Focus on DR: ABR Adds Resources for First DR Oral Exam Cohort
By ABR Associate Executive Director for Diagnostic Radiology Mary S. Newell, MD, and ABR Communications Coordinator Heather S. Hopkins
August 2026;19(4):5
After a well-deserved rest, residents who recently passed the Diagnostic Radiology (DR) Qualifying (Core) Exam may be seeking detailed information about the DR Oral Exam, which will be administered for the first time in 2028. This will be the first cohort to experience the revised format, and the ABR has added many resources to its website to help them prepare.
The DR Oral Exam Study Guide covers exam content and scope, including the modalities, procedures, and disease categories that may be tested. As with study guides for the other radiology disciplines, it does not include an exhaustive list of potential subject matter, as this has historically been found not to be useful for candidates. Instead, the guide describes the observation, synthesis, and management skills that will be assessed during the exam.
For a deeper understanding of exam content and procedures, candidates can peruse Sample Cases and watch a DR Oral Exam Reenactment video. Sample cases from each exam category demonstrate the types of topics and depth of knowledge that will be evaluated on the oral exam. Images are presented, followed by a discussion of what responses an examiner may be looking for from a candidate, including observation, synthesis, and management of the case. The reenactment video demonstrates a variety of simulated case discussions, showing a range of performances, and explains where and how the mock candidate succeeded or struggled.
Many additional DR Oral Exam resources are available on the ABR website. The DR Oral Exam General FAQs, which have recently been expanded and reorganized, cover a broad range of topics and areas of concern to candidates. A June 2026 newsletter article debunking the “myths” that have emerged about the new DR Oral Exam may assuage candidates’ fears and clear up uncertainties. Another Beam article explains how oral exams are scored, which is sure to be of interest to candidates. Upcoming exam dates can be found here.
Finally, there is the new, detailed DR Remote Oral Exam Guide for Candidates. This information-rich document outlines the logistical requirements for the exam, including how to register, technical specifications for computer systems, location requirements, and accommodations for people with disabilities as well as for lactating and expectant parents. The guide is subject to change as final details get worked out over the next 18 months. Candidates should bookmark this link to make sure they are referring to the most up-to-date version.
Equipped with these resources and information, our hope is that candidates transitioning to the new DR Oral Exam will feel informed and confident about the path ahead.
