Instructions for Applicants for Examination

Instructions for Program Directors

1.  You must complete your Operative Log on CTSNet in order to complete the ABTS Online Application for Examination.

2.  You must have either Internet Explorer or Netscape version 4.0 or higher installed and running on your computer. Your computer must be connected to the Internet by modem or by a high-speed connection and you must have cookies enabled on your web browser.

3.  Assemble date and location information about your training and experience including:  

• Academic Degree(s)
• Medical Degree
• General Surgery Residency Training
• Thoracic Surgery Residency Training
• Teaching Position(s)
• Clinical or Research Lab Position(s) Hospital Appointment(s)
• American Board of Surgery Certification (Both Part I and II)

4.  Obtain your CTSNet User ID and Password. If you do not know your password, you may obtain it by completing a feedback form.

5.  Make sure all of your case logs are entered properly in the CTSNet Resident OpLogs before your Program Director views your application. Early submission of your logs by your Program Director may delay the processing of your application.

6.  To complete the ABTS Online Application for Examination, go to the following web address: https://www.ctsnet.net/application/abts/.

7.  While you are completing the online Application, you will be instructed to print out and complete the Identification Form, Certification Form, and Application for Examination (Signature Page). Be sure to complete these forms and attach photos where appropriate.

8. When you have completed your Application, inform your Program Director. He/she is able to access your application and operative case lists for the purpose of reviewing them with you before signing off for submission. The Program Director must also complete and print two (2) web-based forms for you to submit with the forms that you will mail to the Board office. Please see below.

9. Either your Program Director or you must mail the following completed items to the ABTS office at:

• Endorsement of the Program Director
• Certification of Candidate's Case List
• Identification Form
• American Board of Thoracic Surgery Certification Agreement
• Application for Examination (Signature Page)
• A copy of a US medical license(s) showing a valid through date 
• A check for $475.00.

Keep the Board Office informed of any address changes during the certification process. Deadlines will not be extended due to the wrong address.

1.  Make sure the Resident has entered all of his or her cases into the CTSNet Resident OpLogs. Submission of an Application with incomplete logs will delay the application process. Review the operative logs carefully before submitting the Application.

2.  You must have either Internet Explorer or Netscape version 4.0 and higher installed and running on your computers. You must have cookies enabled on your web browser. Your computer may be connected to the Internet by modem or by a high-speed connection.

3.  Obtain your CTSNet User ID and Password. If you do not know yours, you may obtain it by completing a feedback form.

4.  An applicant should inform you when he/she has completed the Online Application. At that point, go to https://www.ctsnet.net/applicationreview/abts/ and follow the procedure described.

5.  While you are completing the forms, you will be instructed to print out and complete the Endorsement of the Program Director and Certification of Candidate's Case List. Be sure to include these two (2) forms with the forms that the resident submits.

6.  The Applicant or you must mail the following completed items to the ABTS at:

• Endorsement of the Program Director
• Certification of Candidate's Case List
• Identification Form
• American Board of Thoracic Surgery Certification Agreement
• Application for Examination (Signature Page)
• A copy of a US medical license(s) showing a valid through date
• A check for $475.00.