The AOBFP Early Entry Initial Certification (EEIC) examination allows physicians to seek specialty board certification in Family Medicine or Family Medicine and OMT while still completing residency.
The early entry option offers the convenience of taking a shortened certification exam earlier in residency, at a lower cost than the traditional exam.
Learn more about the Initial Certification Grant Opportunity for residents.
Early Entry Initial Certification Written (Cognitive) Exam
1. Register for the Early Entry Initial Certification Written (Cognitive) Exam, provided you meet one of the following eligibility requirements:
- You are a DO/MD in a Family Medicine residency.
- You must be in your final year of residency at the time of the examination.
The following criteria must also be met:
- You have completed two osteopathic in-service exams produced and administered by ACOFP.
The next Early Entry Initial Certification Written Exam will be offered Jan. 16-19, 2024, via remote proctored platform. Candidates will be able to take their exam in their home with the security of a remote proctor.
Early Entry Initial Certification OMT Performance Exam
2. If you wish to become board-certified in Family Medicine and OMT, you must complete the Early Entry Initial Certification OMT Performance Exam. The exam will be in spring at the annual ACOFP conference.
NOTE: Residents completing programs on or after June 30, 2020 may opt out of the OMT Performance Exam and become board-certified in Family Medicine only. If you select this option, you may complete the OMT Performance Exam at any point in your career to become certified in Family Medicine and OMT.
Become Board Certified
3. Upon successful completion of all exam components, the AOBFP will recommend osteopathic board certification to the AOA.
4. You will receive a letter from the AOA via email once certification has been approved.
5. You are now board certified. You will receive your certificate in the mail within 10-12 weeks upon notification of approval, as well as a certified electronic certificate.
6. Your primary certification in Family Medicine or Family Medicine and OMT will remain active provided you successfully complete Osteopathic Continuous Certification requirements.
Osteopathic Continuous Certification
7. Maintain active licensure.
8. Participate in lifelong learning and continuing medical education.
9. Complete the cognitive assessment.
10. Complete the practice performance assessment.