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[ Home ](https://mdster.com) 2. [ Pediatrics ](https://mdster.com/speciality/pediatrics) 3. ABHS ABHS Exam Preparation ======================= Arab Board of Health Specializations Arab Board of Health Specializations Middle East The Arab Board of Health Specializations (ABHS) is a regional certifying body that provides standardized postgraduate specialty certification across many Arab countries. Its examination framework includes a preliminary exam followed by final cognitive (written) and final practical (clinical) examinations, supporting a harmonized benchmark for specialty competence. Arab Board certification is commonly recognized by healthcare systems and employers across the Middle East and North Africa. Arab Board Preliminary Exam Arab Board Final Cognitive Exam Arab Board Final Practical Exam 4,216+ Questions 3,300+ Flashcards 60+ Podcasts About the ABHS Exam --------------------- The Arab Board of Health Specializations (ABHS) Pediatrics examination is a rigorous, multi-part assessment designed to certify the clinical competence of pediatric trainees across the Arab world. Passing this examination grants the Arab Board Certificate, a highly respected qualification that designates a physician as a specialist in Pediatrics. The credential is widely recognized by healthcare authorities and employers throughout the Middle East and North Africa. ### Eligibility Candidates must be enrolled in or have successfully completed an ABHS-accredited Pediatrics residency training program. The Preliminary exam is typically taken during the first or second year of training (PGY1/PGY2), while the Final Cognitive and Practical exams require completion of the full training period and approval from the local training center and scientific council. ### Exam Format The examination is divided into three parts. The Preliminary Exam consists of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) focusing on basic and foundational pediatric clinical sciences. The Final Cognitive Exam is a comprehensive MCQ-based written test (often split into two papers). The Final Practical Exam utilizes Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) stations and clinical scenarios to assess history taking, physical examination, communication, and management skills. ### Duration The Preliminary and Final Cognitive exams are typically completed over 1 to 2 days, with each paper lasting 2.5 to 3 hours. The Final Practical (OSCE) exam generally takes half a day, consisting of multiple timed stations. ### Passing Criteria Candidates must achieve a designated passing score (typically around 60% or a scaled equivalent) on the written examinations. Passing the Final Cognitive Exam is a strict prerequisite for attempting the Final Practical Exam, which is scored based on standardized checklists and examiner global ratings. ### Exam Fees Fees are standardized centrally by the ABHS and are typically charged in USD. Approximate fees range from $150 to $300 for the Preliminary exam, $300 to $500 for the Final Cognitive Exam, and $400 to $700 for the Final Practical Exam. Candidates should verify current fee structures on the official ABHS website. ### Exam Frequency The exams are generally held once or twice a year. The written components are typically scheduled in the first quarter (e.g., February/March) and/or fourth quarter (e.g., October/November), while practical exams follow a few months after the written results are published. ### Registration Process Registration is conducted online via the official ABHS portal. Candidates must create an account, complete the application form, pay the required fees, and upload supporting documents, including training logbooks and approval letters from their regional program director. ABHS Key Syllabus Topics -------------------------- Core topics and subject areas covered in the ABHS examination ### Neonatology Covers neonatal resuscitation, prematurity, congenital anomalies, neonatal sepsis, respiratory distress syndrome, and neonatal jaundice. ~12-15% ### Pediatric Infectious Diseases & Immunology Focuses on common childhood infections, vaccination schedules, primary immunodeficiencies, and antimicrobial stewardship. ~10-15% ### Pediatric Emergency and Critical Care Encompasses the management of shock, trauma, status epilepticus, acute asthma exacerbations, toxicology, and advanced life support. ~10-12% ### Growth, Development, and Behavior Assessment of normal developmental milestones, failure to thrive, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, and behavioral challenges. ~8-10% ### Pediatric Neurology Includes epilepsy and seizure disorders, neurocutaneous syndromes, neuromuscular disorders, and cerebral palsy. ~6-8% ### Pediatric Pulmonology Covers asthma, cystic fibrosis, congenital lung anomalies, and chronic lung disease of prematurity. ~6-8% ### Pediatric Cardiology Focuses on congenital heart diseases (cyanotic and acyanotic), arrhythmias, rheumatic fever, and Kawasaki disease. ~6-8% ### Pediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology Includes chronic abdominal pain, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, malabsorption, and acute/chronic hepatitis. ~6-8% ### Pediatric Hematology & Oncology Covers anemias, bleeding disorders, leukemias, lymphomas, and common solid tumors in children. ~6-8% ### Pediatric Endocrinology & Metabolism Focuses on diabetes mellitus, thyroid disorders, growth hormone deficiency, adrenal disorders, and inborn errors of metabolism. ~6-8% ### Pediatric Nephrology Includes nephrotic syndrome, glomerulonephritis, urinary tract infections, congenital anomalies of the kidney, and renal failure. ~5-7% ### Genetics and Dysmorphology Covers chromosomal abnormalities, common genetic syndromes, genetic counseling, and dysmorphic evaluations. ~4-6% **12** key topics covered Start Your ABHS Preparation Today ----------------------------------- Comprehensive study materials designed to help you pass the ABHS with confidence [ Get Started Free ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) No credit card required • 5-day free trial Everything You Need to Pass the ABHS -------------------------------------- A complete preparation platform with tools designed for Pediatrics professionals ### Practice Questions 4,216+ questions across MCQ, SAQ, SOE formats with detailed explanations and references ### Flashcards 3,300+ flashcards for active recall — mark known and unknown cards to focus on weak areas ### Audio Podcasts 60+ audio episodes — learn on the go during commutes, workouts, or ward breaks ### 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 ABHS Exam Structure --------------------- Our materials cover all parts of the ABHS examination ### Arab Board Preliminary Exam The Arab Board Preliminary Exam (Part 1) in Pediatrics assesses a resident's foundational cognitive knowledge during the early stages of their training program. It functions as an entry-level checkpoint, focusing heavily on basic medical sciences applied to pediatrics, normal developmental milestones, and general pediatric principles. Passing this written assessment is mandatory before a candidate can progress to advanced clinical training and the final board examinations. Written examination consisting of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), typically utilizing a Single Best Answer (SBA) format. Typically 2.5 to 3 hours per paper (may be administered as one or two papers depending on the examination cycle). Pass: 60% Key Topics Basic Sciences and Pathophysiology Normal Growth and Development Neonatology Infectious Diseases and Immunology Genetics and Metabolic Disorders Preventive Pediatrics and Immunization +2 more ### Arab Board Final Cognitive Exam The Arab Board Final Cognitive Exam in Pediatrics is a comprehensive written assessment administered at the culmination of residency training. It rigorously evaluates a candidate's mastery of clinical pediatrics, evidence-based management, and safe clinical practice at a specialist level. Successfully passing this cognitive threshold is a strict prerequisite before advancing to the final practical clinical examination. Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), typically administered as Single Best Answer (SBA) across two separate examination papers. Usually 5 to 6 hours in total, divided into two distinct testing sessions or papers. Pass: Typically 60%, subject to standard-setting methodologies used by the Arab Board of Health Specializations. Key Topics Neonatology General Pediatrics and Development Pediatric Infectious Diseases Pediatric Emergency and Intensive Care Pediatric Respiratory Medicine Pediatric Neurology +2 more ### Arab Board Final Practical Exam The Arab Board Final Practical Exam in Pediatrics represents the culmination of the certification pathway, assessing a candidate's readiness for safe and independent practice as a pediatric specialist. It evaluates applied clinical competence, focusing on direct patient care, advanced physical examination skills, and structured clinical reasoning. Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) and Structured Oral Examination (SOE) Approximately 3 to 4 hours of active clinical and oral assessment Pass: A minimum score of 60% overall, subject to standardization by the ABHS Scientific Council of Pediatrics Key Topics Pediatric Physical Examination History Taking and Communication Clinical Reasoning and Management Data Interpretation Neonatology and Newborn Assessment Developmental and Behavioral Assessment +1 more How to Prepare for the ABHS ----------------------------- A practical guide to help you plan your ABHS preparation effectively ### Recommended Timeline 9-12 months of structured, continuous study covering the comprehensive pediatric curriculum. ### Study Tips - Base your core reading on the latest edition of Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, as it is the standard reference for Arab Board exams. - Practice extensively with board-style MCQs to build stamina and improve time management for the written exams. - Form clinical study groups early to practice OSCE stations, focusing heavily on communication skills and structured history-taking. - Review regional guidelines and local epidemiological data, as the Arab Board occasionally contextualizes questions to the Middle East and North Africa. - Utilize visual aids for dysmorphology, dermatology, and radiology, as image-based questions are common in both written and practical exams. - Focus on high-yield basic sciences like genetics and metabolic pathways during your preparation for the Preliminary exam. ### High-Yield Topics - Neonatal resuscitation and intensive care - Developmental milestones and their delays - Pediatric emergencies and critical care protocols (PALS) - Congenital heart disease presentations and hemodynamics - Vaccination schedules and contraindications - Fluid and electrolyte management in pediatric patients ### Common Pitfalls - Ignoring basic sciences (genetics, immunology) which heavily feature in the Preliminary Exam. - Relying solely on textbooks without practicing enough MCQs, leading to poor time management. - Failing to verbalize clinical reasoning during the Final Practical (OSCE) exam. - Neglecting communication and counseling stations, which carry significant weight in the clinical exam. - Studying non-pediatric adult guidelines rather than specific pediatric evidence-based protocols. ### Recommended Resources - Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics (Latest Edition) - Pediatric Board Study Guide: A Last Minute Review (by Osama Naga) - Harriet Lane Handbook (for clinical references and management) - Past Arab Board Pediatrics recall questions and local training center mock exams - Illustrated Textbook of Paediatrics (by Tom Lissauer) for clinical visuals Study Pathways ---------------- Choose the pathway that matches your ABHS preparation stage ### Pediatrics Core Pathway Core pathway for Pediatrics covering foundational exams and initial certification steps. #### What's Included 1,396 MCQ Questions 868 SAQ Questions 2,208 Flashcards 30 Podcasts 4,502 total study resources #### Exam Coverage ABHS Arab Board Preliminary Exam [ Start Learning ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) ### Pediatrics Advanced Pathway Advanced pathway for Pediatrics covering final exams, oral assessments, and advanced clinical evaluations. #### What's Included 1,068 MCQ Questions 784 SAQ Questions 100 SOE Questions 1,092 Flashcards 30 Podcasts 3,074 total study resources #### Exam Coverage ABHS Arab Board Final Cognitive Exam ABHS Arab Board Final Practical Exam [ Start Learning ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) Last refreshed: April 2026 Flexible Pricing Plans ------------------------ Choose the plan that fits your ABHS study schedule ### Try Risk-Free for 5 Days Start your free trial today and get full access to all ABHS features. **No credit card required**. Cancel anytime. No Commitment! Full platform access All study materials Analytics & tracking Cancel anytime ### Pediatrics Core Pathway Core pathway for Pediatrics 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 ### Pediatrics Advanced Pathway Advanced pathway for Pediatrics 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 ### Pediatrics Bundle (Core + Advanced) Bundle subscription for Pediatrics: 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 ABHS Updates --------------------- Recent changes and developments for the ABHS examination Recent Years ### Transition to Computer-Based Testing (CBT) The ABHS has increasingly transitioned its Preliminary and Final Cognitive examinations to computer-based formats at authorized testing centers. Candidates should verify testing center availability with the Arab Board of Health Specializations. 2023-2024 ### Standardization of OSCE Formats The Final Practical Exam has seen increased standardization across regional test centers, ensuring all candidates face similarly structured OSCE stations. Candidates should confirm the exact station format with their local scientific council. 2024 ### Updated Syllabus Weighting Recent iterations of the exam have placed an increased emphasis on pediatric emergency medicine, intensive care, and regional infectious diseases. Candidates should review the latest curriculum guidelines issued by the ABHS. Updates are based on publicly available information and may not reflect the very latest changes. Always verify with the official Arab Board of Health Specializations website. Related Pediatrics Exams -------------------------- Other examinations in Pediatrics you may be interested in [ ### ABP American Board of Pediatrics USA ](https://mdster.com/speciality/pediatrics/abp) [ ### AOBP American Osteopathic Board of Pediatrics USA ](https://mdster.com/speciality/pediatrics/aobp) [ ### EBP-EAP European Board of Paediatrics – European Academy of Paediatrics Examination Europe ](https://mdster.com/speciality/pediatrics/ebp-eap) [ ### FCPS Fellowship of the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan Pakistan ](https://mdster.com/speciality/pediatrics/fcps-pediatrics) [ ### MRCPCH Membership of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health UK ](https://mdster.com/speciality/pediatrics/mrcpch) [ ### RACP The Royal Australasian College of Physicians Australia/New Zealand ](https://mdster.com/speciality/pediatrics/racp-pediatrics) Frequently Asked Questions ---------------------------- Everything you need to know about ABHS preparation What is the Arab Board of Health Specializations (ABHS) Pediatrics Exam? The ABHS Pediatrics Exam is a standardized, multi-part board certification examination that evaluates the clinical competence of pediatric trainees. It includes a Preliminary exam, a Final Cognitive (written) exam, and a Final Practical (clinical/OSCE) exam. Passing all parts grants the candidate specialist status recognized across most Arab countries. Who is eligible to take the ABHS Pediatrics exams? Eligibility is restricted to physicians actively enrolled in or who have completed an accredited pediatric residency program recognized by the Arab Board. Trainees usually sit for the Preliminary exam in their first or second year, and the Final exams upon completing their residency. What is the format of the Final Cognitive Exam? The Final Cognitive Exam consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) designed to test comprehensive pediatric medical knowledge. It is typically divided into two papers administered on the same day or over two consecutive days, delivered via computer-based testing (CBT). How is the Final Practical Exam structured? The Final Practical Exam uses an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) format. Candidates rotate through multiple timed stations where they interact with standardized patients, interpret lab results, demonstrate physical exam skills, and counsel patients or parents. Is the Arab Board certification recognized internationally? The Arab Board certification is highly prestigious and universally recognized by Ministries of Health and healthcare institutions across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. While it demonstrates a high level of specialist training, recognition outside the MENA region depends on the specific country's medical licensing authority. How much does the exam cost? Exam fees vary depending on the part of the exam, typically ranging from $150 to $700 USD per attempt. The Preliminary exam is the least expensive, while the Final Practical exam is the most costly. Candidates must check the official ABHS website for the most accurate and up-to-date fee schedule. What happens if I fail an exam part? Candidates who fail an exam can usually retake it during the next available exam window. However, there is typically a limit to the number of consecutive attempts allowed. Exhausting these attempts may require the candidate to undergo further structured training before reapplying. How long should I prepare for the Final Cognitive Exam? Most successful candidates recommend dedicating 6 to 12 months of consistent study for the Final Cognitive Exam. Preparation should include reading core texts like Nelson's Pediatrics, alongside extensive MCQ practice and regular review of high-yield topics. Do I need to pass the written exam before taking the clinical exam? Yes. Candidates must successfully pass the Final Cognitive (written) Exam before they are eligible to register for and attempt the Final Practical (clinical) Exam. Where are the exams held? Written exams are usually held at accredited computer-based testing centers in various major cities across Arab Board member countries. The Final Practical exams are hosted at designated regional training hospitals that have the facilities to conduct standardized clinical examinations. Specialty reading hub Related Pediatrics Articles ----------------------------- Reinforce your ABHS preparation with specialty-specific guides, exam strategy articles, and clinical revision insights from the MDster blog. [ Browse all Pediatrics articles ](https://mdster.com/blog?speciality=pediatrics) [ ![Congenital Hypothyroidism: Screening, Levothyroxine, Outcomes](https://mdster.com/storage/blog/images/congenital-hypothyroidism-screening-levothyroxine-outcomes.jpg) Medical Education / 6 min read ### Congenital Hypothyroidism: Screening, Levothyroxine, Outcomes High-yield review of congenital hypothyroidism for Pediatrics trainees, covering newborn screening pitfalls, urgent levothyroxine treatment, and developmental follow-up. Apr 04, 2026 Read article ](https://mdster.com/blog/congenital-hypothyroidism-screening-levothyroxine-outcomes) [ ![How to Pass the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (Pediatrics Applied/Oral Examination)](https://mdster.com/storage/blog/images/how-to-pass-the-royal-college-of-physicians-and-surgeons-of-canada-pediatrics-appliedoral.jpg) Study Tips / 5 min read ### How to Pass the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (Pediatrics Applied/Oral Examination) Practical, exam-specific strategies for the RCPSC Pediatrics Applied/Oral Examination, including case priorities, mock-orals, and a realistic six-week plan. Mar 31, 2026 Read article ](https://mdster.com/blog/how-to-pass-the-royal-college-of-physicians-and-surgeons-of-canada-pediatrics-appliedoral) [ Medical Education / 5 min read ### Antibiotic Stewardship in the NICU: Stop Early, Narrow Fast A practical NICU guide to stopping empiric antibiotics on time, narrowing by culture, and using fluconazole prophylaxis selectively in preterm infants. Mar 28, 2026 Read article ](https://mdster.com/blog/antibiotic-stewardship-in-the-nicu-stop-early-narrow-fast) Ready to Pass the ABHS? ------------------------- Join medical professionals who are preparing for the Arab Board of Health Specializations with MDster [ Get Started Free ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) No credit card required • Cancel anytime [ ](/) Master your medical exams with evidence-based learning. 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