Exam Comparison
ARRT (R) vs CST
Comparing the ARRT Radiography Certification Exam (R) and the NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist (CST). Both fall under Allied Health & Medicine. Both are covered by the Allied Health Exam Prep app.
ARRT (R) vs CST: At a Glance
| Detail | ARRT (R) | CST |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | ARRT Radiography Certification Exam (R) | NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) |
| Governing Body | ARRT | NBSTSA |
| Number of Questions | 230 | 175 |
| Time Limit | 230 minutes | 4 hours |
| Passing Score | 75 (scaled) | 98 of 150 scored items correct |
| Exam Fee | $225 USD standard application fee | $230 AST member / $340 non-member |
| Category | Allied Health & Medicine | Allied Health & Medicine |
| C3RT App | Allied Health Exam Prep Soon | Allied Health Exam Prep Soon |
Content Areas Compared
ARRT (R) Domains
- Radiation Protection(17%)
- Equipment Operation and Quality Control(9%)
- Image Production(23%)
- Radiographic Procedures(37%)
- Patient Care and Education(14%)
CST Domains
- Perioperative Concepts and Foundations(30%)
- Intraoperative Procedures(42%)
- Postoperative Patient Care(11%)
- Healthcare Sciences(17%)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ARRT (R) and CST?
The ARRT (R) (ARRT Radiography Certification Exam (R)) is administered by ARRT and consists of 230 questions. The CST (NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)) is administered by NBSTSA and consists of 175 questions. Both are Allied Health & Medicine credentials.
Can I take both the ARRT (R) and the CST?
Yes, the ARRT (R) and CST are separate credentials with separate eligibility requirements. Each is awarded by a different governing body (ARRT and NBSTSA respectively). Check the official requirements for each before registering.
Which should I take first, ARRT (R) or CST?
The right sequence depends on your career goals and current credentials. The ARRT (R) is offered by ARRT with a passing score of 75 (scaled), while the CST is offered by NBSTSA with a passing score of 98 of 150 scored items correct. Review the eligibility requirements for each with the respective governing bodies before deciding.
Does C3RT cover both the ARRT (R) and the CST?
C3RT is building apps for both the ARRT (R) and the CST. Both will be available on iOS and Mac.
The ARRT Radiography Certification Exam (R) (ARRT (R)) is administered by ARRT. The NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) is administered by NBSTSA. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.