A Commitment to Audiology Practice
Becoming a Board Certified Audiologist® means that an audiologist has acquired higher-level knowledge and skill in the field of audiology. Being a Board Certified Audiologist® testifies to an audiologist’s expertise in audiology and demonstrates to colleagues, other healthcare providers, patients, and employers that he or she has acquired a high level of knowledge in the field of audiology and is the best option for treating patients with audio-vestibular disorders and hearing loss.
While a certification is not a guarantee of any particular skill or competency, an audiologist holding board certification has demonstrated the ability to pass a rigorous examination and has practiced in the field of audiology for a minimum number of years.
Board certification is voluntary and is not tied to any other certification. Board certification is offered by the ABA without requirement for membership in any professional organization and may be obtained independent of any other certification.
GABC at a Glance
2026 Beta Exam
THE CREDENTIAL
Board Certified Audiologist® (BC-A)
WHO'S ELIGIBLE
Licensed audiologists in clinical practice — doctorate + 5 yrs (3 with ABAC), or master's + 7 yrs
KEY DATES
| Apply from | Jul 1 |
| Apply by | Sep 15 |
| Register | Aug 4 – Oct 13 |
| Exam (online) | Nov 6 – 16 |
Fees: $125 application + $300 exam fee
(members; $160/$350 non-members)
Passing the beta exam earns the full BC-A credential.
Why Be a Board Certified Audiologist®
As a professional audiologist, you deserve to be
recognized and appreciated for what you do.
Like most professionals, you want to become better at it, so you look for opportunities for ongoing, meaningful professional development. By earning your Board Certified Audiologist® credential, you are joining with other professionals in enhancing the status and credibility of the profession.
Board certification is the hallmark credential in most professions. Board certification verifies professional experience to employers and provides consumers with a method of identifying audiologists with higher-level knowledge, thus increasing their confidence in their audiologist’s expertise. An audiologist holding board certification has passed a rigorous exam and demonstrates knowledge and experience in the field.
Audiologists holding the ABA’s Board Certified Audiologist® credential can advertise that they are a primary destination for patients with auditory and hearing disorders.
Typically, achieving board certification requires training, study, and staying ahead of the curve in audiology. ABA board certification showcases your individual mastery by confirming proficiency and knowledge in the field of audiology. Being a Board Certified Audiologist® also requires recertification every five years, proving that you are maintaining current knowledge in the field of audiology.
Being a Board Certified Audiologist®:
- grants you more credibility as an audiologist and sets you apart from other audiologists
- serves as an impartial third-party endorsement of your knowledge and experience
- can improve career opportunities and advancement
- can give you the “edge” when being considered for a promotion or other career opportunities
- prepares you for greater on-the-job responsibilities
- is a clear indicator of your willingness to invest in your own professional development
- offers greater recognition from peers
- demonstrates a commitment to professional ethics and education
While a certification is not a guarantee of any particular skill or competency, an audiologist holding board certification has demonstrated the ability to pass a rigorous examination and has practiced in the field of audiology for a minimum number of years.
Proper Use of Designation
GENERAL AUDIOLOOGY BOARD CERTIFICATION®
Those audiologists who have earned the General Audiology Board Certification® (GABC) should represent themselves as a Board Certified Audiologist ® on their business card, under their signature, on letterhead, etc.
