How ABPTS Establishes Examination Passing Standards

ABPTS establishes passing standards for all specialty certification examinations through a formal standard-setting process designed to ensure that certification decisions are fair, valid, and reflective of current specialty practice. 

Each specialty certification program periodically conducts a standard-setting study to evaluate the level of knowledge, skills, and clinical judgment expected of a minimally competent board-certified clinical specialist. Standard-setting studies are conducted in accordance with ABPTS policies and accepted credentialing and psychometric practices. The methodology selected is appropriate for the examination and specialty being evaluated. 

Subject matter experts from the specialty area participate in the process by reviewing examination content and providing professional judgments regarding the performance expected of a minimally competent specialist. Panelists receive training on the process and apply structured evaluation procedures designed to support consistent and informed decision-making. 

The recommendations resulting from the study are reviewed together with relevant examination data and psychometric analyses. Final passing standards are approved through established ABPTS governance processes before implementation. 

Because specialty areas vary in size, scope, and practice characteristics, the specific design of a standard-setting study may differ across certification programs. Regardless of the methodology used, all studies are conducted in accordance with recognized testing and credentialing practices and are intended to support valid, reliable, and legally defensible certification decisions. 

Subject Matter Expert Participation

Standard-setting studies are conducted by panels of qualified subject matter experts from the specialty area being evaluated. Panelists are selected to collectively represent the full scope of contemporary specialty practice, including a range of practice settings, professional roles, geographic regions, and levels of experience. 

Prior to participating, panelists receive training on the standard-setting process and the concept of the minimally competent board-certified clinical specialist. Throughout the study, panel members apply their professional knowledge and judgment to evaluate the level of performance expected of a practitioner who meets the minimum requirements for specialty certification. 

This approach helps ensure that passing standards reflect current specialty practice and the knowledge, skills, and clinical judgment expected of a minimally competent board-certified clinical specialist. 

Review of Results

Psychometric professionals support the design, analysis, and evaluation of standard-setting studies to help ensure adherence to accepted testing and credentialing practices. Following completion of the study, panel recommendations are analyzed and reviewed together with relevant psychometric information.  The results are evaluated through established certification governance processes to ensure that the recommended passing standard is supported by both professional judgment and examination data. 

Approval of Passing Standards

Final passing standards are approved by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) in accordance with established policies and governance procedures. Once approved, the passing standard is implemented for the applicable specialty certification examination. 

Commitment to Quality

ABPTS is committed to maintaining certification examinations that are valid, reliable, legally defensible, and reflective of current specialty practice. Periodic standard-setting studies help ensure that examination standards continue to support the protection of the public and the recognition of advanced specialty competence in physical therapy. 

Most Recent Standard-Setting Studies by Specialty