination, you must have experience, withinthe last ten years, in 3 of 6 of the following areas:

• Bacteriology• Molecular Microbiology• Mycobacteriology

MB(ASCP) Technologist in MolecularBiology To be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes:


Route 1: ASCP certified as a technologist (MT/MLS, CG, CT,HTL, BB, C, H, I or M) or specialist (SBB, SC, SCT, SH, SI,SM or SV), AND a baccalaureate degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university; OR

Route 2: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university including courses in biological science,chemistry and mathematics, AND successful completion of aNAACLS accredited diagnostic molecular science program,within the last 5 years.

The education received from a NAACLS accredited program

is acceptable for a period of five (5) years from the date ofcompletion of that program. After five years, the applicant’seligibility will be based on clinical laboratory experience asstated in the current examination eligibility requirements; OR

Route 3: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, with a major in biological science orchemistry, or baccalaureate degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university with a combination of 30semester hours (45 quarter hours) of biology, chemistry and/ormedical sciences, AND one year of full time acceptableexperience (clinical, veterinary, industry or research) in amolecular biology laboratory* in the U.S., Canada or anaccredited laboratory** within the last five years; OR

Route 4: Graduate level degree (Master’s or Doctorate) inmolecular biology, chemistry, biology, immunology,microbiology, allied health, clinical laboratory sciences, or anappropriately related field from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND six months of full time acceptableexperience (clinical, veterinary, industry or research) in amolecular biology laboratory* in the U.S., Canada or anaccredited laboratory** within the last five years.

* A molecular biology laboratory is defined as one capable of providingindividuals with knowledge and practical experience in all aspects of molecularmethods including, but not limited to, nucleic acid isolation, amplification,detection, sequencing, hybridization techniques, and data analysis.


Clinical Laboratory Experience To fulfill the experience requirement for the Technologist inMolecular Biology examination, you must have laboratoryexperience, within the timeframe required, in one of thefollowing areas:

• Genetics/Genomics (e.g., genotyping, gene disorders,pharmacogenomics)

• Oncology (e.g., hematologic lymphoid neoplasms/neoplasia,solid tumor gene markers)

• Histocompatibility (DNA-based)

• Infectious Disease (molecular microbiology/virology)

• Molecular Identity Testing (e.g., bone marrow engraftment,paternity, forensic)

• Mycology • Parasitology • Virology

13

ASCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

NJ

UL

y 2

01

7

Specialist Certification

PA(ASCP) Pathologists’ Assistant To be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the following route:

Route 1: Minimum of a baccalaureate degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university, AND successful completion of aNAACLS accredited Pathologists’ Assistant program within thelast five years.

The education received from a NAACLS accredited PAprogram is acceptable for a period of five (5) years from thedate of completion of that program.

SBB(ASCP) Specialist in BloodBanking To be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes:


Route 1: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university including biological science and chemistrycourses, AND successful completion of a CAAHEP accreditedSpecialist in Blood Bank Technology program. The educationreceived from a CAAHEP accredited Specialist in Blood BankTechnology program is acceptable for a period of five (5) yearsfrom the date of completion of that program; OR

Route 2: MT/MLS(ASCP) certification or BB(ASCP)certification, AND a baccalaureate degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university, AND three years of full timeacceptable experience in the clinical laboratory in bloodbanking in the U.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory*within the last six years. These three years of experience mustbe acquired post baccalaureate degree; OR

Route 3: Master’s or Doctorate degree in chemistry, biology,immunology, immunohematology, microbiology, allied health,clinical laboratory sciences, or an appropriately related field,from a regionally accredited college/university, AND three yearsof full time acceptable experience in the clinical laboratory inblood banking in the U.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory*within the last six years. These three years of experience mustbe acquired post baccalaureate degree; OR

Route 4: Doctorate degree in chemistry, biology, immunology,immunohematology, microbiology, allied health, clinicallaboratory sciences, or an appropriately related field, from a

regionally accredited college/university, AND two years of post-doctoral fellowship** in clinical blood banking in the U.S. orCanada within the last five years; OR

Route 5: MT/MLS(ASCP) certification or BB(ASCP)certification, AND a baccalaureate degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university, AND three years of full-timeacceptable experience as an academic educator in clinicalblood banking at a regionally accredited college/university inthe U.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the lastsix years. These three years of experience must be acquiredpost baccalaureate degree; OR

Route 6: Master’s or Doctorate degree in chemistry, biology,immunology, immunohematology, microbiology, allied health,clinical laboratory sciences, or an appropriately related field,from a regionally accredited college/university AND three yearsof full time acceptable experience as an academic educator inclinical blood banking in a regionally accreditedcollege/university in the U.S., Canada or an accreditedlaboratory* within the last six years. These three years ofexperience must be acquired post baccalaureate degree.


** A copy of the certificate of completion of the post-doctoral fellowship isrequired.

Clinical Laboratory Experience To fulfill the experience requirement for the Specialist in BloodBanking examination, you must have clinical laboratoryexperience within the time frame required in all of the followingprocedures:

Serologic Testing

• ABO and Rh typing

• Antibody detection and identification

• Crossmatching

• Direct antiglobulin tests

• Tests for other blood group antigens

Routine Problem Solving

• Transfusion reactions

• Immune hemolytic anemias

• Hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN)

• Rh immune globulin evaluation

Quality Control/Quality Assurance

• Reagents, equipment

Laboratory Operations

ASCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

NJ

UL

y 2

01

7

14

Donor Collection, Processing and Testing (Proficiency maybe demonstrated through performance, observation orsimulation)

• Donor selection, preparation and collection

• Processing or confirmatory testing

• Component preparation for storage and administration

SC(ASCP) Specialist in Chemistry To be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes:


Route 1: MT/MLS(ASCP) certification or C(ASCP) certification,AND a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND three years of full time acceptableexperience in the clinical laboratory in chemistry in the U.S.,Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the last six years.These three years of experience must be acquired postbaccalaureate degree; OR

Route 2: Master’s degree in chemistry, biology, immunology,microbiology, allied health, clinical laboratory sciences, or anappropriately related field, from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND three years of full time acceptableexperience in the clinical laboratory in chemistry in the U.S.,Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the last six years.These three years of experience must be acquired postbaccalaureate degree; OR

Route 3: Doctorate in chemistry, biology, immunology,microbiology, allied health, clinical laboratory sciences, or anappropriately related field, from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND two years of post-doctoral fellowship**in clinical chemistry in the U.S. or Canada or two years of fulltime acceptable experience in the clinical laboratory inchemistry in the U.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory*within the last five years. These two years of experience mustbe acquired post baccalaureate degree; OR

Route 4: MT/MLS(ASCP) certification or C(ASCP) certification,AND a doctorate in chemistry, biology, immunology,microbiology, allied health, clinical laboratory sciences, or anappropriately related field, from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND one year of full-time acceptablelaboratory experience in chemistry (clinical or research) in theU.S. or Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the last fiveyears; OR

Route 5: MT/MLS(ASCP) certification or C(ASCP) certification,AND a baccalaureate or master’s degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university, AND three years of full-time

acceptable experience as an academic educator in clinicalchemistry at a regionally accredited college/university in theU.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the last sixyears. These three years of experience must be acquired postbaccalaureate degree; OR

Route 6: MT/MLS(ASCP) certification or C(ASCP) certification,AND a doctorate in chemistry, biology, immunology,microbiology, allied health, clinical laboratory sciences, or anappropriately related field, from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND one year of full-time acceptableexperience as an academic educator in clinical chemistry at aregionally accredited college/university in the U.S. or Canadaor an accredited laboratory* within the last five years.



Clinical Laboratory ExperienceTo fulfill the experience requirement for the Specialist inChemistry examination, you must have clinical laboratoryexperience within the time frame required in eight of the fifteenprocedures listed:

• Blood gases

• Carbohydrates

• Chromatography

• Electrolytes

• Electrophoresis

• Enzymes

• Heme compounds

• Hormones/vitamins

• Immunochemistry

• Lipids/lipoproteins

• Non-protein nitrogen compounds

• Proteins

• Therapeutic drug monitoring

• Toxicology

• Point-of-care

Experience is also required in two of the six procedures listed:

• Test development/validation

• Procurement of laboratory equipment

• Quality management

• Regulatory compliance

• Supervisory experience

• Teaching

15

ASCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

NJ

UL

y 2

01

7

appropriately related field, from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND one year of full-time acceptableexperience as an academic educator in clinical hematology ata regionally accredited college/university in the U.S. or Canadaor an accredited laboratory* within the last five years.



Clinical Laboratory ExperienceTo fulfill the experience requirement for the Specialist inHematology examination, you must have clinical laboratoryexperience within the time frame required in all of the followingprocedures:

• Blood smear, evaluation and differential

• Complete blood count

• Instrument maintenance/Troubleshooting

• Miscellaneous tests (e.g., ESR, sickle screen, manual cellcount, reticulocyte)

• Quality control: performance and evaluation

• Routine coagulation tests (e.g., PT, APTT, and D-dimer)

• Other coagulation tests (e.g., fibrinogen, factor assays)

Experience in performing, supervising or teaching five of thetwelve procedures listed is also required:

SH(ASCP) Specialist in Hematology To be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes:


Route 1: MT/MLS(ASCP) certification or H(ASCP) certification,AND a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND three years of full time acceptableexperience in the clinical laboratory in hematology in the U.S.,Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the last six years.These three years of experience must be acquired postbaccalaureate degree; OR

Route 2: Master’s degree in chemistry, biology, immunology,microbiology, allied health, clinical laboratory sciences, or anappropriately related field, from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND three years of full time acceptableexperience in the clinical laboratory in hematology in the U.S.,Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the last six years.These three years of experience must be acquired postbaccalaureate degree; OR

Route 3: Doctorate in chemistry, biology, immunology,microbiology, allied health, clinical laboratory sciences, or anappropriately related field, from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND two years of post-doctoral fellowship**in clinical hematology in the U.S. or Canada or two years of fulltime acceptable experience in the clinical laboratory inhematology in the U.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory*within the last five years. These two years of experience mustbe acquired post baccalaureate; OR

Route 4: MT/MLS(ASCP) certification or H(ASCP) certificationAND a doctorate in chemistry, biology, immunology,microbiology, allied health, clinical laboratory sciences, or anappropriately related field, from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND one year of full-time acceptablelaboratory experience in hematology (clinical or research) in theU.S. or Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the last fiveyears; OR

Route 5: MT/MLS(ASCP) certification or H(ASCP) certification,AND a baccalaureate or master’s degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university, AND three years of full-timeacceptable experience as an academic educator in clinicalhematology at a regionally accredited college/university in theU.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the last sixyears. These three years of experience must be acquired postbaccalaureate degree; OR

Route 6: MT/MLS(ASCP) certification or H(ASCP) certification,AND a doctorate in chemistry, biology, immunology,microbiology, allied health, clinical laboratory sciences, or an

ASCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

NJ

UL

y 2

01

7

16

• Advanced coagulation (e.g., inhibitor assays,hypercoagulability)

• Body fluid evaluation • Bone marrow prep or evaluation • Budgeting/inventory control/purchasing • Cytochemical stains • Flow cytometry • Hemoglobinopathy evaluation • Method evaluation • Personnel management • Platelet function studies • PT/PTT mixing studies • QA/QI

SM(ASCP) Specialist in Microbiology To be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes:


Route 1: MT/MLS(ASCP) certification or M(ASCP) certification,AND a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND three years of full time acceptableexperience in the clinical laboratory in microbiology in the U.S.,Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the last six years.These three years of experience must be acquired postbaccalaureate degree; OR

Route 2: Master’s degree in chemistry, biology, immunology,microbiology, allied health, medical laboratory science, or anappropriately related field, from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND three years of full time acceptableexperience in the clinical laboratory in microbiology in the U.S.,Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the last six years.These three years of experience must be acquired postbaccalaureate degree; OR

Route 3: Doctorate in chemistry, biology, immunology,microbiology, allied health, medical laboratory science, or anappropriately related field, from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND two years of post-doctoral fellowship**in clinical microbiology in the U.S. or Canada or two years offull time acceptable experience in the clinical laboratory inmicrobiology in the U.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory*within the last five years. These two years of experience mustbe acquired post baccalaureate degree; OR

Route 4: MT/MLS(ASCP) certification or M(ASCP) certification,AND a Doctorate in chemistry, biology, immunology,microbiology, allied health, medical laboratory science, or anappropriately related field, from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND one year of full-time acceptablelaboratory experience in microbiology (clinical or research) in

the U.S. or Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the lastfive years; OR

Route 5: MT/MLS(ASCP) certification or M(ASCP) certification,AND a baccalaureate or Master’s degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university, AND three years of full timeacceptable experience as an academic educator in clinicalmicrobiology at a regionally accredited college/university in theU.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the last sixyears. These three years of experience must be acquired postbaccalaureate degree; OR

Route 6: MT/MLS(ASCP) certification or M(ASCP) certification,AND a Doctorate in chemistry, biology, immunology,microbiology, allied health, medical laboratory science, or anappropriately related field, from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND one year of fulltime acceptableexperience as an academic educator in clinical microbiology ata regionally accredited college/university in the U.S. or Canadaor an accredited laboratory* within the last five years.



Clinical Laboratory ExperienceTo fulfill the experience requirement for the Specialist inMicrobiology examination, you must have experience, withinthe time frame required in 4 of 6 of the following areas:

• Bacteriology • Molecular Microbiology • Mycobacteriology • Mycology • Parasitology • Virology

SCT(ASCP) Specialist inCytotechnology To be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes:

Route 1: CT(ASCP) certification, AND a baccalaureate degreeor higher from a regionally accredited college/university, ANDthree years of full time acceptable experi ence in the clinicallaboratory in cytology or in the U.S., Canada or an accreditedlaboratory* within the last six years. These three years ofexperience must be obtained following CT(ASCP) certification.

Route 2: CT(ASCP) certification, AND a baccalaureate degreeor higher from a regionally accredited college/university, ANDthree years of full time acceptable experi ence as an academiceducator in clinical cytology at a regionally accreditedcollege/university in the U.S., Canada, or an accredited

17

ASCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

NJ

UL

y 2

01

7

laboratory* within the last six years. These three years ofexperience must be obtained following CT(ASCP) certification.


SCYM(ASCP) Specialist in Cytometry To be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes:

Route 1: Minimum of a baccalaureate degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university with a major in biological/lifesciences, physics, engineering, or an appropriately related fieldor baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university with a combination of 30 semester hours (45quarter hours) of biology, chemistry, physics and/or medicalsciences, AND four years full time acceptable laboratoryexperience in cytometry (clinical*, research, industry, orveterinary) in the U.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory*within the last eight years; OR

Route 2: ASCP technologist/scientist or specialist certification,AND a minimum of a baccalaureate degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university, AND three years of full timeacceptable laboratory experience in cytometry (clinical*,research, industry, or veterinary) in the U.S., Canada or anaccredited laboratory* within the last six years; OR

Route 3: Master’s degree in biological/life sciences, physics,engineering, or an appropriately related field, from a regionallyaccredited college/university, AND three years of full timeacceptable laboratory experience in cytometry (clinical*,research, industry, or veterinary) in the U.S., Canada or anaccredited laboratory* within the last six years; OR

Route 4: Doctorate in biological/life sciences, physics,engineering or an appropriately related field from a regionallyaccredited college/university, AND two years of full timeacceptable laboratory experience in cytometry (clinical*,research, industry, or veterinary) in the U.S., Canada or anaccredited laboratory* within the last 4 years; OR

Route 5: ASCP technician certification, AND a minimum of anassociate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND 4.5 years (54 months) of full timeacceptable laboratory experience in cytometry (clinical*,research, industry, or veterinary) in the U.S., Canada or anaccredited laboratory* within the last nine years; OR

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Effective October 1, 2019Route 5 for the SCYM certification will be discontinued.Applications for Route 5 must be submitted by July 1, 2019.

Route 6: Minimum of an associate degree from a regionallyaccredited college/university with a major in biological/lifesciences, physics, engineering, or an appropriately related

field, or 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) from a regionallyaccredited college/university with a combination of 15semester hours (22 quarter hours) of biology, chemistry,physics, and/or medical sciences, AND five years of full timeacceptable laboratory experience in cytometry (clinical*,research, industry, or veterinary) in the U.S., Canada or anaccredited laboratory* within the last ten years.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Effective October 1, 2019Route 6 for the SCYM certification will be discontinued.Applications for Route 6 must be submitted by July 1, 2019.


Laboratory ExperienceTo fulfill the experience requirements for the Specialist inCytometry, you must have experience in flow cytometryapplications, cytometric analysis, and quality assurance asdescribed below.

Flow Cytometry ApplicationsExperience is required in at least one of the following:

• Immunophenotyping (e.g., CD4, leukemia/lymphoma,transplant)

• Cell sorting• Cell cycle analysis/DNA Ploidy• Apoptosis• Red blood cell analysis (e.g., PNH, fetal hemoglobin)• Progenitor cells• Therapeutic drug monitoring• Microorganism and/or microparticle analysis• Functional assays• Multiplex bead assays• Imaging cytometry• Rare event analysis

Cytometric AnalysisExperience is required in at least three of the following:

• Specimen processing• Instrument set-up• Specimen analysis• Data management• Interpretation of results

Quality AssuranceExperience is required in at least three of the following:

• Specimen collection, processing, storage• Reagent selection, preparation, storage, disposal• Assay selection, validation, documentation• Instrument operation and maintenance• Quality control and proficiency testing• Safety

ASCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

N

18

JU

Ly

2

01

7

Route 3: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND ASCP Board of Certificationtechnologist/scientist or specialist certification, AND at leastfour years of full time acceptable experience in clinicallaboratory supervision or management in the U.S., Canada oran accredited laboratory* within the last eight years; OR

Route 4: Doctorate in medicine, chemistry, biology,immunology, microbiology, allied health, clinical laboratorysciences, or an appropriately related field from a regionallyaccredited college/university, AND at least two years of fulltime acceptable experi ence in clinical laboratory supervision ormanagement in the U.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory*within the last five years; OR

Route 5: Baccalaureate degree in a management or businessrelated field from a regionally accredited college/university,AND at least four years of full time acceptable experience inclinical laboratory supervision or management in the U.S.,Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the last eight years;OR

Route 6: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND at least five years of full timeacceptable experience in clinical laboratory supervision ormanagement in the U.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory*within the last ten years.


Additional Documents Required for theDLM Examination If you own your own business, you must submit incorporationpapers or other form of ownership documentation.

Experience Requirements forManagement To fulfill the experience requirements for the Diplomate inLaboratory Management examination, you must haveexperience, within the time frame required, in twenty-two ofthe thirty-five areas listed below:

Financial Management

• Billing

• Budgets

• Capital equipment acquisition

• Cash flow analysis

• Contract negotiations

Diplomate Certification

DLM(ASCP) Diplomate in LaboratoryManagement To be eligible for this examination category, an applicant mustsatisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes:


Route 1: MBA or MHA or other management related Master’sdegree from a regionally accredited college/university, AND atleast two years of full time acceptable experience in clinicallaboratory supervision or management in the U.S., Canada oran accredited laboratory* within the last five years; OR

Route 2: Master’s degree from a regionally accreditedcollege/university, AND ASCP Board of Certificationtechnologist/scientist or specialist certification, AND at leasttwo years of full time acceptable experience in clinicallaboratory supervision or management in the U.S., Canada oran accredited laboratory* within the last five years; OR

• Cost analysis

• Financial accounting

• Labor resource management

• Materials management

• Utilization/reimbursement management

Operations Management

• Communications

• Data management

• Development, evaluation, and/or validation of newtechnology/tests

• Facilities management

• Information technology

• Intra/Interdepartmental relations

• Marketing

• Safety and emergency management

• Strategic planning and growth

Personnel Management

• Conflict resolution

• Education and training/continuing education

• Job descriptions

• Performance management

• Performance standards

• Personnel engagement

• Personnel regulatory compliance

• Recruiting and hiring

• Staffing and scheduling

• Succession planning and staff development

• Wage and salary administration

Quality Management

• Accreditation

• Performance improvement

• Productivity assessment and process improvement

• Regulatory compliance and licensure

• Risk management/medical-legal issues

19

ASCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

NJ

UL

y 2

01

7

ASCP B

OARD O

F C

ERTIFIC

ATIO

NJ

UL

y 2

01

7

20

Official Documents Required

An official transcript from a regionally accreditedcollege/university bearing the seal of the college/university,the signature of the Registrar and the date your degree wasconferred must be submitted to our office upon completionof all degree require ments. All degree requirements must becompleted before you will be allowed to sit for theexamination. An official transcript verifying the date yourdegree was conferred is required before you will be certifiedand your examination score emailed to you.

*NAACLS—National Accrediting Agency for ClinicalLaboratory Sciences

*CAAHEP—Commission on Accreditation of Allied HealthEducation Programs

*ABHES—Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools

* Note: Applicants from NAACLS/CAAHEP/ABHES accredited programs whodo not appear OR fail the examination and wish to reapply, will not be sent anadmission letter until the ASCP Board of Certification receives an officialtranscript verifying degree and date of degree conferral.

2.Academic work completed at a regionally accreditedUnited States college/university or an accreditedCanadian university—official transcript from the regionallyaccredited college/university, bearing the embossed seal ofthe college/university, the signa ture of the Registrar and thedate the degree was conferred, must be submitted to ouroffice in order to determine eligibility.

If the academic requirements state courses are required inbiology and chemistry, the courses listed on the officialtranscript must be in the biology and/or chemistrydepartments.

Regionally accredited colleges or universities are accreditedby one of the following associations:

HLC—Higher Learning Commission

MSCHE—Middle States Commission on Higher Education

NWCCU—Northwest Commission on Colleges andUniversities

NEASC-CIHE—New England Association of Schools andColleges, Inc.

SACS/COC—Southern Association of Colleges andSchools/ Commission on Colleges

WASC-ACCJC or WSCUC—Western Association ofSchools and Colleges; WASC Senior College and UniversityCommission

If you are applying for one of the following certifications,Specialist in Blood Banking (SBB), Specialist in Chemistry(SC), Specialist in Cytotechnology (SCT), Specialist inHematology (SH), Specialist in Microbiology (SM) or

Identify the Examination You’reApplying for and Determine YourEligibilityFor each certification category, you’ll find a choice of routesthat you must meet to establish your eligibility for theexamination. You are required to choose a route of eligibilitydepending on the education, training and experience you’vecompleted. Be sure you meet the eligibility requirements asstated and are able to provide the appropriate documentationbefore submitting your application and appplication fee.Application fees are non-refundable. (Remember: You canonly apply for one category within a three-month period.) Findout the eligibility requirements for your category athttp://www.ascp.org/content/board-of-certification/getcertified#tabs-eligibility

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: If you have a 3 year timelimited certification as a Technician, Technologist or Specialistand you do not complete the Credential Maintenance Program(CMP) to maintain your certification, your ASCP certification willno longer be valid. You will be ineligible to apply for acertification examination under a route which requirescertification. Your certification must be current.

Documentation Required Eligibility to take a certification examination is established by:

• Meeting the stated minimum requirements for the particularcategory of certification (pages 4 �