IAC International Board of Cytopathology

Admission Requirements

This voluntary examination is open to applicants who have been medical members (MIAC) of the IAC for at least two years preceding the examination date.

Please note: IAC Membership or Fellowship does not circumvent regulations of licensing agencies of individual countries. Before seeking employment in another country it is advisable to check the national regulations.

The completed application form can be submitted on-line for approval. Accompanying documents and a small photograph can be uploaded.

You will be asked for the name and email address of a medical colleague who can attest to your professional standards.

The examination fee is Euro 450. Payment can be made on-line. If a candidate is unable to attend a new site can be selected. If necessary the payment can also be refunded.

From 2024 the examinations will be held digitally and not at a microscope. It will be necessary to bring your own WLAN capable laptop and charger.

(Test your hardware at the mock digital exam page) (Link to Exam schedule)

Mission Statement

The International Board of Cytopathology serves to:

Create an international network of recognized experts in the field of cytopathology. Give cytopathologists the opportunity to test their abilities in their field of practice. To allow cytopathologists to register with the International Board of Cytopathology To enhance mutual exchange and understanding on a global basis. Learn more about our Requirements, the Application process and our History.

Successful candidates receive a certificate of the IAC International Board of Cytopathology. They are also invited to become Fellow of the International Academy of Cytology for the duration of their membership in the IAC.

Examination Details

From 2025 the examinations will be held digitally and without a microscope. Have a go at the mock exam.

Major emphasis lies on personal experience. Practice in cytopathology of all body sites on a regular basis should serve as sufficient preparation for the exam.

Please see below for recommended reading

The test is comprehensive and covers all body sites. (For example: Gynecologic, Urine, sputum, fluids and
fine needle aspirations of multiple organs).

There are approximately 80 written questions, 72 visual image questions and 30 digital slides.

The examination questions are exclusively multiple choice.

The examination lasts approximately six hours with short breaks.

The examination for the International Board of Cytopathology is given approximately six to eight times each year worldwide.

Recommended reading

  • The Bethesda System for Reporting Cervical Cytology
  • The Bethesda System for Reporting on Thyroid Cytopathology
  • Cytology Diagnostic Principles and Clinical Correlates; Cibas
  • Comprehensive Cytopathology Bibbo and Wilbur
  • Diagnostic Pathology Cytopathology Mody Thrall Krishnamurthy
  • Paris 2.0
  • The International System for Serous Fluid Cytopathology

WHO Textbooks:

  • Lung
  • Pancreaticobiliary
  • Breast
  • Lymph node
  • Soft tissue

How to Apply

The application is on-line. The items below will be required to upload and accompany your application

  • Your specialist subject certification
  • A copy of your current CV/Resume
  • A small photograph of yourself (for internal use only)
  • Name and email address of a medical physician who can attest to your character and professional standards as a letter of recommendation.  They will receive a request email automatically.
  • The IAC International Board of Cytopathology Examination fee is 450 Euro. Payment can be made on-line by credit card or paypal.  Please use this link to a secure payment portal. Select Application Fee Cytopathology Board Examination 450 €
  • Link to on-line application form