The ASCP Histotechnician (HT) Board Certification is administered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology to evaluate your professional knowledge. The certification exam evaluates your understanding across a total of 100 questions within a 150-minute time frame using computer adaptive testing methods to measure your competence and readiness for clinical practice.
This certification is intended for histotechnicians seeking formal credentialing. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate theoretical and procedural knowledge in tissue preparation, staining methods, and laboratory safety.
Review all designated content areas including fixation parameters, automated processing instruments, and staining reagents to build a strong foundation. Practice answering both theoretical and procedural questions under simulated testing conditions. Understand the underlying principles of tissue preparation, quality assurance protocols, and safety practices to prepare for the 100-question examination.
This domain focuses on tissue morphology, various fixation procedures, parameters like size and volume, appropriate chemical reagents, and related laboratory instrumentation such as microwaves used in diagnostic settings.
This domain covers tissue preservation techniques, processing procedures designed for light microscopy and delicate frozen sections, automated laboratory instrumentation, and chemical reagents required for sample dehydration and clearing.
This domain addresses paraffin embedding and frozen section procedures, gelatin or adhesive mounting methods, routine quality control measures, and the mechanical operation of microtomy instrumentation used in producing tissue sections.
This domain encompasses extensive staining techniques for cell nuclei, cytoplasm, various carbohydrates, and microorganisms, alongside coverslipping procedures, biological dyes, and optical instrumentation utilized by histotechnicians during daily practice.
This domain includes safety regulations, laboratory mathematics such as calculating percent solutions and serial dilutions, and the proper operational guidelines for utilizing ancillary laboratory equipment safely and efficiently.
Arrive prepared for the computer adaptive testing format. Manage your time across the 100 questions within the 150-minute limit to ensure every question is answered.
The official certification examination is composed of exactly 100 questions that are delivered continuously via computer adaptive testing platforms to carefully evaluate your professional clinical competence.
To successfully achieve this professional credential, candidates must attain the established passing score requirement of 400/999 on their official examination report provided by the testing administration board.
Candidates are given a total time allowance of a 150-minute time frame to read, analyze, and complete all 100 questions presented during the official board certification testing session.
The board certification examination extensively covers five distinct content areas including fixation, processing, embedding, microtomy, staining, and laboratory operations to ensure a thorough technical skills evaluation.
Verified 2026-09-13
This comprehensive guide page was carefully built using official ASCP content guidelines and certification exam documentation to reflect all current requirements accurately.