Key Takeaways
- You must graduate from a CAAHEP-accredited surgical technology program to be eligible for the CST exam
- Military training in surgical technology may qualify under an alternate eligibility pathway
- Exam applications are submitted online through the NBSTSA website
- AST membership reduces the exam fee from $340 to $230
- Rush processing is available for an additional $85 and takes 3-5 business days
- Your Authorization to Test (ATT) letter is valid for 60 days once issued
- Testing is available at PSI testing centers nationwide and via live remote proctoring
- If you fail, you may retake the exam after a 30-day waiting period
Last updated: February 2026
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the CST exam, you must meet one of the following pathways:
Primary Pathway
- Graduate from a surgical technology program accredited by CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs)
- Your program must include both didactic (classroom) and clinical components
Alternate Pathways
- Military training: Graduates of military surgical technology programs may qualify
- International graduates: Graduates of international surgical technology programs may be eligible through a credential evaluation process
Registration Process
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Create NBSTSA account | Visit nbstsa.org to register |
| 2 | Complete application | Provide education transcripts and program verification |
| 3 | Pay exam fee | $230 (AST members) or $340 (non-members) |
| 4 | Receive ATT letter | Authorization to Test valid for 60 days |
| 5 | Schedule exam | Book at PSI testing center or choose remote proctoring |
| 6 | Take the exam | 175 questions in 4 hours |
| 7 | Receive results | 2-3 weeks standard or 3-5 days with rush processing ($85) |
Retake Policy
If you do not pass the CST exam:
- You must wait 30 days before retaking the exam
- You must pay the full exam fee again ($230 or $340)
- There is no limit on the number of retake attempts
- Your ATT must be valid or you must reapply
Remote Proctoring Requirements
PSI offers live remote proctoring as an alternative to in-person testing:
- Computer: Windows or Mac with webcam, microphone, and speakers
- Internet: Stable broadband connection
- Environment: Quiet, private room with clean desk
- ID: Government-issued photo identification
- Prohibited: Notes, phones, additional monitors, other people in the room
Test Your Knowledge
What is the primary eligibility requirement for the CST exam?
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Test Your Knowledge
How long is the Authorization to Test (ATT) letter valid once issued?
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Test Your KnowledgeFill in the Blank
After failing the CST exam, candidates must wait _____ days before retaking it.
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