Pathologists’ Assistant - PA

Obtain certification and advance your career as a pathologists’ assistant with our specialized credential.

Provides anatomic pathology services under the direction and supervision of an anatomic pathologist. Performs a variety of tasks including gross examination and dissection of surgical pathology specimens and performance of postmortem examinations. Additional roles may include biobanking, pathology resident education and training, as well as administrative and supervisory responsibilities.

Eligibility Routes

Each credential has specific eligibility requirements. It’s your responsibility to confirm that your education, training, and/or experience meet the criteria. Submit the correct documentation with your application. Once submitted, the category and route of application cannot be changed.   

Check Your Eligibility

Pathologists’ Assistants – PA(ASCP)

An applicant must be able to verify that they meet all eligibility requirements, including education, training, and/or experience. For complete information, see the Documentation section of the website. 

Education does not need to be from the United States. Details are available by reviewing the webpage titled Acceptable Education, also available in the routes below. 

To be eligible for this examination category, an applicant must satisfy the minimum requirements (for degrees, the stated degree or higher) of at least one of the following routes:

  • The education received from a NAACLS-accredited Pathologists’ Assistant program is acceptable for a period of 5 years from the date of completion of that program.  

Application Fee (non-refundable): $540

Apply for PA(ASCP)

Beginning January 1, 2026, application fees for all ASCP certification examinations will increase by $10.


 

Information About Required Documentation

You must upload the appropriate documentation form when you apply online, verifying that you meet the training and/or experience requirements for your category and route of application. You will also need to submit an acceptable transcript or transcript evaluation verifying that you meet the academic requirements. Gather your documents before submitting your application and application fee.

Apply

Once you have confirmed that you meet the requirements and have gathered your documents, submit your online application.

Coming Soon! Digital Badges

In early 2026, the ASCP BOC will launch digital badging through Credly, a trusted provider that increases the visibility of ASCP BOC credential holders by securely showcasing and sharing professional credentials. Learn more about digital badges.

“ASCP BOC credentials affirm the credibility, integrity, and professionalism of laboratory practitioners.”

- Ilya Khramtsov, PA(ASCP)CM