Scrubbed in for the ABSITE: Webinar Highlights

Authors: Natalia Correa MD, Alizeh Abbas MD, Camila R. Guetter MD MPH, Nensi Ruzgar MD 

This blog summarizes key advice, tools, and resources discussed in the AWS Resident & Fellow Committee webinar “Scrubbed for the ABSITE”. 

What is the ABSITE? 

The American Board of Surgery In-Training Examination (ABSITE) is an annual test taken by all general surgery residents across the United States. It is a four-hour, computer-based exam of approximately 250 multiple-choice questions spanning the breadth of general surgery.

Recent change to ABSITE Score Reports 

Historically, ABSITE scores were reported percentiles; however, recently, the ABSITE has shifted to reporting only raw scores, expressed as the percentage of questions answered correctly.

This change encourages emphasis on personal improvement rather than comparison and competition. While this may decrease anxiety around small fluctuations, longitudinal performance still matters. Programs expect residents to maintain or improve their score percentage over time and programs set certain thresholds for moonlighting privileges.

Top resources used for ABSITE preparation

Residents widely rely on question banks (Q-banks) as the foundation of ABSITE studying. Frequently recommended options include:

• SCORE and TrueLearn:  Q-banks with high-yield surgical content, detailed explanations, and performance analytics to identify weak areas. Most residents prefer mixed-topic blocks, supplemented by targeted practice when a deficiency becomes clear.
  
• ABSITE Quest: Another popular tool offering high-yield rapid review. ABSITE Quest also provides a two-day bootcamp with live or recorded videos for later access.

For content review beyond Q-banks, residents highlighted:

• Fiser’s The ABSITE Review: a concise text covering must-know concepts.
• Behind the Knife ABSITE review podcasts: ideal for commutes or downtime.
• SCORE/ABSITE Companion Book: an efficient reference aligned with exam style and content.

Some residents also use the Anki Yellow Deck, a spaced-repetition flashcard resource useful for daily review. However, because some cards contain outdated or incorrect content, users should verify information against reputable sources. 

How to fit studying into the busy residency schedule 

Time constraints make routine, flexible studying essential. Short, frequent sessions are generally more effective and sustainable than long study blocks. Strategies include:

• Completing questions in small windows of downtime (e.g., waiting for cases, during breaks).
• Using portable tools—apps for Q-banks, Anki, or podcasts during commutes.
• Setting weekly, not daily goals, to account for clinical unpredictability and reduce stress.

Residents also emphasize the importance of full-length practice tests. Even one full practice exam every few weeks can improve focus, endurance, pacing, and self-assessment. 

Day-of-Exam Tips

Residents recommended simple but important steps for success on exam day:

• Get a good night’s sleep the night before, if possible.
• Bring snacks and water, even if programs provide food.
  
• Use the 45-minute break between the test’s two sections to recharge—eat, relax, and reset mentally before continuing.

Final Takeaways

The ABSITE can feel intimidating, especially when taking it for the first time. However, familiarizing yourself with the test format, selecting a few reliable resources, and developing a consistent and flexible study routine can make preparation manageable. Every resident learns differently, so a period of trial and error may be necessary to find the best tools and schedule for you. Start preparing early—ideally throughout the year—and aim to start studying regularly by November. Most importantly, give yourself grace during demanding rotations; progress matters more than perfection. You got this!

For those interested in hearing the full discussion, the recorded webinar is available in the AWS online webinar library. Watch your AWS email newsletter and social media for future educational programs!

Lead Author Bio:

Natalia Correa, PGY-3 at the University of Miami Holy Cross General Surgery Residency Program, was born and raised in Miami and proudly embraces her Colombian heritage. Her involvement with AWS began during medical school at Florida State University through the AWS Medical Student Committee. She has since served on the Resident and Fellow Committee and the Conference Planning Committee, contributing to nationwide trainee programming and conference development.

Outside of clinical work, she mentors medical and premedical students and participates in outreach supporting the professional growth of future surgeons. She plans to pursue a career in plastic and reconstructive surgery, with interests in surgical education, mentorship, diversity within the field, and improving disparities in access to plastic and reconstructive care.

About the Webinar: In November 2025, the Association of Women Surgeons (AWS) Resident and Fellow Committee hosted a webinar introducing the American Board of Surgery In-Training Examination (ABSITE) for first-time test takers. The session explored tips and strategies for preparing for and taking the ABSITE, shared from the perspectives of three general surgery residents: Dr. Jennifer E. Geller (PGY-2, Thomas Jefferson University), Dr. Natalia Correa (PGY-3, University of Miami Holy Cross), and Dr. Clementine Foucher (PGY-4, University of Arizona Tucson). The discussion was moderated by AWS Resident and Fellow Committee Chair Dr. Alizeh Abbas and was attended by residents nationwide.