Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification® H A N D B O O K

Pediatric Audiology

Specialty Certification

H A N D B O OK

American Board of Audiology

11480 Commerce Park Drive, Suite 220

Reston, VA 20191

Phone: +1.800.881.5410

Fax: +1.703.485.3555

E-mail: aba@audiology.org

February 2024

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Specialty, Expertise, Knowledge.

Share Yours with the World by Earning

an ABA Specialty Certification

ABA Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification (PASC) is a respected mark of distinction to

patients, parents, peers, and other health-care professionals that the certificant possess the

education and qualifications to improve the quality of life of pediatric patients with hearing loss.

To learn more,

visit www.boardofaudiology.org.

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Table of Contents

Appeals Policy

No Appeal Permitted ……………………………….. 16

Appealable Issue ……………………………………… 16

Appeal Procedure ……………………………………. 16

Certification Pending Appeal …………………… 16

Review of Appeal …………………………………….. 16

Communication ……………………………………….. 17

Recertification–Maintenance

Recertification Requirements …………………… 18

Inactive Status ………………………………………….. 18

The Examination

Exam Format ……………………….…………….…….. 19

Exam Content …………………………………………... 19

Sample Exam Questions …………….……………... 21

Suggested Readings ………………………….………. 22

Appendix: Application Forms

Form 1: Patient & Case Management Hours 23

Form 2: Professional Reference #1 …………… 24

Form 2: Professional Reference #2 …………… 25

Form 3: Non-Disclosure Agreement …………. 26

Form 4: Demographic Information …………… 27

Form 5a: Request for Test Accommodations 28

Form 5b: Documentation of Disability-Related

Needs …………………………………………………….. 29

Welcome to the Pediatric Audiology

Specialty Certification®

PASC: Professional Designation ……………………….. 4

American Board of Audiology®

Mission ……………………………………………………………. 5

Vision ………………………………………………………………. 5

Practice ……………………………………………………………. 5

Code of Ethics ………………………………………………….. 5

Eligibility Requirements

Categories ……………………………………………………….. 6

Application Policies

Incomplete Application …………………………….……… 7

Applicant Contact Information …………….………….. 7

Review and Acknowledgement of Application .... 7

Denial of Eligibility …………………………………….…….. 7

Test Accommodation Policies

Applying for Test Accommodations …………………. 8

Common Test Accommodations ………………..……. 9

Supporting Documentation Requirements …….… 9

Review of Requests for Test Accommodations. 10

Examination Policies

Exam Dates and Location ……………….……………… 11

Exam Delivery ……………………………………………….. 11

Translations …………………………………………………… 11

Failure to Report for a Scheduled Exam

Appointment ……………………………………………….. 11

Emergency …………………………………………………….. 11

Exam Eligibility Period ………………………………….… 11

Scheduling Your Exam ……………………………………. 11

Preparation for Your Live Remote Proctored

Exam ……………………………………………….…………… 12

Internet Speed ………………………………………………. 12

Identification Requirements ………………………….. 12

On Exam Day …………………………………………………. 13

Exam Time Limit ……………………………………………. 13

Exam Security ……………………………………………….. 13

Non-Disclosure Agreement ……………………………. 14

Exam Results …………………………………………………. 14

Pass/Fail Score Determination ………………………. 14

Exam Retakes ……………………………….……………….. 15

Score Cancellation …………………………………………. 15

Suspension/Revocation of ABA Certification …. 15

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Welcome to the Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification®

Congratulations on pursuing Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification® (PASC). The PASC credential was

created for audiologists looking for advanced professional development and practical ways to pursue

professional growth.

The American Board of Audiology (ABA) is pleased to welcome you to the professional certification

process. The PASC credential recognizes those professionals who demonstrate the knowledge and

commitment to the highest standards of ethical and professional practice in serving the pediatric

audiology sector, birth through 18 years of age.

PASC: Professional Designation

Audiologists who meet the eligibility requirements and achieve a passing score on the Pediatric Audiology

Specialty Certification (PASC) examination will be awarded the designation Pediatric Audiology Specialty

Certification and are entitled to use that designation, or the PASC mark, with their name on letterhead,

business cards, and all forms of address.

To be PASC certified, audiologists must be (i) American Board of Audiology Certified, (ii) meet the PASC

eligibility requirements, and (iii) achieve a passing score on the PASC examination. Upon successful

completion of the requirements, audiologists will be awarded the designation of American Board of

Audiology Certified, with Specialty Certification in Pediatric Audiology.

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

American Board of Audiology®

Mission

The ABA creates, administers, and promotes rigorous credentialing programs that elevate professional

practice and advance patient care.

Vision

ABA credentials are earned by all leading audiologists, respected by other health-care providers, and

trusted by patients.

Practice

The ABA does not determine who shall or shall not engage in the practice of audiology. That a person is

not certified does not indicate that he or she is unqualified to perform audiology responsibilities, only that

such person has not fulfilled the ABA requirements or has not applied for certification. Additionally, one

need not be a member of any particular professional organization to obtain an ABA certification.

Code of Ethics

The ABA Code of Ethics specifies professional standards that provide for the proper discharge of

audiologists’ responsibilities to those served and protects the integrity of the profession. Certificants who

hold the PASC credential must agree to abide by the principles and rules delineated in this code.

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Eligibility Requirements

To earn the Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification, each applicant must:

1. Submit a written application that meets the requirements in each of four eligibility categories

below (A-D):

2. Agree to uphold the ABA Code of Ethics;

3. Pay all appropriate fees; and

4. Obtain a passing score on the PASC examination.

Candidates must meet the first three requirements to sit for the examination.

Category A: Education

• An applicant must hold a graduate degree in audiology granted from a regionally accredited

institution.

Documentation:

An official transcript from the educational institution, either mailed in a sealed envelope directly

to the ABA or through electronic access granted to the ABA at [email protected]

Category B: Licensure

• An applicant must hold a current, valid license in audiology.

Documentation:

A copy of your current, valid license to practice audiology.

Category C: Professional Experience

• An applicant must have two years of post-degree, full-time (2,000) hours paid professional

experience as an audiologist. Externship hours are ineligible.

• In addition, an applicant must establish the following:

a) Five hundred and fifty (550) direct pediatric post-graduate patient contact hours within a

two-year period during the past five years. Direct patient contact may include screening and

diagnostic evaluation, counseling (patient and family), and habilitation/rehabilitation.

b) Fifty (50) post-graduate hours of case management of pediatric cases within a two-year

period during the past five years. Case management may include involvement in team

meetings, school visits, and interfacing with other agencies involved in pediatric patient care.

Documentation:

Form 1: Patient and Case Management Hours

Category D: Professional References

• An applicant must provide two professional references, one of which must be from a supervisor

familiar with your work in the area of pediatric audiology verifying the number of hours worked

and eligibility for the specialty credential.

Documentation:

Form 2: Professional Reference #1

Form 2: Professional Reference #2

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Application Policies

The ABA conducts a preliminary review of each candidate’s application and required documentation. The

ABA then intently reviews each completed application to determine each applicant’s eligibility for the

PASC examination.

In the event that the applicant’s application, required documentation, or both, are deemed not to meet

the requirements, the applicant will be notified. Should an applicant disagree with the decision of the ABA

regarding eligibility to sit for the PASC exam, the applicant may appeal to the ABA Appeals Committee

with respect to the decision. See Appeals Policy on page 16.

Incomplete Application

The online application requires completion of an online application form, with an upload of a current

state license and fee payment. The applicant then downloads the required forms (see Appendix for

examples), completes the forms, and then uploads them for ABA review. The application is not complete

until all required forms have been uploaded and the transcript has been received by the ABA.

An incomplete application will cause a delay in processing that may possibly preclude you from sitting for

the PASC exam in the next testing window. Incomplete applications will be closed after one year.

Applicant Contact Information

All communication between the applicant and the ABA will be by e-mail and it is the responsibility of the

applicant to maintain a current e-mail contact with the ABA. Neither the ABA nor the test administrator is

responsible for misdirected communication.

Review and Acknowledgement of Application

All application packets will be thoroughly reviewed to ensure your eligibility to take the PASC exam. It is

your responsibility to make sure the packet is complete. Candidates will be notified through e-mail that

their application is received.

Denial of Eligibility

Eligibility for PASC may be denied when:

a. Any part of the application is incomplete or illegible

b. Documented information does not meet the necessary requirements

c. Application does not contain correct fees

When an application is denied for eligibility reasons, the candidate will be notified in writing. The

candidate will have every opportunity to correct and submit whatever documentation is necessary to

properly complete the application process and meet the minimum eligibility requirements. An approved

application is valid for five years.

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Test Accommodation Policies

The ABA complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and is committed to providing necessary

testing accommodations for examinees with documented disabilities, consistent with the requirements of

the law.

Accommodations may also be approved for examinees with documented qualifying medical conditions

that may be temporary or are not otherwise covered by the ADA, such as pregnancy or a temporary

impairment following surgery, including conditions that require the use of medical devices or medication

during the examination.

The ABA will also provide testing accommodations for candidates testing in other jurisdictions, to the

extent required by applicable laws in those jurisdictions.

An individual is not considered to have a disability requiring accommodation if the limitations arising from

the individual’s impairment do not significantly restrict the individual’s major life activities when

compared with the abilities of the average person. Non-specific diagnoses such as individual learning

styles, learning differences, academic problems, computer phobias, slow reading, and test difficulty or

anxiety in and of themselves do not constitute a disability or impairment.

The decision as to whether a medical condition that is not covered by the ADA is a “qualifying medical

condition” for purposes of a PASC exam accommodation is at the sole discretion of the ABA.

Accommodations are provided on an individual basis and depend on the nature of the disability or

medical condition and documentation provided. The ABA will make reasonable efforts to provide the

requested accommodations to examinees provided the functional impairment has been demonstrated

through adequate documentation, and the accommodations do not fundamentally alter the

measurement of the skills or knowledge the examination is intended to test, do not jeopardize

examination integrity and security, are compatible with the nature and purpose of the examination or

assessment program, and do not result in an undue burden to the ABA. Accommodations cannot be made

to the actual content of the examination. A range of available accommodations are considered to assist

examinees with disabilities or qualifying medical conditions.

Applying for Test Accommodations

PASC exam applicants may request test accommodations for the examination by completing Forms 5a and

5b and submitting them with any required supporting documentation either:

1. As part of the initial application, or

2. At least 30 days prior to exam registration.

Test accommodations requested after an exam has been scheduled are NOT guaranteed. Examinees

cannot schedule their PASC examination, nor can the examination be administered until

the process described above has been completed. The ABA requires at least 30 days to review fully

documented requests for test accommodation.

All requests for examination accommodations are strictly confidential, and documentation submitted in

support of the request is used solely for the purpose of evaluating the request. Failure to provide the ABA

with adequate supporting documentation in a timely manner will cause a delay in the review process

and the applicant’s ability to schedule and take the examination.

An examinee may request more than one accommodation; however, supporting documentation is

required for each requested accommodation.

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Test Accommodation Policies

Common Test Accommodations

The ABA will base the accommodations on the requests and required documentation received. Common

accommodations include extended time for testing (1.5 time or double time), frequent or additional

breaks, access to auxiliary items (food, medication, or medical devices), or provision of a reader and/or

scribe. Candidates will not be charged any additional fees for approved accommodations.

Supporting Documentation Requirements

Adequate supporting documentation from a qualified medical professional certifying to the applicant’s

disability or qualifying medical condition, with specific identification of the requested accommodation

and the medical basis for the request, must be submitted to the ABA, either directly from the medical

professional or by the applicant. The ABA will verify the authenticity of any submissions sent by the

applicant. A qualified professional is someone with the credentials, training, and expertise to diagnose the

reported disability or qualifying medical condition. The primary relationship of the attesting professional

to the individual must be that of a treating medical professional to a patient; there must be no familial,

intimate, supervisory or other close relationship between the qualified professional and the individual

requesting the accommodation(s).

The documentation must:

1. Be on letterhead, typed in English, dated and signed, and include the name, title, and

professional credentials of the qualified medical professional.

2. Contain contact information including address, telephone number, and e-mail address of each

professional providing documentation.

3. Include the date of assessment upon which each professional's report is based.

4. Include a detailed description of the medical, psychological, educational, and/or cognitive

functioning tests that were conducted, the results of those tests and a comprehensive

interpretation of the results.

5. The name of the specific disability or medical condition and a description of the specific impact

on daily life activities and day-to-day functional limitations to major life activities, including a

history of the impact of the disability on academic functioning if the condition is a learning

disability or attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADD or ADHD).

6. The specific examination accommodations that are recommended and how each will

compensate for those limitations and reduce the impact of identified limitations.

The ABA reserves the right to request further verification, if necessary, of the evaluating professional’s

credentials and expertise relevant to the diagnosis, to verify the authenticity of the supporting

documentation, and to seek clarification of the information provided by the evaluating professional. In

addition to the referenced required supporting documentation above, if the applicant has received prior

examination accommodations in an educational setting or for other standardized examinations,

documentation of these should be submitted to the ABA.

Review of Requests for Test Accommodations

The ABA will consider requests for examination accommodations following receipt of an examination

application and all required documentation in support of the request. While documentation of prior

approved accommodation(s) in an educational or academic institution or other testing organizations will

be considered, an applicant’s prior receipt of academic or testing accommodations does not in and of

itself guarantee approval of the requested accommodation(s). The applicant will be sent a notification of

the ABA’s decision regarding the requested accommodation(s).

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Test Accommodation Policies

If accommodations have been approved, the notification will be in the form of a Testing Accommodations

Agreement indicating the accommodation(s) that has/have been approved. The applicant must sign the

agreement and return it to the ABA by the date indicated within the agreement. The application for an

applicant requesting examination accommodations will not be complete until the signed agreement is

received by the ABA.

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Examination Policies

The ABA Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification (PASC) examination is designed to test a

comprehensive body of knowledge representative of professional practice in pediatric audiology.

Successful completion of the certification exam verifies broad-based knowledge in the discipline being

tested.

No examination or certification program can guarantee results or the quality of care provided by

certificants. The certification examination tests only the individual’s familiarity with the subject matter at

the time of the administration of the examination.

The content of the PASC exam is defined by a national Practice Analysis study. The study involved

surveying hundreds of pediatric audiology practitioners to identify tasks that are performed routinely and

considered important to competent practice. The examination has been developed through a combined

effort of qualified subject-matter experts (SMEs) and testing professionals who construct the examination

in accordance with the PASC test blueprint derived from the Practice Analysis.

Exam Dates and Deadlines

Please see the ABA website for upcoming dates and deadlines.

Exam Delivery

The PASC exam is delivered online with live remote proctoring using the ABA’s test delivery partner,

Prolydian. Each exam candidate will schedule their own testing time through the remote proctoring

platform within the testing window determined by the ABA.

Translations

The PASC exam is currently offered only in English. No translation into foreign languages is offered at this

time.

Failure to Report for a Scheduled Exam Appointment

If a candidate fails to appear for his or her testing appointment on the date and time scheduled, and does

not cancel or reschedule the testing appointment at least 24 hours in advance of the testing appointment

AND does not notify the ABA in writing of the emergency event (postmarked within 10 business days of

the event), ALL exam registration fees are forfeited.

Emergency

In the event of unforeseen emergencies on the day of an exam, the ABA will determine whether

circumstances warrant the cancellation, and subsequent rescheduling, of an exam.

Exam Eligibility Period

When your application is approved, you are eligible to test for five years beginning on the first day of the

next testing window. If you do not pass the exam within five years, your eligibility to test will be closed

and a new application, documentation, and appropriate fees must be resubmitted.

Scheduling Your Exam

Within ten days of your exam registration, you will receive an account activation email from Prolydian

(support@prolydian.com

) with a link to activate your Prolydian account. You will also receive a

confirmation email from Prolydian with instructions on how to schedule your exam. Once you’ve

scheduled your exam, Prolydian will send a confirmation e-mail with the link to the testing platform that

you will use to take your exam at the time you scheduled. It will also include technical requirements that

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Examination Policies

must be met in order for you to test remotely. DO NOT DELETE THIS CONFIRMATION E-MAIL UNTIL AFTER

YOU HAVE COMPLETED YOUR EXAM.

Preparation for Your Live Remote Proctored Exam

Be sure that the computer and the location where you intend to take the examination meet the

requirements specified in your confirmation e-mail BEFORE examination day. If they do not meet the

requirements, you will not be able to complete the test and you will not receive a refund.

Technical Requirements

• Browser: Updated version of Safari, Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, or Mozilla Firefox with

popup blocker disabled.

• A working built-in or external webcam and microphone

• Desktop computer or laptop (tablets, Chromebook and cell phones do not meet the proctoring

requirements)

• Internet speed must be at least 2 Mbps download and 2 Mbps upload. Hot spots are not

recommended

Testing Environment Requirements

• A suitable environment is a room that is enclosed - e.g., an office, a bedroom, or any other room

with four walls that contains a door or other barrier to prevent entry. Windows are allowed,

however, they need to be closed and covered. A candidate can close blinds, and shades, or cover

the window with a sheet, towel, or other material.

• The room must be free of clutter and contain no accessible devices, books, notes, or other

materials that could potentially allow a candidate to cheat.

• The desk or workspace the individual uses must be free of any devices, books, notes, or other

materials that could potentially allow a candidate to cheat.

• Your laptop/computer must be connected to a power source for the duration of the exam.

• You are only allowed to have one (1) monitor running during the exam. Any secondary monitors

must be unplugged and facing away from you.

• You will be required to use a mirror or reflective surface to show the proctor your monitor. This

can include a phone with a front facing camera. (Please note: You will not be permitted to

access your cell phone or any other mobile device/tablet after this process has been

completed.)

Internet Speed

PRIOR TO THE EXAM: Please run an internet speed test at speedtest.net while connected with the proctor

prior to starting the exam. We recommend that candidates have at least a 5MBPS upload and download

speed. If the internet upload OR download speed is below 2MBPS, the exam will not proceed and the

student will need to reschedule a new exam and pay the retake fee. If the internet upload OR download

speeds are between 2MBPS and 5MBPS, students may take the exam at their own risk. However, if the

internet connection is lost during the exam and the proctor cannot see the student, the exam will stop,

and the student will need to reschedule a new exam and pay the retake fee.

Identification Requirements

Candidates must provide one form of identification, which must match your name as it appears in your

exam registration. The ID must be a current legal identification bearing your photograph and signature.

You will need to show both sides of your ID to the remote proctor to gain access to the exam. Candidates

will not be permitted to test without proper identification and all fees will be forfeited.

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Examination Policies

Legal identification includes the following:

• Driver’s license, government identity card, passport, or military identification

• Credit cards, employment badges, student ID cards or club membership cards are NOT

acceptable for legal identification

On Exam Day

At the scheduled examination time, candidates will be prompted to complete a series of computer system

checks, download a required application, and then be connected to a proctor.

The proctor will:

• Confirm candidate identification (see Identification Requirements above)

• Direct the candidate to pan the examination room

• Release the exam for the candidate to start testing

Exam Time Limit

A maximum of two and a half (2.5) hours is allocated for candidates to take the exam. The exam will be

given only during the time on the date that you scheduled as indicated in your test appointment

confirmation e-mail.

Exam Security

To provide a fair and consistent environment for all candidates, exams are delivered using standardized

procedures following strict security protocols. Candidates are required to follow all testing rules at all

times. Failure to follow these rules may result in termination of a candidate’s testing session, invalidation

of the candidate’s exam score and/or disciplinary action.

These rules will be enforced by the remote proctor on exam day:

• Webcam, speakers, and microphone must remain on throughout the exam

• You are permitted a beverage in a clear, spill-proof container. No food is permitted unless a

request for test accommodations has been approved.

• No calculators will be allowed.

• No watches, cell phones, pagers, headphones, or other electronic devices are allowed. A

countdown clock is visible on your screen during your exam.

• No dual monitors are allowed.

• No resources, notes, books, or references of any type are allowed.

• Exam room lighting should be adequate for the proctor to view the candidate and surrounding

area.

• You must remain in view of the proctor at all times during the exam.

• You must remain in your seat for the duration of the exam and no breaks are allowed.

• No talking during the exam, unless you need to ask questions to the proctor

• Reading out loud or any attempts to capture exam content (e.g., taking photos, copying

questions, etc.) are prohibited.

• Attempts to remotely control the computer, resize browsers, or print the screen are prohibited.

No other individuals are permitted in the testing location with the candidate.

• Be sure to answer each question on the exam, even the ones for which you are uncertain. Avoid

leaving any questions unanswered. There is no penalty for guessing.

• You will be asked to complete a Candidate Comment Form at the conclusion of the test, where

you may comment on any question on the exam. Comments will be reviewed, but individual

responses to questions and comments cannot be provided.

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Examination Policies

The only materials candidates should have within reach as they check in are their (i) ID and (ii) phone or

mirror (to show their monitor). These will be placed out of reach once the check-in process is over. A

beverage as described above may be kept on the desk.

Candidates will be observed at all times while they are taking the PASC examination. This observation will

include direct observation by proctors or camera monitors. Proctors may not necessarily inform you of

their observations, but they are required to report behavior that may violate the terms and regulations of

the ABA or other forms of irregular behavior.

Any cheating and/or breach of confidentiality/security or any attempt to subvert the examination process

by any candidate violates the purpose and principles of the examination. Any candidate, who carries out,

takes part in, or who witnesses such behavior must report it to the proctor and/or the ABA as soon as

possible.

A candidate agrees to abide by all regulations, as well as oral and written instructions controlling the

conduct of the examination. These regulations are intended to preserve the integrity of the examination

process by providing standard test administration conditions that yield valid and reliable results.

Non-Disclosure Agreement

Examinees that violate security will not have their exams processed. On exam day, examinees will receive

an electronic copy of the Non-Disclosure Agreement (Form 3 of the PASC application). Candidates will not

be able to begin the examination without reading and agreeing to this statement:

As a candidate for the Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification Exam,

• I understand that the Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification (PASC) exam is a confidential and

secure exam.

• I will not discuss the content of the exam with anyone during or after the administration.

• The exam is confidential. It is made available to me, the examinee, solely for the purpose of

becoming certified in pediatric audiology.

• I am expressly prohibited from disclosing, publishing, reproducing, or transmitting the exam, in

whole or in part, in any form or by any means, verbal or written, electronic or mechanical, for

any purpose.

• I understand that if I provide false information or if I violate any of the PASC exam rules or

procedures, the test administrator may immediately dismiss me from the test session.

• I understand a breach of this agreement could result in disciplinary action.

Exam Results

Exam candidates will receive their exam score by e-mail within approximately six weeks following the

exam administration. When you receive your score report, it will reflect either “pass” or “fail.” It will also

include the functional areas covered by the exam, relative weights (i.e., the number of questions on the

test related to each area), and bar graphs indicating your relative performance in each area. This

information is provided as feedback to help you understand your performance within the major content

categories. Your pass/fail status is determined by your overall raw score on the 100 scored items. To

assure confidentiality, no exam results will be given by telephone or fax.

Pass/Fail Score Determination

The methodology used to set the minimum passing score is the modified Angoff method, applied during

the performance of a Standard Setting Study by a panel of subject matter experts. The experts evaluate

each question on the exam to determine how many correct answers are required to pass the PASC exam.

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Examination Policies

Your ability to pass the exam depends on the knowledge you display, not on the performance of other

candidates.

Exam difficulty may vary slightly from exam to exam. To assure fairness, slight variations in difficulty level

are addressed by adjusting the passing score up or down for each exam administration.

Exam Retakes

Candidates who do not pass the exam, may register for a subsequent exam administration within their

five-year eligibility period.

Score Cancellation

The ABA and test administrator reserve the right to cancel or withhold any exam scores if, in their

opinion, there is adequate reason to question their validity. See Exam Security on page 13.

Suspension/Revocation of ABA Certification

1. Once approved for ABA Certification, one’s certification is subject to suspension or revocation by

the ABA for any of the following reasons:

• Violation of the ABA Code of Ethics

• Revocation or suspension of a state license or registration held by an audiologist who is

certified by the ABA

• Breach of exam confidentiality

• Any act or omission deemed prejudicial to the profession of audiology.

2. No certification shall be revoked unless the following procedures are followed:

• A copy of the charges against the certificant and the information concerning the event or

events from which such charges arise is sent by registered mail to the individual.

• Such a notice shall state that no action will be taken against the certificant until after a

hearing, unless certificant fails to request a hearing or offer a defense within 45 days.

• The certificant is given at least 45 days to prepare a defense.

• A hearing is held on such charges before a designated panel, at which time the person is

given a full opportunity to be heard in his or her own defense, including the right to be

represented by counsel, the right to cross-examine witnesses appearing and to examine

documents material to said charges. Accommodation support will be provided to eligible

individuals.

• The panel shall initially determine whether or not certification should be suspended or

revoked. The initial determination of the panel, including all evidence submitted at the

hearing, shall be reviewed by the ABA. Upon review, the ABA may affirm, reverse, modify

or remand the original determination of the panel.

• Written notice of such decision shall be issued in writing to the certificant.

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Appeals Policy

Should an applicant disagree with a decision of the Eligibility, Reinstatement, and Recertification Review

(ERR) Committee, the applicant may appeal to the ABA Appeals Committee.

No Appeal Permitted

Individuals cannot appeal the following:

• The passing score or actions taken in setting a passing score

• Actions taken against an individual’s certification status as a result of a lack of valid audiology

license

• Establishment of eligibility criteria

• The examination or other measurement tool or individual test items

• Test content validity

Appealable Issue

An adverse certification decision may be appealed on the grounds that the ABA did not properly apply

specified certification eligibility criteria or the decision was based on a factual error that affected the

outcome. Adverse certification decisions include the following:

• Denial of eligibility for initial certification

• Denial of certification

• Suspension of certification

• Revocation of certification

Appeal Procedure

An individual wishing to appeal an adverse decision, must submit a Notice of Appeal to the ABA, within 21

calendar days of receipt of the adverse decision. The Notice of Appeal must include the following:

a. The grounds for appeal;

b. The envelope from the ABA showing the postmark of the adverse decision;

c. Any new or additional information to be considered; and

d. Mailing address and e-mail address where Applicant can receive communications regarding the

appeal.

FAILURE TO FILE THE NOTICE WITHIN THE 21-DAY PERIOD WILL RESULT IN DISMISSAL OF THE APPEAL.

Certification Pending Appeal

An individual who appeals a decision to suspend certification, revoke certification, or deny recertification

will retain the certification held at the time the appeal was filed until review of appeal has been

completed.

Review of Appeal

The Appeals Committee will conduct and complete the appeal within 45 days after receipt of the Notice

of Appeal. The Appeals Committee, in its discretion, may extend the time for completing the appeal.

The written decision of the Appeals Committee, including a statement of the reasons for its decision, will

be reported to the individual and the ABA. The decision of the Appeals Committee is final and binding

upon the individual, the ABA, and all other parties.

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Appeals Policy

Communication

Written communication to the Appeals Committee must be sent in a manner that confirms receipt (e.g.,

certified mail with return receipt requested or express mail with signature or delivery confirmation

required), and addressed to

American Board of Audiology

11480 Commerce Park Drive, Suite 220

Reston, VA 20191 USA

Written communication to the individual may be sent by e-mail, regular U.S. mail, or in a manner that

confirms receipt (e.g., certified mail, express mail with signature required) at the address indicated on the

Notice of Appeal.

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Recertification–Maintenance

The ABA requires that each audiologist who holds a PASC credential be recertified every three years. The

recertification requirements are designed so that PASC certificants continue to expand their knowledge in

the field of audiology and stay current on changes in the field.

Recertification Requirements

At the conclusion of each three-year certification cycle, certificants must meet the following

recertification requirements:

• Completion of 60 hours of continuing education (including a minimum of 15 hours of Tier I

continuing education and three hours in professional ethics).

• Thirty of the total hours must pertain to pediatrics.

• Adherence to the ABA Codes of Ethics and state licensure/registration regulations for the

practice of audiology, where applicable.

• Payment of required fees.

Hours earned in excess of the hours required in each three-year certification period may not be carried

over for credit to the next recertification period.

If continuing education requirements are not met within the three-year period, your certification will no

longer be valid. Your status will be changed to “closed,” you may not use the term PASC or logo with

credentials, and your name will be removed from the list of PASC certificants on the ABA website.

Inactive Status

In cases of temporary disability or extraordinary circumstances resulting in extreme hardship, an ABA

certificant can petition for inactive status of their certification. The individual is required to notify the ABA

in writing requesting Inactive status for a length of temporary disability not to exceed 12 months. The ABA

specifically reserves the right to independently corroborate the reason for the request. Certificants may

not use the term PASC during inactive status.

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

The Examination

Exam Format

The PASC examination is administered online with live remote proctoring and is comprised of 100-scored

items plus 20 additional questions that are beta tested for future PASC examinations. The exam consists

of multiple-choice items (one correct response) and multiple response items (two or three correct

responses). All questions have four response options. Candidates will be permitted two and a half (2.5)

hours to complete the examination.

Exam Content

The content of the exam is shown in the test blueprint summary below. The breakdown of the exam is

shown by content domain and the number of scored items on the test in each domain.

The detailed test blueprint is shown below. Specific knowledge areas included in each content dimension

are indicated.

PASC Test Blueprint Summary

Content Domain

Qty

ASSESSMENT AND DIAGNOSIS OF AUDITORY AND VESTIBULAR DISORDERS

HABILITATION/REHABILITATION

CASE MANAGEMENT AND COUNSELING

MEDICAL AUDIOLOGY

PROFESSIONAL AND REGULATORY ISSUES

EDUCATIONAL AUDIOLOGY

Test Blueprint Detail

ASSESSMENT AND DIAGNOSIS OF AUDITORY AND VESTIBULAR DISORDERS 24

1. Obtain comprehensive case history

2. Otoscopy/video otoscopy and physical examination of the ear (e.g., assessment for anatomical

abnormalities, cerumen management)

3. Newborn hearing screening (e.g., Otoacoustic emissions, Automated Auditory Brainstem Response

(AABR)

4. Birth - 3 hearing screening (e.g., Otoacoustic emissions, Pure tone audiometry)

5. School age hearing screening (e.g., Otoacoustic emissions, Pure tone audiometry)

6. Electrophysiological evaluations (e.g., ABR, ASSR)

7. Cortical evoked potentials (e.g., MLR, ALR)

8. Behavioral audiologic evaluations, including air and bone-conduction testing

9. Tympanometric testing

10. Acoustic reflex testing

11. Wideband reflectance testing

12. Diagnostic otoacoustic emissions

13. Speech threshold audiometry (e.g., SAT, SRT)

14. Speech recognition testing

15. Tinnitus, hyperacusis, and/or misophonia evaluations

16. Auditory processing assessments

17. Vestibular assessments

18. Diagnosis based on case history and assessment data

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

HABILITATION/REHABILITATION 21

19. Explain test results and implications to patient/family/caregiver

20. Discuss benefits, limitations, and expected outcomes for hearing device with patient/family/caregiver

21. Provide unbiased information about communication options and intervention using a family-centered

approach

22. Identify areas of need for additional support (e.g., financial concerns, family support, physical

limitations, language/cultural needs)

23. Recommend hearing technology based on audiometric findings (e.g., traditional hearing aids, CI, bone

conduction, remote microphones)

24. Perform ear impressions in accordance with safety and standard infection control guidelines

25. Select earmold style while considering patient’s hearing loss and needs

26. Fitting and verification of traditional hearing aids

27. Programming and verification of cochlear implants

28. Fitting and verification of bone conduction devices

29. Fitting and verification of remote microphones and other assistive technology

30. Device validation (e.g., outcome measures, aided testing)

31. Aural (re)habilitation methods in the clinic and at home

32. Vestibular rehabilitation

33. Manage tinnitus, hyperacusis, and/or misophonia

34. Resources to connect families and caregivers with other users and recipients

CASE MANAGEMENT AND COUNSELING 22

35. Maintain comprehensive records regarding patient history, diagnosis, results, recommendations and

hearing equipment

36. Distribute written report(s) with permission to parent/caregiver, referral source, school and other

designated parties

37. Apply knowledge of auditory, speech, language and developmental milestones

38. Recommend rehab services (e.g., speech, OT and PT)

39. Recommend medical services (e.g., ENT, developmental pediatrics, mental health)

40. Recommend social services (e.g., social work, financial assistance, family-to-family support)

41. Recommend and coordinate audiologic follow-up need

42. Administer developmental and mental health screenings

43. Educate and recommend precautions regarding noise-induced hearing loss

44. Use culturally sensitive and trauma-informed methods of care and communication

45. Provide emotional support and empathy to patient/family/caregiver

46. Collaborate and/or participate with multidisciplinary teams regarding patient’s audiologic needs

47. Provide support for transition to adulthood (e.g., vocational rehabilitation services, clinical transfer,

higher education support)

MEDICAL AUDIOLOGY 16

48. Provide recommendations and monitor hearing, speech, and language of children with recurrent

otitis media)

49. Provide counseling and follow-up recommendations for children with genetic causes of hearing loss

50. Provide counseling and follow-up recommendations for children with non-genetic causes of hearing

loss

51. Provide counseling and follow-up recommendations for children with vestibular dysfunction

52. Apply knowledge of the head, neck, ear and central nervous system (CNS)

53. Apply knowledge of fetal development related to auditory and vestibular disorders

54. Apply knowledge of neuromaturation of the auditory system

55. Adapt test environment based on patient safety considerations (e.g., physical limitations, additional

diagnoses)

PROFESSIONAL AND REGULATORY ISSUES 9

56. JCIH and other practice guidelines

57. Standard infection control practices

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Sample Exam Questions

Below are sample questions in the same style and similar content as will be on the examination. Answers

are provided below.

Sample: Single-Answer Multiple-Choice Item

1. A two-month-old was referred to you because of failed ABR newborn hearing screening at the birth

hospital. The most appropriate diagnostic test would be:

A. BOA

B. VRA

C. OAE

D. ABR

2. You have identified a five-year-old as having severe unilateral sensorineural hearing loss. As you

discuss potential impact of this hearing loss on the child’s educational development you would tell

the parents:

A. With preferential seating the hearing loss will probably have no impact the child’s educational

development.

B. A hearing aid for the affected ear would be the best strategy for alleviating problems that the

hearing loss may cause.

C. A much higher risk for educational difficulties exists for this child than for children with two

normal hearing ears.

D. A binaural FM system would be the best strategy for alleviating problems that the hearing loss

may cause.

3. A 10-year-old child with bilateral moderate sensorineural hearing loss has been referred to you for

case management and hearing aid fitting. Your primary objective for the hearing aid fitting is:

A. Selecting a hearing aid color acceptable to child and parents to encourage acceptance and usage.

B. Selecting hearing aids that will allow the child full access to the speech spectrum.

C. Selecting hearing aids that will accommodate the greatest variety of HATs.

D. Selecting hearing aids that your use with a history of having very low maintenance requirements.

Sample: Multiple-Response Item 

4. An 8-year-old child typically has been through which of Erickson’s stages of psychosocial

development (including the current stage)? Select all that apply.

A. Identity vs. Role Confusion 

B. Autonomy vs. Shame

C. Industry vs. Inferiority 

D. Trust vs. Mistrust 

Answer Key: 1. D; 2. C; 3. B; 4. B, C, and D are all correct and should be marked. 

58. HIPAA requirements

59. Required information per state and federal law (e.g., Child Find, EHDI, suspected child abuse/neglect)

EDUCATIONAL AUDIOLOGY 8

60. Implement and/or manage Birth - 3 services and programming under Part C of IDEA

61. Implement and/or manage educational services under Part B of IDEA

62. Implement and/or manage educational services under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act

63. Provide expert audiologic review/recommendations for use in educational planning

64. Write goals for Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or Individual Education Plan (IEP) as part of a

multidisciplinary team

65. Evaluate educational needs and impact of hearing loss on education

66. Determine most appropriate and least restrictive amplification and assistive technology options

67. Provide programming, monitoring, and servicing of amplification devices

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

The Examination

Suggested Readings

The references listed below may prove helpful in the review of the subject matter areas included on the

examination. The listing of these references is intended for use as a study aid only. The ABA does not

intend the list to be exhaustive or to imply endorsement of these specific references, nor are the exam

questions necessarily taken from these sources.

• American Academy of Audiology Clinical Practice Guideline: Cochlear Implants

• American Academy of Audiology Clinical Practice Guidelines: Childhood Hearing Screening

• American Academy of Audiology Clinical Practice Guidelines: Diagnosis, Treatment, and

Management of Children and Adults with Central Auditory Processing Disorder

• American Academy of Audiology Clinical Practice Guidelines: Pediatric Amplification

• American Academy of Audiology Clinical Practice Guidelines: Remote Microphone Hearing

Assistance Technologies for Children and Youth from Birth to 21 Years

• American Academy of Audiology Code of Ethics

• American Academy of Audiology Position Statement on Early Identification of Cytomegalovirus in

Newborns

• American Academy of Audiology Practice Guidelines: Assessment of Hearing in Infants and Young

Children

• American Academy of Audiology Standards of Practice for Audiology

• Assessing Listening and Spoken Language in Children with Hearing Loss

• Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder (ANSD) Guidelines

• Clinical Management of Children with Cochlear Implants (2nd ed)

• Comprehensive Handbook of Pediatric Audiology (2nd ed)

• Counseling in Audiologic Practice: Helping Patients and Families Adjust to Hearing Loss

• Counseling-Infused Audiologic Practice (3rd ed)

• Counseling Persons with Communication Disorders and Their Families (6th ed)

• Educational Audiology Handbook (3rd ed)

• eHandbook of Auditory Evoked Responses: Principles, Procedures & Protocols

• Foundations of Aural Rehabilitation: Children, Adults, and Their Family Members (5th ed)

• Handbook of Clinical Audiology (7th ed)

• Hearing in Children (6th ed)

• IDEA Advocacy for Children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

• JCIH Year 2019 Position Statement: Principles and Guidelines for Early Hearing Detection and

Intervention Programs

• The NCHAM Book: A Resource Guide for Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI)

• Pediatric Audiology: Diagnosis, Technology, and Management (2nd ed)

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification Application

FORM 1: Patient & Case Management Hours

Make additional copies as needed.

Applicant Name: _________________________________________________________________________

Preferred Mailing Address: _________________________________________________________________

City: __________________________________________________ State: _______ Zip Code: ____________

Phone: ____________________________________ Fax: _________________________________________

E-mail: _________________________________________________________________________________

Company Name/Employer: _________________________________________________________________

Dates of Employment: Start (mo./yr.) ______________________ End(mo./yr.) _______________________

Supervising Audiologist’s Name (print): _______________________________________________________

Supervising Audiologist’s Title: ______________________________________________________________

Supervising Audiologist’s Signature: __________________________________________________________

Number of Hours Per Week Devoted to the Following Pediatric Patient Services:

Pediatric Patient Service

Number of Hours per Week

Screening

Diagnostic Evaluation

Counseling

Re(habilitation)

Number of Hours Per Week Devoted to the Following Case Management Activities:

Case Management Activity

Number of Hours per Week

Team Meetings

School Visits

Working with Other Agencies

Applicant Signature: ______________________________________________________________________

Date: __________________________________________________________________________________

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification Application

FORM 2: Professional Reference #1

Professional Reference for: ________________________________________________________________

APPLICANT NAME

How are you familiar with the candidate’s pediatric audiology practice?

Direct supervisor Indirect supervisor Colleague I refer my patients to this applicant

What dates did (do) you work with the candidate?

Start Date (mo./yr.) ___________________________ End Date (mo./yr.) ___________________________

Please indicate the direct pediatric audiology services the candidate does (or did) provide to patients

including the estimated number of hours per week devoted to each.

Type of Service

Provided – Yes or No

Number of Hours Per Week

Screening

Yes No

Diagnostic Evaluation

Yes No

Counseling

Yes No

(Re)habilitation

Yes No

Please indicate what case management services does (did) the candidate provides to patients.

Type of Service

Provided – Yes or No

Number of Hours Per Week

Team Meetings

Yes No

School Visits

Yes No

Working with Other Agencies

Yes No

Print Name: ____________________________________________________________________________

Company Name/Employer: ________________________________________________________________

Title: __________________________________________________________________________________

Signature: ______________________________________________________________________________

Date: ____________________________Contact Phone __________________________________________

Contact E-mail: __________________________________________________________________________

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification Application

FORM 2: Professional Reference #2

Professional Reference for: ________________________________________________________________

APPLICANT NAME

How are you familiar with the candidate’s pediatric audiology practice?

Direct supervisor Indirect supervisor Colleague I refer my patients to this applicant

What dates did (do) you work with the candidate?

Start Date (mo./yr.) ___________________________ End Date (mo./yr.) ___________________________

Please indicate the direct pediatric audiology services the candidate does (or did) provide to patients

including the estimated number of hours per week devoted to each.

Type of Service

Provided – Yes or No

Number of Hours Per Week

Screening

Yes No

Diagnostic Evaluation

Yes No

Counseling

Yes No

(Re)habilitation

Yes No

Please indicate what case management services does (did) the candidate provides to patients.

Type of Service

Provided – Yes or No

Number of Hours Per Week

Team Meetings

Yes No

School Visits

Yes No

Working with Other Agencies

Yes No

Print Name: ____________________________________________________________________________

Company Name/Employer: ________________________________________________________________

Title: __________________________________________________________________________________

Signature: ______________________________________________________________________________

Date: ____________________________Contact Phone __________________________________________

Contact E-mail: __________________________________________________________________________

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification Application

FORM 3: Non-Disclosure Agreement

As a candidate for the Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification Exam,

• I understand that the Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification (PASC) Exam is a confidential and secure

exam.

• I will not discuss the content of the exam with anyone during or after the administration.

• The exam is confidential. It is made available to me, the examinee, solely for the purpose of becoming

certified in Pediatric Audiology.

• I am expressly prohibited from disclosing, publishing, reproducing, or transmitting the exam, in whole or

in part, in any form or by any means, verbal or written, electronic or mechanical, for any purpose.

• I understand that if I provide false information or if I violate any of the PASC exam rules or procedures,

the Test Administrator may immediately dismiss me from the test session.

• I understand a breach of this agreement could result in disciplinary action.

Agree: I agree to accept these terms.

Disagree: You do not accept these terms. (Note: You will not be allowed to sit for the exam.)

Print Name: _____________________________________________________________________________

Signature: ______________________________________________________________________________

Date: __________________________________________________________________________________

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification Application

FORM 4: Demographic Information

The following information is solicited for statistical purposes. All questions are optional, but the ABA asks

that you please respond to the questions below.

1. What is your current employment status?

Full-time Part-time

2. Where is your primary practice setting?

Hospital Manufacturer Corporate Audiology Group Practice

Government School Private Practice / Owner

Military University/Academic Private Practice / Employee

ENT Clinic Other (please specify): _________________________________________

3. What is your position title?

Audiologist Contractor Audiologist Pediatric Audiologist

Clinical Audiologist Director Researcher

Consultant Educational AuD Teacher/Professor

4. How did you learn of the Pediatrics Audiology Specialty Certification (please check all that apply)?

Through the ABA website State Audiology association

Through a colleague

Through a publication (please specify): ___________________________________________________

Through another website (please specify): ________________________________________________

Through a broadcast email: ____________________________________________________________

At a conference or seminar (please specify): _______________________________________________

5. Who is paying for your PASC certification?

I am paying for the costs associated with obtaining the credential.

My employer is paying for ALL of the costs associated with obtaining the credential.

My employer is paying for SOME of the costs associated with obtaining the credential.

Please Specify ______________________________________________________________________

6. Why are you pursuing this specialty credential? (please check all that apply)

Professional recognition Peer to Peer Recognition / Patient recognition

To assist with reimbursement Benchmark my Pediatric Audiology knowledge

My employer suggested that I do so. Marketing reasons

Other (please specify): _______________________________________________________________

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

ediatric Audiology Specialty Certification Application

FORM 5a: Request For Test Accommodations

If you have a disability covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), please complete this form and

Form 5b: Documentation of Disability-Related Needs so your accommodations for testing can be processed

efficiently. The information you provide and any documentation regarding your disability and your need for

accommodation in testing will be treated with strict confidentiality.

Print Name: ____________________________________________________________________________

Mailing Address: ________________________________________________________________________

City: ______________________________________________ State: _______ Zip Code: _______________

Daytime Telephone Number: ______________________________________________________________

Email: _________________________________________________________________________________

Special Accommodations

I request special test accommodations for the ________ /________ administration of the PASC Exam.

MONTH YEAR

Please provide (check all that apply):

______ Reader

______ Extended examination time (time and a half or double time)

______ Frequent breaks

______ Access to auxiliary items (food, medication, or medical devices)

______ Other test accommodations (please specify)

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Comments: ___________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Signed: __________________________________________________ Date: _______________________

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification Application

FORM 5b: Documentation of Disability-Related Needs

Please have the appropriate professional (doctor, psychologist, psychiatrist) complete this form to

document the need for the requested test accommodation(s).

Professional Documentation

I have known ____________________________________________________________________________

EXAM CANDIDATE (PRINT NAME)

in my capacity as a ________________________________________________________________________

PROFESSIONAL TITLE

since _________ /______ /________

MONTH DATE YEAR

The applicant discussed with me the nature of the test to be administered. It is my opinion that because of

this applicant’s disability described below, he/she should be accommodated by providing the special test

accommodations listed on the Form 5a.

Description of Disability: __________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

Signed: ________________________________________________________________________________

Title: __________________________________________________________________________________

Print Name: ____________________________________________________________________________

Address: _______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

Telephone Number: _______________________________ Date: _________________________________

License # (if applicable): __________________________________________________________________

Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification

American Board of Audiology

Acknowledgements

The development of the Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification (PASC) was supported in part by an

educational grant from the American Academy of Audiology Foundation, funded by Phonak LLC, Starkey

Laboratories, and contributions from many members of the American Academy of Audiology.

11480 Commerce Park Drive, Suite 220

Reston, VA 20191 USA

Phone: +1.800.881.5410

Fax: +1.703.485.3555

E-mail: aba@audiology.org

www.boardofaudiology.org

of these materials without the express written permission of the American Board of Audiology is prohibited.