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Qualifying Examination

The Qualifying Examination (QE) is one section of the two-part certification process for Diplomate status in the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. The examination is designed to generate evidence toward validation of the individuals advanced training in pediatric dentistry. The QE must be successfully completed prior to registering for the Oral Clinical Examination.

Please refer to the QE Overview below for details on how to prepare for the examination in sections V - IX.  There is no reading list associated with the Qualifying Examination. 

Application Process:
  • PREVIOUSLY REGISTERED - you already have a personal ID number and password with ABPD and if you have forgotten you will need to click on "Forgot Password" and the system will automatically send you the information to the email in your records. To log into your profile click here
  • FIRST TIME REGISTERING FOR EXAMINATION - to complete your profile and application for the QE click here
  • APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED:  July 1 through December 15 annually
Click here for:
Qualifying Examination Overview
QE Sample Questions

QE References
2013 Registration Information
Article: How to Prepare for the QE

Cancellation Policy for May 7, 2013 examination:
(All cancellations must be submitted in writing via email or by US Mail.)

  • Cancellation prior to December 15, 2012 = $75 processing fee.
  • Cancellation December 16, 2012 through January 4, 2013 = $100 processing fee.
  • Cancellation after January 5, 2013 = forfeiture of the entire registration fee. (NOTE:  The cancellation policy noted here is used regardless of the PearsonVue Testing Center’s cancellation policy.)
  • Failure to appear for the scheduled testing appointment = forfeiture of the registration fee.
  • Failure to apply for Board Candidacy before January 15, 2014 = forfeiture of scores.
  • The cancellation policy noted here is used regardless of the PearsonVue Testing Center cancellation policy.

NOTE: Application for Board Candidacy deadline is January 15, 2014; if not
received in Headquarters by deadline score is forfeited.


Re-examination Policy: Qualifying Examination 
The Candidate who is unsuccessful with the QE can retake the examination annually within years 1-4 of their eligibility period. The Qualifying Examination must be successful completed prior to sitting for the Oral Clinical Examination (OCE).  A Candidate cannot sit for the QE and the OCE during the same year.

2014 Qualifying Examination scheduled for May 7.
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