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[ Home ](https://mdster.com) 2. [ Neurology ](https://mdster.com/speciality/neurology) 3. ABN ABN Exam Preparation ====================== Título de Especialista em Neurologia Academia Brasileira de Neurologia, in association with Associação Médica Brasileira Brazil The Brazilian Academy of Neurology conducts the examination for the specialist title in neurology under the Brazilian Medical Association's framework. Eligible physicians complete theoretical, multimedia/practical, and curriculum-assessment stages defined in the current examination notice. First Phase — Theoretical Examination Second Phase — Multimedia and Practical Examinations Third Phase — Curriculum Assessment 5,236+ Questions 5,745+ Flashcards About the ABN Exam -------------------- The Título de Especialista em Neurologia (TEN) is the official board certification for neurologists in Brazil, awarded by the Academia Brasileira de Neurologia (ABN) in partnership with the Associação Médica Brasileira (AMB). Earning this credential is required to obtain the Registro de Qualificação de Especialista (RQE) with the Conselho Federal de Medicina (CFM). The rigorous evaluation consists of a remote theoretical exam, in-person practical and multimedia assessments, and a curriculum vitae evaluation. ### Eligibility Candidates must hold an active, unrestricted medical registration (CRM) in Brazil and possess a certificate of moral and ethical standing from their regional council. Eligible applicants must either have completed a CNRM/MEC-accredited medical residency program in Neurology (minimum 3 years) or provide verifiable proof of clinical practice in Neurology for at least double the standard residency period (minimum 6 years), compliant with AMB and CFM resolutions. ### Exam Format The examination comprises three distinct stages: Phase 1 is an eliminatory remote theoretical examination consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions (4 options each, randomized order, no backtracking permitted); Phase 2 consists of an in-person multimedia exam (20 image- and video-based clinical questions) and a practical clinical OSCE examining semiology, diagnosis, and case management; Phase 3 is a documentary curriculum evaluation scoring scientific, academic, and professional production. ### Duration Phase 1 (Theoretical) lasts 3 hours (typically 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM). Phase 2 (Multimedia and Practical) takes place over 1 to 2 consecutive days in São Paulo, with dedicated morning sessions for multimedia and scheduled OSCE circuit rotations. ### Passing Criteria In Phase 1, candidates must attain at least 60% (60 out of 100 points) to be eligible for Phase 2. In Phase 2, candidates must achieve a passing grade (typically 6.0 out of 10.0 or 60% weighted score) across the multimedia and practical stations. The final score integrates the weighted marks of the theoretical exam, practical components, and curriculum analysis as defined in the specific annual edital. ### Exam Fees The total examination fee is typically between R$ 2,000 and R$ 4,000 for non-members, payable in two installments (the first upon registration and the second upon qualification for Phase 2). Active members of the Academia Brasileira de Neurologia (ABN) or Associação Médica Brasileira (AMB) in good standing receive a 50% discount on both installments. ### Exam Frequency Held once annually, with the edital released in the first half of the year and examinations scheduled between July and September. ### Registration Process Registration is conducted online via the designated testing platform (such as eduCAT) accessed through the ABN website. Applicants must complete the registration form, upload certified copies of their CRM, certificate of ethical standing, proof of completed residency or clinical training, pay the initial phase fee, and successfully complete a mandatory pre-test verification for the remote proctored software. ABN Key Syllabus Topics ------------------------- Core topics and subject areas covered in the ABN examination ### Cerebrovascular Diseases (Stroke & Neurovascular) Pathophysiology, acute reperfusion protocols (IV thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy), secondary prevention, intracranial hemorrhage, venous thrombosis, and vascular malformations. ~15-20% ### Epilepsy and Paroxysmal Disorders Classification of seizures and epileptic syndromes (ILAE guidelines), electroencephalogram (EEG) interpretation, antiseizure medications, status epilepticus management, and surgical evaluation. ~12-15% ### Movement Disorders Parkinson's disease, atypical parkinsonism, tremor, dystonias, chorea, ataxia, and advanced therapeutic interventions including deep brain stimulation (DBS) and botulinum toxin application. ~10-14% ### Neuromuscular Diseases and Peripheral Neuropathies Motor neuron disease, acquired and hereditary neuropathies, neuromuscular junction disorders (myasthenia gravis), myopathies, and basic electromyography (EMG) interpretation. ~10-14% ### Neuroimmunology and Demyelinating Disorders Multiple sclerosis diagnosis (McDonald criteria) and disease-modifying therapies, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), MOGAD, and autoimmune encephalitides. ~10-12% ### Cognitive and Behavioral Neurology Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal lobar degeneration, vascular dementia, prion diseases, biomarker interpretations (CSF and PET), and delirium. ~8-12% ### Neuroinfections Bacterial and viral meningitis/encephalitis, neurotuberculosis, neurocysticercosis, neuroschistosomiasis, fungal infections, and neurological manifestations of HIV/AIDS. ~8-10% ### Headache and Craniofacial Pain Migraine mechanisms and targeted preventive therapeutics (e.g., CGRP antagonists), trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias, secondary headaches, and red flag evaluation. ~6-8% ### Neuro-oncology and Paraneoplastic Syndromes Primary central nervous system tumors (WHO classification), metastatic disease, leptomeningeal carcinomatosis, and paraneoplastic neurological syndromes with associated neural autoantibodies. ~5-8% ### Neurocritical Care and Coma Elevated intracranial pressure management, brain death determination protocol (Resolution CFM), comatose patient evaluation, and status epilepticus refractory algorithms. ~5-8% ### Sleep Disorders and Autonomic Neurology Obstructive sleep apnea, narcolepsy, REM sleep behavior disorder, polysomnography evaluation, and autonomic failure syndromes. ~4-6% ### Clinical Neurological Examination and Semiology Topographic diagnosis, cranial nerve examination, reflex testing, coordination assessment, vestibular testing (e.g., HINTS protocol), and localization of nervous system lesions. ~Core Practical Component **12** key topics covered Start Your ABN Preparation Today ---------------------------------- Comprehensive study materials designed to help you pass the ABN with confidence [ Get Started Free ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) No credit card required • 5-day free trial Everything You Need to Pass the ABN ------------------------------------- A complete preparation platform with tools designed for Neurology professionals ### Practice Questions 5,236+ questions across MCQ, SAQ, SOE formats with detailed explanations and references ### Flashcards 5,745+ flashcards for active recall — mark known and unknown cards to focus on weak areas ### Timed Mock Exams Simulate real exam conditions with timed sessions, customisable question counts, and topic filters ### AI-Powered Q&A Ask follow-up questions on any topic and get instant, contextual answers with references ### Performance Analytics Track your progress, identify weak areas, and monitor your exam readiness with detailed analytics ABN Exam Structure -------------------- Our materials cover all parts of the ABN examination ### First Phase — Theoretical Examination The First Phase — Theoretical Examination is an eliminatory, remote written assessment designed to evaluate a candidate's comprehensive mastery of clinical neurology, neuroanatomy, and pathophysiology. Administered online under digital proctoring, it assesses evidence-based diagnostic reasoning, pharmacology, and management across the entire spectrum of neurological disorders. Achieving the cutoff on this test is mandatory for candidates seeking eligibility to proceed to the practical and multimedia evaluations in the second phase. Online multiple-choice examination (100 questions with 4 answer options each, sequential navigation via a remote proctored platform) 3 hours (180 minutes) Pass: 60% (minimum of 60 correct answers out of 100) Key Topics Cerebrovascular Diseases Epilepsy and Paroxysmal Disorders Neuromuscular and Peripheral Nerve Disorders Movement Disorders Neuroimmunology and Demyelinating Conditions Cognitive and Behavioral Neurology +2 more ### Second Phase — Multimedia and Practical Examinations The Second Phase of the Título de Especialista em Neurologia (ABN) is an in-person assessment evaluating candidates' clinical decision-making, visual diagnostic skills, and bedside neurological semiology. It combines a multimedia examination—featuring neuroimaging, clinical videos, neurophysiological recordings, and neuropathology—with a practical clinical examination involving hands-on physical exam maneuvers and oral case defense before a board of examiners. The phase tests the candidate's capacity to synthesize clinical information, establish topographic and etiological diagnoses, and articulate appropriate evidence-based therapeutic plans. In-person examination combining a 20-question visual/multimedia assessment (video vignettes, neuroimaging, electrophysiology, and neuropathology) and an individual practical clinical examination involving physical examination performance and an oral case defense with an examining panel. Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours for the multimedia examination, plus an individual practical clinical examination station lasting approximately 20 to 40 minutes. Pass: Minimum score of 60% (6.0/10.0) across the Second Phase components, contributing 40% to the overall title qualification score (10% multimedia, 30% practical) where a final cumulative grade of at least 70% (70.0/100) is required. Key Topics Neuroimaging Interpretation Bedside Neurological Examination and Semiology Neurophysiology and Electrodiagnostic Studies Movement Disorders and Video-Based Semiology Neuromuscular and Peripheral Nerve Disorders Emergency and Inpatient Neurological Management ### Third Phase — Curriculum Assessment The Third Phase — Curriculum Assessment of the Título de Especialista em Neurologia (TEN) is an administrative scoring stage conducted by the Academia Brasileira de Neurologia (ABN) and Associação Médica Brasileira (AMB). It systematically evaluates the candidate's professional trajectory, formal postgraduate training, continuous medical education, and academic output against an official scoring matrix (barema). This stage accounts for 10% of the candidate's final composite score in the specialist certification process. Documentary curriculum evaluation and dossier audit based on a standardized scoring barema submitted electronically via the official candidate portal Asynchronous administrative assessment; candidates upload documents during a specified registration window with no live examination time Pass: No standalone minimum passing cut-off; scored out of 10 points (normalized to 100) and weighted at 10% (factor 0.1) toward the overall minimum final pass mark of 70% (7.0/10) Key Topics Medical Residency and Accredited Training Continuous Medical Education and Congress Attendance Academic Degrees (Stricto Sensu) Scientific Publications Scientific Presentations and Abstracts ABN Membership and Professional Affiliation How to Prepare for the ABN ---------------------------- A practical guide to help you plan your ABN preparation effectively ### Recommended Timeline 6 to 12 months of structured study, combining core neurology textbook reviews, recent Brazilian Academy of Neurology consensuses, and image/video case practices. ### Study Tips - Master the technical and visual aspects: Phase 2 includes multimedia questions, so regularly review neuroimaging (MRI, CT, angiographies) and electrophysiological tracings (EEG, EMG). - Review official Brazilian medical guidelines and ABN consensus statements published in Arquivos de Neuro-Psiquiatria, as country-specific protocols are heavily tested. - Familiarize yourself with the Brazilian legal protocol for brain death determination (CFM guidelines), as it is a recurrent, mandatory station topic. - Simulate practical stations: Practice bedside neurological examination steps, cranial nerve testing maneuvers, and structured verbal delivery under time constraints. - Train with timed multiple-choice blocks without returning to previous questions, accurately mirroring the eduCAT testing platform mechanism used in Phase 1. - Organize your curriculum vitae documentation early according to the scoring barema in the edital to maximize non-exam points in Phase 3. ### High-Yield Topics - Acute ischemic stroke protocols, mechanical thrombectomy indications, and neuroimaging ASPECTS scoring - Multiple Sclerosis diagnostic revisions (McDonald Criteria) and baseline versus high-efficacy disease-modifying drugs - Status epilepticus phased pharmacological management and EEG pattern recognition - Differential diagnosis of parkinsonian syndromes and movement disorder semiology - Guillain-Barré syndrome variants and acute myasthenic crisis management - CFM criteria for the determination of brain death and organ donation protocols - Treatable dementias, CSF/plasma biomarkers, and clinical criteria for neurodegenerative dementias ### Common Pitfalls - Neglecting multimedia preparation: Candidates often excel at theory but struggle with interpreting raw EEG epochs, neurosonology, or abnormal movement video clips. - Poor time management in Phase 1: Spending too long on early questions without realizing the software does not allow backtracking to skipped items. - Skipping system pre-testing: Missing the mandatory technical check on the remote proctor platform can lead to disqualification before sitting Phase 1. - Underestimating semiology stations: In Phase 2, examiners evaluate systematic bedside physical examination technique, ergonomics, and communication, not just the final diagnosis. - Disregarding the curriculum documentation requirements: Failing to supply certified proof for listed publications, CME points, or academic degrees reduces Phase 3 scoring. ### Recommended Resources - Arquivos de Neuro-Psiquiatria (Official Journal of the Academia Brasileira de Neurologia) - Tratado de Neurologia da Academia Brasileira de Neurologia (Joaquim Pereira Brasil Neto et al.) - Adams and Victor's Principles of Neurology (Ropper, Samuels, Klein, and Prasad) - Bradley's Neurology in Clinical Practice (Jankovic, Mazziotta, Pomeroy, and Newman) - Official Consensuses and Guidelines from the Academia Brasileira de Neurologia (ABN) - Resoluções do Conselho Federal de Medicina (CFM), particularly regarding Brain Death Determination Study Pathways ---------------- Choose the pathway that matches your ABN preparation stage ### Neurology Core Pathway Core pathway for Neurology covering foundational exams and initial certification steps. #### What's Included 1,487 MCQ Questions 793 SAQ Questions 2,952 Flashcards 5,232 total study resources #### Exam Coverage ABN First Phase — Theoretical Examination [ Start Learning ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) ### Neurology Advanced Pathway Advanced pathway for Neurology covering final exams, oral assessments, and advanced clinical evaluations. #### What's Included 1,690 MCQ Questions 1,166 SAQ Questions 100 SOE Questions 2,793 Flashcards 5,749 total study resources #### Exam Coverage ABN Second Phase — Multimedia and Practical Examinations ABN Third Phase — Curriculum Assessment [ Start Learning ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) Last refreshed: October 2026 Flexible Pricing Plans ------------------------ Choose the plan that fits your ABN study schedule ### Try Risk-Free for 5 Days Start your free trial today and get full access to all ABN features\*. **No credit card required**. Cancel anytime. No Commitment! Full platform access All study materials Analytics & tracking Cancel anytime \* AI SOE Examiner is limited to 10 cases monthly for Advanced & Bundle subscribers. ### Neurology Core Pathway Core pathway for Neurology covering foundational exams and initial certification steps. #### Monthly Flexible month-to-month $12.00 /month Cancel anytime Immediate access Save 8% #### 3 Months Popular Great for exam cycles $11.00 /month Billed $33.00 every 3 months Save 8% vs monthly Perfect for exam cycles Save 17% #### 6 Months Maximum savings $10.00 /month Billed $60.00 every 6 months Save 17% vs monthly Best value for serious learners ### Neurology Advanced Pathway Advanced pathway for Neurology covering final exams, oral assessments, and advanced clinical evaluations. #### Monthly Flexible month-to-month $15.00 /month Cancel anytime Immediate access Save 13% #### 3 Months Popular Great for exam cycles $13.00 /month Billed $39.00 every 3 months Save 13% vs monthly Perfect for exam cycles Save 20% #### 6 Months Maximum savings $12.00 /month Billed $72.00 every 6 months Save 20% vs monthly Best value for serious learners ### Neurology Bundle (Core + Advanced) Bundle subscription for Neurology: Core + Advanced pathways with all features included. #### Monthly Flexible month-to-month $20.00 /month Cancel anytime Immediate access Save 15% #### 3 Months Popular Great for exam cycles $17.00 /month Billed $51.00 every 3 months Save 15% vs monthly Perfect for exam cycles Save 25% #### 6 Months Maximum savings $15.00 /month Billed $90.00 every 6 months Save 25% vs monthly Best value for serious learners Latest ABN Updates -------------------- Recent changes and developments for the ABN examination 2026 ### Split Payment Structure and Tiered Examination Fee Recent editais feature an installment-based payment system, requiring an initial fee for Phase 1 and a secondary payment only upon being shortlisted for Phase 2. Candidates should verify the exact figures in the active edital on the ABN portal. 2025 ### Digital Platform Integration for Remote Theoretical Phase Phase 1 is conducted using dedicated remote testing platforms (such as eduCAT) with mandatory system pre-tests, strict webcam proctoring, and non-backtracking question sequences. 2024 ### Consolidated In-Person Practical and Multimedia Sessions The multimedia phase and the clinical OSCE stations are coordinated as an intensive in-person assessment round held in São Paulo for all Phase 1 qualifiers. 2024 ### Alignment with CFM Resolution 2.380/2024 Prerequisites and documentation verification have been aligned with updated CFM and AMB resolutions governing specialty titles and practice duration equivalency. Updates are based on publicly available information and may not reflect the very latest changes. Always verify with the official Academia Brasileira de Neurologia, in association with Associação Médica Brasileira website. Related Neurology Exams ------------------------- Other examinations in Neurology you may be interested in [ ### ABHS Arab Board of Health Specializations Arab countries ](https://mdster.com/speciality/neurology/abhs-neurology) [ ### ABPN American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology USA ](https://mdster.com/speciality/neurology/abpn-neurology) [ ### AOBNP American Osteopathic Board of Neurology and Psychiatry USA ](https://mdster.com/speciality/neurology/aobnp-neurology) [ ### DrNB Doctorate National Board in Neurology India ](https://mdster.com/speciality/neurology/drnb) [ ### EBN European Board of Neurology Europe; international candidates accepted ](https://mdster.com/speciality/neurology/ebn) [ ### FC Neurol(SA) Fellowship of the College of Neurologists of South Africa South Africa ](https://mdster.com/speciality/neurology/fc-neurol-sa) Frequently Asked Questions ---------------------------- Everything you need to know about ABN preparation ### Who is eligible to take the Título de Especialista em Neurologia (TEN)? Physicians registered with an active CRM in Brazil who have completed a 3-year CNRM/MEC-accredited residency in Neurology, or those who can formally prove at least 6 years of neurological practice as recognized by AMB and CFM standards, are eligible to apply. ### What is the format of the exam? The exam consists of three phases: Phase 1 is a remote, online theoretical exam featuring 100 multiple-choice questions; Phase 2 consists of an in-person multimedia test (20 image/video questions) and practical OSCE stations in São Paulo; Phase 3 is a curriculum evaluation. ### What score is required to pass Phase 1? Candidates must achieve a minimum score of 60% (60 points out of 100) on the theoretical examination. Attaining this threshold is mandatory to be invited to Phase 2. ### How difficult is the ABN specialist exam, and what are the pass rates? The exam is recognized as highly demanding because it tests comprehensive subspecialty knowledge, clinical reasoning, video analysis, and hands-on semiology. Historical pass rates generally fluctuate between 45% and 65% among all examinees. ### How much does it cost to take the exam? The standard full fee generally ranges between R$ 2,000 and R$ 4,000, divided into two phase-specific installments. Fully paid-up members of the ABN or AMB receive a 50% discount on both installments. ### How long should I prepare for the ABN board certification? Most candidates dedicate between 6 and 12 months to thorough preparation. Resident physicians often study throughout their final year of training, focusing particularly on clinical guidelines, neuroimaging, and EEG/EMG interpretation. ### Can I navigate back to previous questions during the remote theoretical test? No. Under the testing platform rules used by ABN, questions are presented randomly one by one, and candidates cannot return to modify answers or complete skipped questions once advanced. ### What happens if I fail the practical examination (Phase 2)? Candidates who fail Phase 2 must retake the entire examination cycle in a future year, including the Phase 1 theoretical examination, as scores and eligibility are not carried over between annual calls. ### Where does Phase 2 take place? While Phase 1 is conducted remotely via an online proctored software, Phase 2 (multimedia and OSCE stations) is held in-person at a designated testing center or hospital in the city of São Paulo. ### What is the importance of obtaining the specialist title through ABN/AMB? Passing the exam grants the official Título de Especialista em Neurologia, allowing physicians to register their Registro de Qualificação de Especialista (RQE) with their regional medical council (CRM). This registration is legally mandatory to advertise oneself as a neurologist in Brazil. Ready to Pass the ABN? ------------------------ Join medical professionals who are preparing for the Título de Especialista em Neurologia with MDster [ Get Started Free ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) No credit card required • Cancel anytime [ MDster home ](/ "MDster home") Master your medical exams with evidence-based learning. 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