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Component 3: Cognitive Assessment
Component 3 of Osteopathic Continuous Certification requires provision of one or more psychometrically valid and proctored examinations that assess a physician’s specialty medical knowledge, as well as core competencies in the provision of health care.
Longitudinal Assessment
In January 2022, the board transitioned to a Longitudinal Assessment model that replaced the high stakes written examination previously required for OCC Component 3. The new approach was designed to afford board-certified physicians with greater flexibility, accessibility and convenience, while facilitating ongoing high-quality assessment and continuous learning.
Under AOBS, Diplomates are required to complete the 15-question assessment, updated annually with new questions, reading references and rationales. Registration for the 2026 assessment opened on Nov. 17, 2025, and Diplomates will be provided with access beginning on Jan. 26, 2026.
The AOBS Longitudinal Assessment consists of questions developed by the AOBS and the Division of Examiners, including Subject Matter Experts. Starting in 2026, the assessment is delivered to Diplomates on the AOA Learning Management System (LMS) with 24/7 access.
AOBS remains committed to supporting our Diplomates desire for life-long learning. Please check this website frequently as we continue to provide additional information to best answer your questions.
Longitudinal Assessment References
The following references are provided as a preparation tool for the 2026 Longitudinal Assessment. For those in remediation, the previous year(s) references are also available.
Exam Policies
Compliance With Federal Regulations
The AOBS complies with all applicable federal and state regulations, including:
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): The AOBS complies with requirements prohibiting discrimination and ensuring equal opportunity for persons with disabilities in employment, state and local government services, public accommodations, commercial facilities, and transportation, as well as regulations for Title II and Title III (and all subsequent regulations) as printed in the federal register.
- Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA): In compliance with the HIPAA Act of 1996 and any subsequent modifications, the AOBS ensures that individuals’ health information is properly protected, while allowing the flow of health information to provide and promote high quality health care. All medical records submitted for review by candidates for AOBS certification will be de-identified by the candidate prior to submission, such that the remaining information cannot be used to identify an individual patient.