I FAILED my Medical Laboratory Scientist ASCP BOC Exam
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- čas přidán 11. 01. 2021
- Hi there! My name is Rosa and I want to share with you how I FAILED my ASCP BOC Exam. There are many people who only share the positives in their lives, which is great. That does not always translate into real life and the struggles and challenges people face on a daily basis. I did not pass the MLS ASCP Exam and I hope me sharing this story will encourage you if you are in the same situation or currently studying for your exam. Thank you for watching and stay positive :)
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Update: I failed the ASCP on 1st attempt, passed on 2nd attempt. I must say it's a tricky exam, as questions are random, on different areas. My 1st exam, looking back, had easier questions, though I failed. I scored 394 on 1st try. I was stressed and put in more work for 2nd try. I scored only 438 on 2nd, which was over 38 points for minimal passing ( 400 is minimal). I prayed before and after, I thank God( you get your preliminary pass alert after submitting answer to 100th question) Wouldn't lie, but I sat in front of computer in my cubicle at the Pearson site and give thanks to God for passing, as if I was to compare, the 2nd attempt was very difficult leveled questions, a lot on urinalysis, which shouldn't be, according to ASCP question breakdown guide, so thats weird. They shoot alot of blood bank questions, which I think I got correct. To note, this was my method in 2nd attempt: I flagged 80% of questions, so at end, I can review those questions, but be careful, as the 2½ hours went by FAST! I realized from failing the 1st exam that ONLY bottomline helped. The Polinsky cards are good but too detailed to know, and the BOC book is a total waste of time, as no question repeated. The quizzlet I never used, and I was prompted to buy the package from the ASCP website ( practice questions plus study materials), but a friend told me just study the bottomline and I will pass ( he was right). The LAB CE have a lot of questions yea, but I used it a while before, and if I can recall well, NO similar questions from LAB CE were on the ASCP exam. My advise, from the experience of failing it once is this: study the bottomline in detail, use the pics and memorizing tricks in the book to remember stuff. Use youtube videos, like for blood bank explanation of stuff like antibody identification, blood typing, hepatitis ag/ ab stuff, etc. Study the least 2 hours per night( I worked full time, so I did this after work every day), get enough rest, drink a can of soda before the exam ( my smart brother told me this, as I guess the soda gives you the sugar and energy and focus just before writing the exam), and PRAY and ask God for guidance ( I had a friend's friend pray and ask God to make me pass on my next attempt, thanks to both of them too, plus numerous people and family who prayed for me, as they knew how stressed I was to rewrite it again). Know the ref range for those analytes like blood gas, co2, ca2+, etc. Plus wbc, rbc, platelets, etc ranges. During exam, a question will give you a scenario, and will give you the ref range and patient's value. I wrote down( on pad they provided) the ranges ( as you cannot remember everything) , as likely, there will be another question where they will not provide ref range and ask you what's the issue, but you have already written the ranges from earlier question. Also, the questions are random. Number 1 can be blood bank, number 2 chemistry, number 3 chem again, number 40 is blood bank again, etc. So it's NOT each area with questions together( it's random). If you really don't know the answer to a question, flag it, and move on, you will get back to it after you complete the last question( #100), then you can review all flagged questions. Someone told me if say you have 10 flagged questions and you are totally lost as to the answers for all 10, chose the choice "C" for ALL 10 questions, rather than a,or b, or c, or d randomly, maybe it's a "trick" answering multiple choice questions? Not sure, just a suggestion what I was told. Like I said, it was a struggle, and stress for me, as I procrastinated for 2 years, after completing my degree, before I attempted the ASCP, but I delayed, as I had some personal problems, but my advise, it can be done at a later time, but you will forget stuff , so set a date for exam when stuff is fresh in your brain. Not sure what else to contribute here, but feel free anyone, to ask any questions here, I will respond in a timely manner. Oh, I forgot to mention. When you fail, only then will ASCP provide a breakdown of your scores for the exam. If you've passed, they will NOT give you a breakdown of the areas. I was disappointed, as I wanted to know what areas I did well/ worst in, but hey, that's their clever( and tricky) way of doing it. They SHOULD provide a breakdown, fail or pass, but that's their stupid rules, sorry for saying this. Having said that, I will NEVER know which areas I did bad in, which areas I was stronger in, that's messed up ASCP! I thank God I'm done with that and urge students preparing for the ASCP Boards to follow what I've mentioned above. It's just MY advise. Miss Rosa Perez, I must thank you for your video, as it was inspirational for everyone, including me. You gave me hope, and although I failed on 1st attempt, I managed to barely passed on 2nd attempt. I pray that you pass on your next attempt♡♡♡..... The ASCP gives 5 attempts only, even if I had failed on 2nd attempt, I would NOT have given up, and would have try again ( you get more confidence and get stronger in life after failure!)....I can go on and on, but I will conclude here. I want everyone to study and pass, regardless of numerous attempt/s. Life is not perfect, and though it might appear perfect for some, it's NOT. We all have our little problems in life to deal with and no one can honestly say that their life is perfect, if so, its a total LIE. GOD sometimes test us differently, in different ways. Be strong, pray and be simple in life. Be nice to others and good will follow you, if not now, it will follow you eventually, trust me on this. Be blessed everyone 🙏 ✨ ❤ 💖 💕 💓 🙏. ......
Thank you so much for the advice and kind words. I’m very happy that you passed
May this be words of encouragement to everyone!!!
I want to help everyone, just as how kind you are Rosa. Anyone who's using your channel can ask and I will reply, I promise that, as I went thru hell , and want folks to know about the exam and be prepared. Please, don't give up! I know frustration builds when failure keeps happening ( I am a true example of this), but success will eventually prevail, at some point in time. You will definitely be disappointed for failing 1st, or 2nd or whatever time, but keep pushing. Remember, it's 5 attempts, but don't give up. I know of 2 students who failed all 5 times, that's tough, but fight hard for it folks. Please don't give up!!!!
Thank you so much I was so disappointed 😞 about it but after reading your comment you gave me hope.
Yes, hope is always there for everyone. Remember, life has its ups & downs...never give up! If I made it, I feel ANYONE can do it! Come on guys!!!
This is very helpful-I appreciate you sharing your tips and experiences. I'm taking immunology and just finished heme, and it is haaard! A lot harder than I expected. So I really bumped up my study routine this class. I'm not a good test taker so I am nervous, so this is helpful and I feel more confident knowing how and what I will need to study. And, I appreciate your sharing your 1st attempt. I don't see it as a "failure" because like you said, now you know the rigor and also what to study. Plus, you are helping all of us. :)
You're welcome! I appreciate your words. Take that extra time to study. I am not the best test taker myself but try your best not to let those fears overtake your thinking before and during the exam. That is true we can all learn from our mistakes and do better next time.
You will pass the exam next time for sure! Don't stress! My blessings ❤️🙏🏾
Thank you for the blessings I hope so :)
Hey girl! Wordsology and labce helped a lot. Wordsology is a blog and has a lot of recall and charts! It’s especially helpful for micro! Love your channel! 💕
Thanks for sharing!! I'll check those out thank you so much!! :)
Where do you find recalls ?! I’ve been looking everywhere
i'm so glad i found this channel! i'll be starting my post-bacc CLS program here in SoCal, and tbh it was just a struggle to apply since there's almost no CLS content creators. i would love to hear your experience taking the exam the 2nd time as well as any study tips when you pass (bc you will girl!) ;) it's also so interesting to hear that you don't need to be certified in some states, it's a requirement here in cali. i wish you the best of luck and i look forward to hearing your experience the 2nd time around!
Hi Clarisse! Thank you so much for checking out my channel! I did not pass again on my second try at the exam. It was very difficult and I did not feel fully prepared for it at all. I unfortunately do not have study tips as I did not pass :( Yes that's right, I am working in a research lab right now and I do not need the exam. Thank you so much for the support and I wish you well in your post-bacc program! :)
@@RosaPerez did you ever pass the exam?
I just passed my MLS exam today. All I can say is that "Prayer makes miracles" . I only did self review for 1 month(2 weeks before exam was the time I focus 100%, So kinda late) using Harr and BOC book PDF. During the exam,only 10% review questions appeared but i just remained calm till the end. To sum it up, I did 70% prayer and 30% review. I thank God for everything. 🙏
I'm happy for you. Always a happy moment when you pass, however, remember sometimes failure is not the end of the World. CONGRATS!
God didn’t take the exam, you did so give yourself some credit. You passed because you worked hard.
I studied the BOC book, but I didn't see a single question from it. I called the ASCP customer service. They told me that they don't bring questions from the BOC book. They will bring a similar questions, but not from the BOC book. I have to find the ASCP questions bank
Thank you for sharing your story we all greatly appreciate it! Which book did you find more useful while studying and how long were you out of school when you took the exam? You’re efforts, studying, and prayers are why you passed 🤗 make sure to take time to celebrate as well!
@@RosaPerez I took my first exam after about 6 months of my graduation. I studied Media Lab CE which was recommended by one of our teachers, but I failed. I didn't see a single question from that source. The second time I studied BOC book 5th edition and I failed again. I called customer service of ASCP they told me that we don't bring questions from the BOC book. Right now I am studying one of the online ASCP exam simulations. The owner of the company is in the Philippines 🇵🇭 I hope I pass my exam on the third time.
Love your honesty! I hope you pass next time 😊 👍👍
Thank you! I will try!
I pass the exam yesterday (my first time) I was working in a private lab and only read one book only 4-5 days 2-3hour. All you need is read Clinical Laboratory Science Review by Patsy. All my class pass the ascp the first time with this book.
Are you a traditional tech?
would this book help prepare for the SCYM-Cytometry cert?
Plzz mention the book here
May link po kau nyan ma'am?
Do you have a pdf copy of those?
Thank You so much for this video. I looked at previous videos from other people and it was from years ago. I graduated in 2019.I took the exam and failed in october 2020 . I cried so much , felt discouraged and stupid. Because of stress I was advised to relax for 3 months and not study because of my anxiety. I started studying again but I still am so unmotivated and highly afraid of redoing the test and reaching failure. Its nice to see that I am not the only one failing lately. Thank you for this video and your courage.
Took mine in January 2020 and failed too. I felt the exact same way as you did and had to take time too because studying would stress me out and felt anxious, now i am into studying again and feeling more confident! Good Luck!!!
@@Pharmdi Thank You! Good Luck to you a well. I still feel super anxious about studing. I’m hoping that will stop soon and that I will be motivated again. I hope that this next time around I have more microbiology considering that is my strong subject along with some hematology! Wishing you all the best :)
@@barbaramartins7744 thank you! And take your time, you will get there and be motivated again! And wow microbiology is my weakest subject ! Im struggling with it rn, it is just a lot. Do you have any recommendations for micro other than LabCE? . I found wordsology very helpful and a couple of books and also the online class on the board site, but still struggle with that subject.
@@Pharmdi Not sure if my long reply posted lol let me know if its there and I can re explain 😅
@@barbaramartins7744 it didn’t lol
For the chemistry section, does it base it off of everything from chem 120 and up and if so do you have to remember formulas for this exam?
Does anyone please know if the ascp BOC exam is required for a Medical technologist or a Clinical lab scientist/Medical lab scientist to actually work in New Jersey after graduating from a accredited program?
And if it is required in New Jersey, is that the only exam needed to be able to work the actual job after graduating an accredited program?
I just took the same test on Friday and also failed. I also made the same mistake by changing answers bc i was so nervous. We got it next time for sure !!! 💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽
Hi did you end up taking the exam again? hope all is well :)
My classmates and I all passed on our first attempt! I scored a 557 and you only need a 400. The exam was very difficult and from question 1-100, I was unsure that I was passing which is a good thing because the test is adaptive so the more questions you get right the harder the exam gets but the more questions you get wrong, the easier it is. Media Lab (Labe CE) was a good learning tool but I wouldn’t recommend it alone. Take as many practice exams on Lab CE and look at your average difficulty and % questions you got right. I ranged from a 5.5-6.9 difficulty level with 60-68% questions correct. Also the review cards from Polanski were a life saver and the BOC study guide book was very helpful. It mimicked the style of questions that the BOC will ask 100% better than what lab CE asked. The last bit of advice I have is don’t freak out. Answer each question to the be best of your ability even if it’s something you never witnessed!😉
Hi Diamonte! Thanks for taking the time to write this message. How long did you study for prior to taking the exam? Were the three study tools you used (Lab CE, Polanski, and BOC)?
@@RosaPerez No problem, I have been a fan of your videos since I had first entered the MLS program and they were very informative about the profession so thank you for taking the time to make videos like this! Yes, I used those 3 study materials plus my school notes. After graduating I scheduled the exam 2 weeks out and studied religiously lol. Everyone that I have talked to that did not pass the exam was not because they didn’t know the material, but was because they had test anxiety. Just remember by the time we finished clinicals and the program we are already MLS (CLS or MT). The BOC is just checking to see if we know what the hell we are talking about!😂 You got this Rosa!!!!!
I appreciate the support and you're welcome. It's nice to hear about peoples experiences and that was the purpose with my channel. How many hours a day do you think you studied in those two weeks? I had major test anxiety while taking this exam and I could see why it would affect performance. Thats very true I wish I would've went into the exam with a more positive mentality.
@@RosaPerez My study hours were like work shifts lol. 6-8 hrs for a week 1/2. I took vacation from work to study for it. My class mates and I also studied together sometimes to polish up on our weaker areas. Also, congratulations on being accepted to PA school!🙌🏾
Wow! Thanks for being so brave and telling us how you didn’t pass... I take in September and I’m a 😱 scared
You’re welcome!! Best of luck on your exam make sure you study a lot
@@RosaPerez thank You, thanks..... I didn’t pay attention to when video made, but have you taken it again?
@@stephaniedeluna9727 I retook it again this past Wednesday but it didn’t go too well I didn’t pass again.
@@RosaPerez oh no, sorry to hear that... but don’t give up!! It is a lot information, I don’t know how to keep it all in.... but I’m not giving up, so u don’t either....
Thank you so much Stephanie I’m gonna keep trying and definitely add me on Instagram we can definitely talk on there. It was so hard I feel like I had a grasp on a lot of the stuff but there was also a lot of stuff that came up that I’ve never seen before on the exam.
I got 3 months to prepare, what is your advice?
I am preparing my state license exam first time, just for medical laboratory technician, not MLS or MT level
and they give me only big topic:
blood banking,
clinical microbiology,
mycology
parasitology
virology (including COVID-19)
phlebotomy,
laboratory safety,
urinalysis
clinical immunology,
clinical hematology,
clinical chemistry,
histopathology
cytopathology
and histotechnology.
based on the big topic, how to prepare like this exam? which books should I buy?
when I were university, professor did not giving any class notes above topic. And there is no any past paper in my state license, and the content list just gave us the big topic, this is the first time they held, and I don't find any review book resource in Amazon. How would you prepare this kind of license exam?
___________________
and I found some question may just helpful, but still don't know how to prepare...and I don't know the answer how to come up this?
could you explain the answer below the questions? or any advice you can tell me? which book is good for me?
Coagulation:
1) What method name to perform ESR?
Ans: Westergren method
Phlebotomy:
2) black top tube and blue top tube is the same anticoagulant, Why can black top tube after the blue top tube?
Ans: (still don't know!)
Hematology:
3) If the patient got 15% of beta4 molecule, what is the genotype it present?
A.（α－/ αα）
B.（β° / β°）
C.（β+ / β+）
D.（α－/－－）
Ans: D
4) Which are include erythropoietin receptor？
①pluripotent stem cell ②early BFUE ③late BFUE ④CFUE ⑤pronormoblasts ⑥reticulocyte
Ans: ③late BFUE ④CFUE ⑤pronormoblasts
Immunology:
5) Toll-like receptor activate what factor, and what is the sequence?
Ans: ①MyD88 ②IKK ③IRAK1/4 ④NFκB, ①③②④
Virology:
6) If 10^3 pfu viruses infected 10^5 cells, what is the MOI?
ANS: 0.01
Microbiology:
7) How to prepare 0.8 McFarland? And what is it for?
ANS: (still don't know!)
8) Which species can make 0.5% sodium deoxycholate hydrolysis reaction?
ANS: Vibrio cholerae
Mycology:
9) Which stain can make Cryptococcus neoformans capsule to become red？
ANS: Mucicarmine stain
Urinalyses:
10) What is the normal ratio of (dead sperms : live sperms)?
ANS: (still don't know!)
Parasitology:
11) Which 2 ova can look like the same size & shape?
ANS: Clonorchis sinensis & Metagonimus yokogawai
Chemistry:
12) What is the cause of tyrosine and tyrosinemia?
ANS: lack of Fumarylacetoacetate hydrolase will cause Tyrosinemia.
13) Using HPLC to analysis HbA1c, what is the solid phase?
ANS: Cation exchange resin
14) 1 International unit（IU）= ? Katal（kat）
ANS: 1.67×10^(-8)
I got LabCE and polansky card, but still don't useful!
LabCE score avg. 70, diff avg. 7.0
Just passed my ASCP exam 3 days ago. I watched your video a day before I took the test and felt so nervous. I even didn't believe when I saw PASS on the computer screen!
I’m so glad you were able to pass!!
I’ll pray for you sister 🙏🏼
Thank you!! I appreciate it
what is the difference between DCLS and ASCP exams?
You can do this don’t get discouraged I pass on the second try. Good luck to you
Thank you! How did you study for it the second time?
I printed out the new requirements since every year the BOC changes to learn the principles I used Success in clinical laboratory science textbook and then tested myself using Labce adaptive mode and BOC.
Thank you I will do that. May I ask how your study schedule was?
Sure I spend an hour everyday focusing on one subject that I score low in. Create mnemonics to help you remember those key areas. But don’t forget to study your strong subjects to. While you are at lunch, or hanging after work do practice question and your subject of the day. Then on Sundays take a 100 question tests. On labce wherever you see red focus on that the following week. The second time I passed I my difficulty level was about 6.9 overall on the adaptive mode. It not about the passing percentage on Labce it about your difficulty level. The harder your question the better you will do.
@@jazmynebrown3901 could you please share your study material with us ..?
You are still young!!! You will do it!❤️❤️
why thank you!
@@RosaPerez did you make it?!?😭
I'm currently studying bachelor's in medical laboratory technology. After that i want to go for master's in medical biochemistry. Are tgere exams like ascp for biochemistry? I'm not American btw
So does the research lab you work at require you to have been in an MLT or MLS program? Or was is the training you got from a program you did? (Unless you have a Bachelor's in it). What type of research do you do at the place you work at now? Do you like working in the hospital more or at the research lab?
Mary Moore you are a researcher?
Dang, I just passed mine today, happy for you that you kept at it.
Nice! Any advice for those taking the exam?
I'm taking mine soon, any advice on what books to use to study or things to do to prepare that were most helpful?
The polansky book is very good and many people have passed when studying from it.
I have a question. W a bachelor's..degree. w/out. Passing the state board..can I still. Work. For the mean time. Please..THANKS
Some jobs do let you. You should check what jobs your interested in.
You can do this don’t get discouraged I pass on the first try,but it takes more time to cover it.i think you will do that....good luck
!!!!!!
Hello. Congrats! 🎉🎊 How long did you study for the exam?
Hi Rosa I’m sure you’ll do great when you retake the exam. Best of the luck!! I also have a question. I recently graduated with a bachelors in biochemistry but I would love to become a MLS and I was thinking in doing a masters in it. Do you recommend doing the masters? Or would it be better to do a post bac? Thanks
You don't make much more money with a masters but it allows you to do management
Depends what state you are in, with a master’s you can move up to management faster than those with a bachelors. I’m graduating with my master’s next year from NYMC in CLS. It’s not a bad thing to do. There are those getting even their PhD now in this field. So yes go for it.
Same thing happens to me now, I didn't pass my first attempt, so did you pass on your second try?
Does anyone know of any other agencies besides ASCP? I studied abroad but sadly my program Director does not want sign one of the worksheets needed as part of the MLS process
Check out AMT, medical technologist. Heard they are another option, I'm not too sure though..Google it...
You will get it next time I'm sure of it I believe in you
Thank you I hope so!
Anyone suggest any resources for the SCYM-Cytometry BOC exam?
I unfortunately do not I’m sorry 😞
Thank you Rosa. I think I will not be able to show my exam sheet where it says FAILED so I would say you are brave. I'm planning to apply to the program and I find your channel very useful
thank you I appreciate the support. You should apply if it is something you really want to do :)
@Medical Lab Scientist How you want me to help you?
so can we get hire in certain lab tech jobs even if we are not certified?
Yes it is definitely possible. It just depends on the job.
Hello,
Anyone who can help out here,
As a lab tech, if one were to work on the micro department, are we getting trained extensively in that area and are expected to have the knowledge as a microbiologist or is it like any other department, the facility just trains you in terms of procedures and daily tasks? I'm asking because micro is a huge topic on its own and I wanted to see how it would go if I were to work as a generalist.
Thanks in advance
As a tech in micro, you will be trained to do tech work. Micro is a huge part of tha ASCP exam for the technologist exam, so there will be extensive studies for micro, blood bank, hemo and chem. Not sure if I answered your query..
@@rauldeejay204
Thanks,
You did
Raul did a great job answering the question! Thank you !
Hey love your video, I watched it for when first posted. Do you have an update on passing the exam, and what you used to pass the exam since I take my exam in a year after I graduate from my program! Thank you, hope to hear your experience!
A lot of people in my lab recommended the Quick Compendium of Medical Laboratory Sciences book from ASCP.
@@luciem4562 yes! My program made me buy this for our upcoming preceptorship. Thank you for replying!
Hi! Can I ask a question about your work? I work as a biologist in Ukraine, it's like MLS in the USA. Thanks🙂
No
Can someone tell me how am suppose to use the site cuz I did my first trail but I didn't know how to use the site and do I need to save my answers or what should I do specifically.
Plz someone reply as soon as possible
What site? What trail? Not sure what you meant..
Can you explain a little bit more please?
I failed as well and studying for it.... But I should’ve pushed my test back because I walked in to the test with my son’s murder on my mind. But I’m trying to push forward and I like you love blood bank. Keep your head up. I think both of us will make it through. Peace Lady
Does anyone know if the ASCP test stimulation practice questions will help. I failed mine the first attempt.
I don't think it's helpful, as I was told that its not worth it to buy the ASCP practice questions, as hardly any is repeated, weird but true. Buy the books I've mentioned in my earlier post. It did helped me in passing...
This is correct. I did the ASCP test simulation and practice questions which did not help me as I did not pass the exam.
Hola Rosa. Hablas Español?
Hay alguna manera privada de comunicarme contigo?
how can I help you
Hi! So you are an MLS but didn’t pass the board but you can work still as MLS without certification? How many times can you take it? Love your vids!
Hi Gaby! Yes, I was working as a MLS without my certification. My previous employer required me to get certified within 1 year of hire. I now work in a research laboratory which does not require me to be ASCP certified but it is recommended. I will check how many times I think its three but I would have to check the website again. Thank you for the support :)
I just took the same exam. You are allowed to take it up to 5x.
i failed too on my first exam but whatever ! btw is mlt exam easier than mls? what if i already took 5 and failed..can i still do mlt exam?
I’m sorry :/ it’s a hard exam. I think you would have to contact ASCP to see if they will allow you to test again
I'm studying for the MB ASCP and am planning to take it in June/July. So far this year, I've been rejected from a PhD program and bombed a second round interview for a forensic biologist position =/. I'm really hoping this goes well for me. Thank you for sharing your story, it's so important to hear about the bad, the good, and everything in between. I wish you the very best!!!
Hopefully 2022 is a better year for you 🥰
I'm planning for MB can you advise?
@@zoobaali1766 Thank you so much! I ended up working in epidemiology so bit bad at all!
@@alycat8953 good luck! I am job hunting currently! Wish me luck!
@@raheelaaslam Sure thing! I would say the most important thing is not only to study the different assays, but how to troubleshoot problems for example, if your PCR shows contamination how would you purify the sample or what specific solvent/buffer/etc you would use to acheive diffferent things like denaturing cells or elution of nucleic acids. There were lots of very specific detailed questions. The Molecuar Diagnostics text book by Lela Buckingham was my biggest source of info I wish you the very best!!!
Hey Rosa! Did you pass the ASCP test? I am curiously about it. I hope you did it well! I will start my process soon!
Hi, I will make a video talking about where I am currently in my life career-wise very soon!
I told myself once I passed I have to come back to this video because YOU help me go through this journey. I thank you for that. I just took my board exam yesterday and I pass on my first try.
Congrats on your 1st try, I passed on my 2 nd try...I thank Rosa for her words of encouragement, and I'm here for everyone too :-)
@@rauldeejay204 thank you!
I am very proud of you passing! Thank you so much for coming back and commenting your progress after completing the ASCP exam :)
Thank you!! :)
I will too
Hi! Im already a certified mls since 2016. but im curious how u got that break down of all the subjects and ur individual grades.. i never seen that and I'd love to take a look.. where can i find that?
I can help to answer that. For the ASCP exam, they will ONLY give you a breakdown if you have FAILED the Exam. If you passed the test, NO breakdown is given regarding the areas you did well in, or bad in, something I don't like ....
@@rauldeejay204 thanks for the reply.. I did figured it out when i tried to visit the site and i can't really find the breakdowns of scores.. I guess they think it's pointless if u already pass..
Not to brag but i got 600+ score on my first attempt (can't remember the actual figure)
Not sure if it helped but i did the exam twice.. After u finish there is an option to review your answers from the beginning and i did that.. I wasn't worried about the time because 2hrs is plenty for me..
@@missyelise7033 the highest as in perfect score is a 900 I believe is what I was told but great job on scoring so high!!!
May you pass next time..
Are you allowed to work before the certification?
How much harder is the MLS cert than the MLT cert?
The MLT is way simpler, although both exams covers 100 questions.
Can you help us figure out how to differentiate cells better? I’m having trouble remembering all the little things as well. 😅
That’s actually a really great video idea thank you so much. I would love to go into how to differentiate cells but it will probably take me a little bit to get that video together since I would have to put in a lot of clips of cells.
I’m in the program till the end of summer 2022. It might be best to break it up into categories- basic cells, then all the things that can go wrong in each category. I know it’s a lot.
Rosa can you please share the best way to review blood bank because I'm not good at it. Thanks
Blood bank was the easiest for me. Learn the concepts first and then practice the antibody panels.
Thank you!
You’re welcome! Once you have the concepts down I know there’s a lot but it will make sense.
I’m currently getting my masters in CLS and will be taking the BOC test next year. Do you think your schooling prepared you enough to take the test? Love your videos and excited for you to share your journey! 💜
Im not the video creator but my school definetley did not, but in the clinical expierence, everyone said I was the most promising student and knew my stuf like crazy well, so I have no idea what happened, I do know my stuff but I do have issues with reading a question thoroughly andmaking mistakes due to not thoroughly reading the question and going too fast.
@@ashleyashleym2969 thanks for your response! i'll definitely keep that in mind. i start my clinicals next month and I'm hoping that will help me learn all the information better
Yes a fellow CLS with a master’s degree soon like me. Welcome to the club.
congratulations!
Hello, colleagues! I recently passed ASCP in chemistry. It was difficult! I have a question. Can I work with this certificate as a general MLS or only chemistry department?So, I should apply to general MLS?
I'm really not sure here. The best thing is to contact ASCP directly and speak to an advisor. I'm assuming that it should be ok, as you will need training anyways, whichever dept you start working in. Congrats on getting a pass on the Boards...
What do materials for studying have you used? Reading BOC was a huge help. Try it. Goodluck
I didn't like that book, it didn't help me very much
Hello guys!
I have finished in 2019, can I apply for route 1?! I have been working for a unaccredited lab all this time 🤦🏻♀️
+ my academic training program was only for 2 months 🙂
Please tell me I have the chance to get the ASCP. I've been studying since March this year 💔
You can apply once you satisfy the applicable route. You will have to show that you have successfully acquired your degree, plus completed the required hours of rotation before you will be given the ok. The routes have been modified recently, so check out the ASCP website for more details
I agree with the comment down below :)
Y'all are making me nervous. I am an alternate tech, which means I didn't go through a formal program. I'm alternate route 4, and am applying to sit now. I just celebrated 5 years in the field. I'm thankful becase based on my exam simulator I am actually ahead of the majority of our peers in blood banking, but in micro I am CRAZY behind.
Don’t worry you have lots of experience I’m sure you will do great! Let us know how your test goes and how you studied for it 🙂
I was in the same boat with you as far as microbiology. The class I took had a new instructor and wasn't super helpful so I used the Clinical Laboratory Science Review by Patsy Jarreau and Wordsology basically for my microbiology study guide. I have to say memorizing the charts in Wordsology really helped. The Clin Review book helped with studying parasites and fungi. I wish you luck!!
I worked for 15 years as a MLT and didn’t study for the MLS exam. If you want to pass with no experience, learn the content. There are no hints or cheat codes. I learned in-depth path and phys as a MLT and always tried to find out why something does what it does.
You're right. I felt like I could not learn everything and retain the information.
It's literally impossible to retain every material from all areas.
For this exam pure memory is not going to get us far, we have to understand the concepts. Practice case studies will be a tremendous help to all who wish to pass the exam. Using study tools like books widely used by all us med techs and cards like the Polanski cards and the book by Patsy and the BOC book LabCE all these help. Good luck to all those who have yet to take the exam!!!
How were you able to get that job without the MLS certification?
They did not require it. Some labs that are not hospital labs do not.
Am an Indian doctor completed MBBS MD Microbiology. Wanted to take ASCP exam. If I pass the exam can I work in USA laboratories ? Without doing USMLE ?
Hello, I am uncertain about the requirements for medical doctors who are not from the United States. I would contact ASCP for further assistance.
Hello...I basically from Gujarat, india I have completed diploma in medical laboratory technician course...my husband live in usa I will shift there....how can I get a license about lab technician..please guide me what can I do
Not sure , but you can gather alot of info from the ASCP website. I think they have a section regarding international certification. Check it out...
Please check the ASCP website, the most up to date information will be shown there :)
can you post a video of passing the MLS ascp exam and the scores i currently in school and struggling in all areas
I haven’t passed it so I can’t give advice on it yet :(
@@RosaPerez you can try the AMT exam. I think it is not standarized. You can practice with the simulation exam in labCE but you need to get like 80 % in that exam to have more chances in the real exam.
Micro was the worst for me! Gotta say though, that board exam is tough! ...but remember, if it was easy everyone would do it!
You’re right about that! Micro is TOUGH!
@Tiny Learner Honestly the best advice is to reach out to ASCP and get your ascpi. They can direct you on the "how's".
Am finding these conversations so helpful, it has helped me change strategies, now downloaded the clinical laboratory review.
I felt scared to fail, and I was about to cancel the exam scheduled on 4 th October 2022 because I feel am not yet prepared.
But let me continue 😉 the preparation 🙂
Put in time to review questions and find a way to study the materials( I've included the books I had used in an earlier post). It's understandable that ppl will panic, I did..lol...good luck and don't stress!
This is the best book.. to me, a bottom line is good for all the charts and memorization stuff, but Success is much better. Everyone that used that book in my class, passed.
Did you pass?
Hi! Did you end up passing the exam?!
I didnt pass my first one, I was 35 weeks pregnant when I took it, its bee over a year and Im studying again and being far more thorough this time, tons of flashcards!
I hope you pass the second time Ashley 😊Which flash cards are you using?
Try ur best next time sister♥️
Thank you!
Hi,Where do you work? Which is better working in hospitals ,clinic,nrl,or research? 😊
Hi Jacky! I used to work at a small hospital laboratory. I currently work at an oncology research laboratory. Both are VERY different environments. I think it depends on the person. In research, we have no interaction with other healthcare workers. We have more things we have to do in regards to documentation, we work with excel, I process tissues, blood samples. We store and ship them out for further testing if needed. Our pathologists look at the histology slides. In the hospital there is a quick turnaround and it is definitely more fast paced! I personally think I like research a little more as it is not as urgent and I work with great people in a nice laboratory/office setting.
@@RosaPerez hey girl, do you know if it's possible to work at a research as a MLT?
what is your state licensure?
Can you elaborate more please?
Girl we have the same experience. I failed my first exam too. You thought you didt it! But then indeed up failed. I'm still trying to retake my second exam this year hopefully.
Hi there! Have you taken the exam?
@@RosaPerez I will share my recent experience and hints,etc about the ASCP on your channel. Also, you are an honest person to say you failed, others will be embarrassed or shy away from saying they failed.
Hey, let me know if anything you study helped you to pass your ASCP exam. I failed 2 times. I have no idea what to study. I studied Medialab CE and the BOC boo, but I failed.
Hey Rosa love the vid! I’m currently an uncertified MLT taking the exam soon, I know you said you had to know the reference ranges for chemistry do you have to know them for the rest of the areas as well? I’m also bad at remembering them so I was curious about this😅
Thank you so much Dennise! You also need to know them for Hematology. As for other areas I don't remember but it does say on the ASCP website what areas to focus on for the exam so I would definitely take a look at that. :)
I feel your pain I am SO BAD at remembering reference ranges myself :(
What did you use to study?
LabCE and the ASCP BOC 5th edition
have you passed yet? (: need any help?
How long you had to wait to retake it
Three months
Do you know if you need a 400 in each category or just 400 overall? And if there is waiting time in between each attempt I’ve heard mixed things.
You need a minimum of 400 points to pass, overall. If you meant category as in different areas(like chem, micro, etc), then it's 400 overall. If you failed, you have to wait approximately 3 mths before you can re take exam, but with covid, it can be a longer wait, as they have alot of restrictions. Once they approve you to retake the exam, usually you have up to 3 mths, because of the ongoing pandemic, I had close to 6 mths before I can rewrite it.
@@rauldeejay204 I think it’s a case by case. Me and my classmates are taking the technician exam and one failed like me and was able to reschedule by a month later. Depending on how you scheduled your exam will determine what range of dates you get.
Why you do not try with AMT?
I did not consider it thank you
was it harder than labce or easier
It was definitely harder for me.
No problem, Try for next time
Yes thank you :)
I just passed the exam last weekend and would like to share my experience. It was the third time that I took it.
The first time, I took it 4 months after graduating and I did not study at all besides doing LabCE. I was basically memorizing the questions and it stressed me out not knowing enough for the exam.
The second time, I also did LabCE, along with reading the Clinical Laboratory Science Review: A Bottom Line Approach book, doing some of the BOC review book (I used very little, like 10%), and the Harr book too.
Both the first and second time, I spent months studying BUT not really STUDYING, I was just reading and doing practice questions without really investing in understanding the concept. Also, during the exam, I was doubting myself too much. I read each question like literally 50 times before moving on. So I didn't have much time left at the end to review. I did score better the second time tho.
The last time, I spend 1 week reading Clinical Laboratory Science Review: A Bottom Line Approach ONLY! I read it over and over, WORD BY WORD. I wrote down notes, and tables, and outlined the material in a way that flow better for my understanding. I studied each subject a day and spent the last day reviewing my notes. I pretty much studied for 12 hours each day during that week. I gained so much weight and looked like a bum that week lol
During the exam this time, I read the question, each word, slowly and carefully. I only read it 2-3 times at most. Then read the options and picked one and move on. I had so much time left at the end so I went back to check the answers. I changed 2 questions BUT I know for sure that I was wrong and I had to change the answers. Otherwise DON'T CHANGE ANYTHING! There were a lot of questions that I didn't understand but I went with my gut and pick the one that sound most familiar to me or the one that makes the most sense.
After reviewing I still had like 30 minutes left but I submitted it anyway because knowing myself I would probably go back and mess up :)) I was such a huge relief when I saw the word PASS. I did not believe my eyes and had to look again and again and again hahaha I even spelled out each letter. I cried in the exam room too :)) Until this day I still can't believe that I made it.
So to anyone that is about to take the exam...... study the hell out of the Clinical Laboratory Science Review: A Bottom Line Approach book. Memorize every little detail, all the boxes, and test alert. Relax and good luck!!
Thanks for sharing your experience. I did share mine, as I wanted to motivate others. I actually cried when I saw that I passed! It was my 2nd attempt, but it was a good feeling. Congrats, and to all: DON'T GIVE UP!!!
thank you for sharing your experience, i will be getting that text book
You relaxed me much 🙂🙂🙂
please the clinical laboratory science review is it the same as medical laboratory science review
@@dominicadarkwa5231 No, they are two different books. I used them both and the one I highly suggested is called Clinical Laboratory Science Review: A Bottom Line Approach by Angela B. Foley and Betty L. Theriot. The book cover is purple and yellow.
I failed in second year of my MLS program because I got pregnant. I'm taking a year off then going back to try again. I'm currently studying and working as a lab assistant in the meantime
thats okay. you will achieve your goal. take life at your own pace
So how long was the exam.for how many questions ..??
100 questions, 150 mins
100 questions and 150 minutes
Thank you!!
??? Ummm sorry to ruin the mood but... are we still allowed to put "MLS" next our names if we didn't pass the board exams?
I don’t think so
Actually mls yes but not ASCP
MLS and SM certified here. I can honestly say there's no good way of studying...best advice is to just memorize facts and details, then you can deduce for the correct answer. I found the BOC study guide helpful.
Thanks for sharing! I agree I feel the exam is so broad its hard to say.
Hi What BOC book edition did you use?
@@kinwin1775 I graduated back in 2010! so the BOC I used was pretty old...think it was 5th edition. Yup, come to think of it I've been a tech for 12 years...Been a lead for the past 4.
Okay. Thank you! I’m trying to find any materials that would help.
@@erinhwang6389 hi have you studied the Questions and Answers review books only? Or did you go through the basics or fundamentals?
Why MLS students change answer of that practical exam because two answers could be correct and one of the answers in fact is best answer than other correct answer and they should pass the exam
I think that’s definitely true but if you don’t have a good knowledge base you weren’t gonna be able to pass
Hello
Do you pay any fee for a repeat of exams?
Yes, you pay each time you take it, retake or not.
yes
Yes
Is ascp test mandatory to become a MLS OR CLS
You have to take the ASCP boards in order for you to get your liscence to practice.
Correct!!
I used labCE for both MLT and MLS ASCP exams. It’s about $70 for a year subscription. I think it’s got good practice exam. I took the exam right away after graduated from MLT program. Took me about a month to prepare for MLS exam. I have a bachelor's in something else and had to work for 2 years to sit for MLS exam. Hope this help for someone who taking the exam soon. Good luck!!
Thank you for the advice :)
I used labce but it didn’t help me that much :/
Hi PtoonC, I'm planning to take the same route. Is there a way to contact you, I would love to know how to get all clinical documents prepared for MLS exam application. Thanks in advance.
I practiced Media -lab CE, but I didn't see a single questions from those questions that I used to practiced when I took my ASCP exam. I studied the BOC book again I didn't come up any single questions when I took my second ASCP exam. Now, I am studying Medical laboratory science review 5th edition. I hope this help me for the third time.
I failed twice.
Failed the 3rd and so the 4th.
Last year I took the exam.... And i passed.
What made you pass?
Rosa Perez Luck i guess. I have bought all good ratings ascp quizzes, books,ebooks read them for almost a year and by that i guess even Trump can’t even stop me entering/working in US.
@@edwardmakabling418 wow congrats. I should say that was a tough path you've went through. What books had helped you much on your last try ?
Did you ever pass? I failed the first time my blood bank and lab operations were high must have thrown the entire test off.
I’ve taken it twice so far and I have not passed and that was the same thing that happened to me my blood bank score was very high as well for both times I took the test
@@RosaPerez Are you doing a 3rd try? I'm doing my 2nd in February im going to focus more on chem and micro
Hi Rosa, you have up to 5 attempts. Like I said in comment section earlier, I will put info here for everyone, that I think might be helpful...its a crazy exam, and time can run out with you..
We got the same score! I did the worst at Lab Operations...thought I'd ace that haha I was a assistant for a year.
The exam was SO difficult!! :( have you retaken it yet?
I am going through a career change and I already have my bachelor's degree. Any tips into starting a career as an MLT? Any comments are helpful.
At my job, because of the pandemic, ppl with a Bachelors degree in a Science area ( not medical lab) were given a permit to practice as a MLT, until they can study and take the BOC exam. Usually, you have to be in a medical lab program to practice as a tech. Science degree majors use to be given a waiver to practice as a tech way back, but the policy changed. Now in the pandemic, certain labs are allowing it.. Good luck!!!
@@rauldeejay204 I majored in Political Science and Psychology. I wanted to be in HR for healthcare, but yeah possibly doing a complete career change. I am finishing up my associate as well.
@@laurenc4085 if you call ascp, they have a friendly customer care, who can guide you thru
@@rauldeejay204 Thank you!
@@laurenc4085 welcome...
Gracias x Compartir
😊
I just failed my exam today. Need some encouragement. I wish I would of known the break down of the exam. I did not study most of what was on there exam so I’m curious to see my actual score, smh..
I am so sorry. Just as a form of encouragement, I'm here for you. You can do it. I failed on 1st attempt, and passed on 2nd. You have up to 5 attempts. Some find it easy, some, like me, tricky. Check ASCP website and they will post your score and breakdown. 400 is needed, but its not that easy, so I encourage you to review your weak areas, and study the books I had mentioned. Good luck on your next attempt. Please don't be discourage!! You can do this!!!
@@rauldeejay204 yes, I got my score back and it was a 361. I scored the highest in hem and lab op.. I’m memorizing the bottom line..😊
@@Lovely-nd8ts you will pass on 2nd attempt, just like me. Don't stress....
@@rauldeejay204 thank you, God be with you and continue to bless you..
@@Lovely-nd8ts thanks. Be blessed also...
Is this exam is online or offline???
It’s online
I have some advise regarding the ASCP Exam. Will share soon!
Thank you for your advice :)
You are very much welcome! I want you to pass it my friend!!
Any one can help me for preparation materials In M(Ascpi) microbiology
Hi, not sure exactly what this exam entails.
@@RosaPerez can you share me your contact no..then I will try share the enlist
I thankfully I passed on my first try! 😮💨 I used LabCE/BOC exam simulators that were provided to me by my school program. I will say some questions from both simulators do show up on the actual boc exam but very little of them! To which I will say, do NOT depend on these two as your only method of studying for the exam. I used these simulators throughout the whole year! I took DAILY randomized quizzes on both alternating between the two. LabCe has better explanations for each of their answer choices but the difficulty level for some of their questions seems off. Personally I didn't think some of the questions they marked as level 9 difficulty was at all that hard and vice versa. Boc simulator gives you two types of simulators, one where you can set a number of questions to quiz yourself on but not by topic. You can also use it to do full on mock 100 questions exams. They do not give explanations on what the answer is for some questions so you will have to do that on your own. By the end of my program I had reached an average 65-75% correct on each on! I gave myself three weeks after my program ended to study for the boc focusing on the heavier topics (heme, blood bank, micro, chem). If I could go back I wouldn't have quizzed my self too much (although it did help with active recall) but should of definitely started reading Patsy's bottom line approach from the beginning and implemented the Polansky cards in my studying earlier and not until the end. I got too comfortable just taking quizzes without actually engaging with the material and making sure I proper learned it. I bought success in the lab new version but never used it. I was also given the boc 6th Ed but found it to have the same exam questions as the boc simulator so I didn't really use it at all. I passed with a decent score but not high enough for my taste and the amount of time i spent on the simulators.🥴🥴🥴 but a pass is a pass so yeah!
Thank you so much for the advice! So glad you were able to pass!
How to apply for retaker pls
Just select a date after ASCP get back to you for your 2nd eligibility attempt. Everything will be in your account on ASCP website in your profile...
Same as the first time you scheduled it. Best of luck!
You get 5 attempts with whatever route you selected to take the exam if those get exhausted then you will have to take it using a different route.
The route that you chose likely is the ONLY route that you can select ( although there are more routes) to sit the ASCP boards. You have 5 attempts per route. If say you screw up on all 5 attempts for a specific route, to start over again with another route might be difficult, as the remaining routes you might not be eligible for, meaning you may not have for example military experience, or 5 years experience in the lab. Check ASCP MLS routes for a better understanding. Route 3 will be discontinued from Jan 2023, for anyone sitting the ASCP MLS Boards, according to their website, same I think for anyone sitting the MLT Boards too, limiting you to ONE less route. Most applicants can comfortably do ONE route, so prepare to pass under that route, not exceeding 5 attempts, if not, it's almost impossible to satisfy another route. When I took the ASCP Boards, I passed after the 2nd attempt, under one route. The remaining routes I wasn't "qualified" under, so I COULDN'T select any other route. This girl at my job had the lab given her a limited permit, twice. She keep screwing up on the boards, and max out all 5 attempts under one route, and had to leave the job, as she couldn't fit in another route to retake the Boards. Hope this is clear info. My aim is to share my knowledge ...
Everything you said is in good depth, I was not going to go that deep, everyone should know the ASCP is not easy, if you exhaust all attempts then you won’t be able to work as a technologist or technician. So yes, best be very prepared and ready than to fail it over and over again.
wait don’t MLS workers make like 60k a year
Depends on location/hospital. Big name hospitals in SoCal pay $40-50 for CLS I and increases after that with experience.
I make 75$ as a new grad in Oregon
how the same education as pharmacist qualifies you to become medical laboratory scientist?
A pharmacist goes thru more detailed studies, plus internship, and their salary, as expected, is very high, compared to technologists. At least I know this is so for the US. A MLS will however need clinical rotation in a lab, after completion of their Bachelors, plus be able to pass the Boards, then get the specific state license, like NYS license. A pharmacist is more informed about medication, whilst a tech is more learned about tests done in a clinical lab, QC, etc.
@rauldeejay204 explained this very well. They are different educational routes. I just worked as a pharmacy technician while finishing school for MLS.
@@rauldeejay204 thank you, God bless you
@@RosaPerez thank you, God bless you
@@omarosama8934 you’re welcome
Were you able to repeat the exam and if yes how was the experience this 2nd time around?
For me, I passed on 2nd attempt. You have 5 attempts..
Hi, I will make a video soon talking about where I am right now in my life :)
I decided to take the AMT MT exam after failing the ASCP. Passed the AMT on my first attempt. There were 230 questions, 3.5 hours to take it. It was easier than the ASCP. No trick questions.
What material did you study for the AMT?
I’m glad you were able to take the AMT MT exam and passed! How many times did you take the ASCP exam?
@@RosaPerez took ASCP 2x failed both times. But my score improved. I did not study either time, I took the ASCP without any preparation. I wasn’t planning on doing that but that’s what ended up happening.
@@luciem4562 that’s OK I studied a little bit for both of my exams but I definitely did not study as much as I should’ve. I thought it was going to be a lot easier than it actually was. How is your job going for you? And what section of the lab are you working in?
@@RosaPerez I a generalist at a reference lab. I am trained in chemistry, hematology, microbiology, urinalysis, body fluids. The job is going really well. I’m am not trained in blood bank yet and I’m not looking forward to learning it.
I miss your videos!
Oh thank you so much! I’m actually going to make a video on why I haven’t been posting. I will be returning to making CZcams videos very shortly :)