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Transform your career as a physical therapist by becoming a board-certified clinical specialist. Join over 40,000 of your esteemed peers who showcase proficiency in specialized knowledge and advanced clinical expertise. With 10 specialized paths to choose from, you can define your expertise, increase your earning potential, and propel your professional journey to new heights.
Why Become a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist?
Discover the benefits of joining this prestigious group:
- Elevated competency: Exceed the standards of entry-level practice by honing your expertise in a specific area.
- Career advancement: Open doors to higher income opportunities and career growth.
- Professional recognition: Gain recognition among your peers and patients for your commitment to excellence.
- Lead the profession: ABPTS specialists are often at the forefront of developments in research and practice, shaping the future of physical therapy.
Ready to stand out? Continue the journey to unlock the boundless potential within you.
Become an ABPTS-Certified Specialist
Income-Boosting Power of Specialization: Insights From the Field
Recent studies from APTA highlight the financial benefits of specialization. Board-certified PTs can earn higher incomes and experience accelerated career growth.
Don't just take our word for it, delve into the insights. Read the report.
"Becoming board certified has always been a goal of mine. It feels great to show my commitment to my patients, my profession, and to be part of an ever-growing specialty. Preparing for the specialty exam has provided me with the opportunity to network with others who have the same passion that I do, and I’m forever thankful."
Prepare for Success
Earning specialist certification is all about pursuing the facets of physical therapy that you love most. Although it requires time and dedication, the personal and professional rewards make it a worthwhile pursuit. Dive into the fundamentals of the process and equip yourself with essential knowledge before taking the first step.
Certification Process
Gain a comprehensive understanding of each stage, from the initial application to the pivotal examination. Specialist certification helps patients and referral sources know that you offer a deep understanding of specific areas of care, and that you're committed to professional growth. Get recognized for your commitment as you navigate through the certification process.
Dates and Deadlines
Stay ahead of the curve by marking these essential dates and deadlines on your calendar. Keep track of key milestones for your specialty, ensuring you're well-prepared for every stage of the certification process. Help lead the profession and be part of a community that believes in continuous improvement of patient care.
Cardiovascular & Pulmonary, Clinical Electrophysiology, Oncology, Women's Health, and Wound Management
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May 12
Initial Certification Application Window Opens -
June 30
MOSC Submission Deadline -
July 1
Initial Certification Early Bird Application Submission Deadline -
Aug. 31
Reapplication DeadlineFor candidates who did not sit or pass on first attempt.
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Sep. 30
Initial Certification Final Application Deadline(Additional $100 fee for submissions received after July 1).
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Nov. 30
Initial Certification Exam Fee Deadline -
Mid-Dec.
Exam Scheduling Information IssuedAn email will be sent with information on how to schedule the date and location to sit for your exam.
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Feb./March
2026 Exam DatesFebruary 25 - March 18, 2026.
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By June 30
Exam Results ReleasedNotification of exam results will sent by email (from spec-cert@apta.org) and shortly after to the online portal.
Geriatrics, Neurology, Orthopaedics, Pediatrics, and Sports
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May 12
Initial Certification Application Window Opens -
June 30
MOSC Submission Deadline -
July 31
Initial Certification Early Bird Application Submission Deadline -
Aug. 31
Reapplication DeadlineFor candidates who did not sit or pass on first exam attempt.
-
Sep. 30
Initial Certification Final Application Deadline(Additional $100 fee for submissions received after July 31).
-
Nov. 30
Initial Certification Exam Fee Deadline -
Mid-Dec.
Exam Scheduling Information IssuedAn email will be sent with information on how to schedule the date and location to sit for your exam.
-
Feb./March
2026 Exam Test DatesFebruary 25 - March 18, 2026.
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By June 30
Exam Results ReleasedNotification of exam results will sent by email (from spec-cert@apta.org) and shortly after to the online portal.