The score required to pass the Written Qualifying Examination is determined by a standard-setting methodology. This method requires a group of peers to estimate the minimum level of clinical decision-making and medical knowledge an ophthalmologist requires to practice competently. The examination employs a criterion-referenced passing standard, which means scoring is not done “on the curve,” i.e., that a certain percentage of candidates will pass or fail. For every administration, it is possible for all examinees to pass if they achieve a score at or above the passing standard. Continue on to the WQE Score Report section to learn more about what to expect when you receive your score report.
Results
Results are released 6-8 weeks following the examination. The ABO does not release information regarding the specific number of items needed to pass. Percentile ranks are not released to candidates because an individual’s performance on this examination in relation to peers is not being assessed and does not affect your score. Continue on to the WQE Score Report section to learn more about what to expect when you receive your score report.
Why so long?
The ABO is often asked why it takes 6-8 weeks to issue your WQE results. We understand that waiting for this important news is difficult and that the digitized examination format creates an expectation for immediate feedback. However, please be assured that the extended timeline ultimately works to your benefit. During this post-examination period, extensive quality assurance checks take place to ensure that your test result is fair and accurate. For example, all WQE content is re-reviewed by teams of subject matter experts in accordance with psychometric standards to identify potentially flawed questions. If the ABO determines that a question with more than one correct answer (or no correct answer) has made it onto the WQE, then test-takers are not penalized for this item.
What’s next?
Successful Candidates: Congratulations – you are one step closer to becoming a diplomate of the ABO! In your WQE results letter, you will be invited to register for the Oral Examination, the final stage in the certification process.
Unsuccessful Candidates: Do not worry – you can try again! You will be notified when registration for the next WQE administration opens. Keep in mind the Board Eligibility Policy requires successful completion of board certification requirements (written and oral examination) within seven years of residency graduation.
Need more help with this?
Don’t hesitate to contact us here.
