The MLT test is a certification offered by the American Medical Technologists (AMT) association and the ASCP Certification Board, and it is administered by schools and also by Pearson VUE. Earning your MLT certification demonstrates your dedication, professionalism and preparation as a medical laboratory technician.
We’ve developed this article to give you more background information and help you prepare to sit for the Medical Laboratory Technician (ASCP) exam. You’ll learn what the exam will cover, plus other information around test logistics as you work toward MLT exam success.
Start Test
MLT Study Guide
MLT Flashcards
MLT Exam Eligibility
There are four accepted routes of eligibility, one of which you’ll need to complete to sit for the MLT exam.
Route 1: Education – An associate degree from an accredited institution or program (by a recognized regional or national accreditation agency) in medical laboratory technology.
Route 2: Alternate Education – Must complete two years or more (60 semester hours) of courses in a regionally or nationally accredited institution, including a minimum of 25 semester hours in clinical laboratory science such as biological or chemical studies, math and/or computer science (note that no more than 6 hours of math and/or computer science can count toward the 25-hour requirement). Must also complete at least 6 months of approved clinical laboratory experience including rotation through the blood banking, microbiology, chemistry and hematology areas of the laboratory.
Route 3: Military – Must finish a 50-week U.S. military medical laboratory training program, and those credits must have either been earned in or accepted for transfer by an accredited college or university.
Route 4: Other Recognized Exam – If taking this route for eligibility, you must pass a generalist MLT exam from another certification body or state licensing agency, provided that the other exam is approved by the AMT Board of Directors. Also, your state license or certification must be active. In addition, you’ll need to document that you’ve been part of an education program within the past year, or that you’ve been employed (within the past five years). No exam is needed.
Check Out Mometrix's MLT Study Guide
Get practice questions, video tutorials, and detailed study lessons
Get Your Study Guide
Application Details
Application for the MLT exam is completed online. Once you register, your application will remain in effect for one year. After that time, if you haven’t taken the exam, you’ll need to pay a new exam fee.
Costs/Payment Options
The MLT testing fee is $175 and includes your application, your exam and your first annual fee. The fee is non-refundable and can be paid using a credit card or debit card only.
Times/Locations
In some cases, the MLT exam may be available at your school. In that case, your faculty will be able to provide you with details for times and specific locations. If you aren’t sitting for the exam at your school, you may choose to take the exam at a Pearson VUE testing center. Once you apply, you’ll be sent an official AMT letter with next steps on scheduling your testing time and location. Note: Please plan to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled exam time.
Test Duration
The MLT exam is scheduled to take two and a half hours.
What to Bring
- Two forms of matching identification (both IDs must have the same name), showing your name, signature and at least one of the IDs showing your photo (including IDs such as a passport, a driver’s license, state ID, or military ID). Other types of IDs, including FOID, firearms, benefits, or concealed carry cards are not valid forms of ID for the MLT exam.
- Your authorization letter
What Not to Bring
In general, avoid bringing any personal items with you.
Format and Number of Questions
The MLT exam is computer-based. The test consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. Each question will have one correct answer. The exam uses computer adaptive testing (CAT), which means the test will adapt to your level of knowledge as you make your way through the exam. What this means is that each time you correctly answer a question, the computer will select the next question that is relatively a little more complex. This approach continues until you answer incorrectly. At that point, the computer will select a relatively easier question for you to answer.
Subtest Categories
The MLT exam covers a variety of Medical Laboratory Science subtest content areas, including Urinalysis and Other Body Fluids, Blood Banking, Chemistry, Hematology, Immunology, Microbiology and Laboratory Operations.
- Blood Bank (15 to 20%) – Covers blood group systems, antibody identification and screening, DAT, crossmatching, elution/adsorption, blood donation, transfusion therapy and reactions, HDFN, phenotyping/genotyping, antibody titer and pre-warming technique.
- Urinalysis and Other Body Fluids (5 to 10%) – Assesses chemical, physical and microscopic urinalysis and body fluid analysis.
Check Out Mometrix's MLT Flashcards
Get complex subjects broken down into easily understandable concepts
- Chemistry (20 to 25%) – Covers acid base, electrolytes, carbohydrates, proteins and other nitrogen-containing compounds, enzymes, lipids and lipoproteins, tumor parkers, endocrinology, toxicology and TDM.
- Hematology (20 to 25%) – Assesses knowledge on leukocytes, erythrocytes, reticulocyte counts, RBC/WBC, ESR, morphology and differentials, hemostasis and platelets.
- Immunology (5 to 10%) – Covers immune responses, immune system immunology, autoimmunity, and immunology of microbial and viral diseases.
- Microbiology (15 to 20%) – Includes a review of topics such as general microbiology, aerobic gram-positive cocci, gram-negative cocci, gram-positive bacilli, fungus, anaerobes, mycobacteria, viruses and parasites.
- Laboratory Operations (5 to 10%) – Review knowledge of quality assessment and troubleshooting processes, laboratory mathematics, lab information systems, instrumentation and safety protocols.
Calculating Your Passing Score
As soon as you complete your MLT exam, you’ll get immediate notification of your score and whether you passed. If you pass, you’ll receive an official certificate and card by mail within two weeks. As a special note, keep in mind that even if you receive a passing score, you won’t be officially certified until you physically receive your official documents in the mail from AMT.
MLT Study Guide
Mometrix Academy is a completely free MLT certification resource provided by Mometrix Test Preparation. If you find benefit from our efforts here, check out our premium quality MLT study guide to take your studying to the next level. Just click the MLT study guide link below. Your purchase also helps us make even more great, free content for test-takers.
Upgrade your studying with our MLT study guide and flashcards:
MLT Study Guide
MLT Flashcards
MLT Study Guide Customer Success Stories
Our customers love the tutorial videos from Mometrix Academy that we have incorporated into our MLT study guide. The MLT study guide reviews below are examples of customer experiences.
This book is not a shortcut to make up for a lack of knowledge or a copy of the actual test, it is a well-written book that is extremely helpful when preparing for the MLT test. It gives a good idea of what to expect and when you remove guesswork it is extremely helpful.
MLT Study Guide – Steven
I like the practice questions with all the explanations. The tips about taking the exam are very useful as well, this way I feel more confident about what to expect the day of taking the exam.
MLT Study Guide – Alba
What I have read of the book has been really good. There is so much information that you learn In school it is hard to prioritize which is the most important.
MLT Study Guide – Kari
This exam review must be included in your preparation for the state exam. It covers very thoroughly all areas of the test.
MLT Study Guide – Customer
I am very happy with this Study Guide. The guide was to the point, telling you the information that you need to know. This study guide is good to use as an overview of the things that you do know, as well as, a good base of information for the things that you don't know.
MLT Study Guide – Sabrina
I have been very impressed with the in-depth, yet shortness of truly what I need to know for my examination. I like how it’s not too much on one page. So many study items that I have purchased have so much crammed with very lengthy sentences whereas this is as simple as it comes. Thank you for an awesome study tool.
MLT Study Guide – Kayla
The book seems to cover all the family theorists and contains really good information. I feel more comfortable having this book.
MLT Study Guide – Bella
This book is great! It breaks down subjects that I was struggling on. My friend recommended the book and she passed her boards!
MLT Study Guide – Antonio
This study guide has been very helpful especially because it is concise and to the point rather than having a massive study guide that I have to spend hours sifting thoroughly to extract the key points.
MLT Study Guide – Mae
Mometrix Academy – Home
FAQs
What is the highest score on the ASCP MLT exam? ›
The medical lab technician certification exam is graded on a 999-point scale, with 400 being a passing score.
Which country is best for MLT? ›- Laboratory Science in USA.
- Laboratory Science in New Zealand.
- Laboratory Science in Canada.
- Laboratory Science in Lebanon.
- Laboratory Science in Malaysia.
- Laboratory Science in Australia.
EXAMINATION MODEL
The MLS(ASCP) and MLS(ASCPi) certification examination is composed of 100 questions given in a 2 hour 30 minute time frame. All exam questions are multiple-choice with one best answer. The certification exam is administered using the format of computer adaptive testing (CAT).
If you meant to ask what are the best courses after completing B.Sc MLT then below are a few options: Master of Science (M.Sc) in Medical Lab Technology. Master of Science (M.Sc) in Nuclear Medicine Technology. Master of Science (M.Sc) in Medical Imaging Technology.
What happens if you fail ASCP exam? ›If you fail to pass the ASCP exam, you can apply to retake it. You will have to pay a new application fee to do so, and you can do this up to five times per eligibility route for most ASCP exams.
How do I pass the ASCP exam? ›- Talk to your peers. To help study for your ASCP exam, talk to people who have been through it before.
- Take care of yourself. In addition to studying, you can prepare for the exam by caring for your own physical and mental wellbeing. ...
- Familiarize yourself with the testing location.
40,000 - 55,000 PA.
Is MLT a good career? ›As an MLT professional, you have the leeway to work at flexible hours & at your suitable shift. And, your career will be highly lucrative as well as less intimidating, since you won't be interacting with patients directly.
Is ASCP difficult? ›ASCP BOC exams are difficult, so it may be wise to consider purchasing test prep resources and/or workbooks. These not only guide the candidate through the specific knowledge and skills that are the focus of their specific exam, but also often provide sample questions and tests that are invaluable practice.
How do you know if you passed the ASCP exam? ›ASCP exams are scored from 0-999, with 400 generally being a passing score. You will get an unofficial pass/fail result at the testing center once you've finished your exam. Your official score report will be available to you within four business days.
How many questions is the MLT exam? ›
The MLT(ASCP) and MLT(ASCPi) certification examination is composed of 100 questions given in a 2 hour 30 minute time frame. All exam questions are multiple-choice with one best answer. The certification exam is administered using the format of computer adaptive testing (CAT).
Is studying MLT easy? ›A career in medical laboratory technology is one of the most challenging and satisfying careers. A decision to opt for this program will enable you to work in the area of science all day long, running tests, analyzing results and more.
Is MLT course easy? ›Saying extremely easy is not good but DMLT course is kind of easy as compared to other courses. As it is mostly a practical based course but the theory is as important as praticals to know what you are doing in praticals and what can be the outcomes . The course goes in a 60-40 way 60% praticals and 40% pratical.
Is MLT is a doctor? ›Ans. Medical lab technicians are healthcare professionals who work with physicians, but they are not doctors. A medical technologist can become a doctor by enrolling in medical school and completing their education in their chosen field.
How many times can you take the MLS exam? ›Candidates who are unsuccessful at passing the exam may reapply. They may retake the exam up to five times under the same eligibility route.
How long is ASCP certification good for? ›Your certification is valid for a three year period. To maintain valid certification, completion of the Credential Maintenance Program (CMP) is required every three years.
Is ASCP accepted in other countries? ›ASCP stands for American Society for Clinical Pathologists. When you have this certificate, you virtually can practice clinical laboratory science anywhere in the country, along with other countries that accept ASCP certificates like Singapore and UAE.
What is the difference between ASCP and ASCPi? ›Let's take a closer look at how eligibility requirements for a specific ASCPi credential can differ from those for an equivalent ASCP credential. One of the key differences is that ASCPi certification tends to eliminate specific time and credit hour requirements as these may vary from country to country.
How do I study for MLS? ›HOW I STUDY | Medical Laboratory Science (6 tips for MLS/MLT Majors)
How much is the ASCP MLS exam? ›ASCP Exams and Costs
Each of these certification exams has its own associated fees and costs, ranging from just over $100 to over $500, although most average in the $200 range. Fees are nonrefundable and nontransferable and can be paid by credit card or check.
How much do lab techs make in Dubai? ›
An early career Lab Technologist with 1-4 years of experience earns an average total compensation (includes tips, bonus, and overtime pay) of AED 90,000 based on 8 salaries. A mid-career Lab Technologist with 5-9 years of experience earns an average total compensation of AED 86,000 based on 7 salaries.
How much a lab technician get paid in Dubai? ›| salary | Salary |
|---|---|
| High | 17,500 |
| Average | 11,000 |
| Low | 2,500 |
BSc MLT indeed is good in the longer run. You'll have a bachelor's degree instead of a diploma certification. Even if you want to pursue a PG degree you'll need a bachelor's degree.
Is MLT better than nursing? ›MLT is more towards technology field whereas Nursing is towards taking care of patients and required compassion, patience etc. Nursing and MLT holds a lot more scope. Both these courses are best in itself and you can pursue any of the course depending upon your area of interest and what you want to become.
Are medical lab scientists happy? ›At CareerExplorer, we conduct an ongoing survey with millions of people and ask them how satisfied they are with their careers. As it turns out, medical laboratory technologists rate their career happiness 2.8 out of 5 stars which puts them in the bottom 16% of careers.
Is medical laboratory science difficult? ›Very hard. BCIT is a tough grind. If you don't put in the hours, you may not make it. To give you an idea, we put in around 30 hours a week at school.
Can I do Phd in MLT? ›Ph. D. Medical Laboratory Technology is a doctoral level course. The full degree consists of three year and its syllabus is divide in six semesters of six month each.
Can I become a scientist after MLT? ›To become a medical laboratory scientist you fast type to pass your 10 + 2 level examination. Then you can go for a diploma course in MLT. but each and everyone should option out for BSC in MLT. after completing those you may find job in hospital research labs private laboratories of pharmaceutical companies also.
Is medical lab in demand? ›Job Outlook
Employment of clinical laboratory technologists and technicians is projected to grow 7 percent from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 25,600 openings for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
Upon completing the program and earning certification, MLTs are ready for entry-level work in laboratories in the private and public sectors. By comparison, medical lab scientists (MLS), also known as medical technologists (MT) or clinical lab scientists (CLS), have more education and more job responsibilities.
Is LabCE good for ASCP? ›
"LabCE was a valuable tool in preparation for my ASCP MLT exam. The different formats of test reviews that are offered gave me a good idea of the important concepts that need to be grasped in order to pass the exam. The practice exams, in conjunction with other study guides, are very helpful study tools.
What is the highest score on the ASCP PBT exam? ›To pass, candidates must score at least 400, which is the minimum passing score. The highest score is 999.
How long does it take to get BOC results? ›Scores will be reported on a scale from 200 to 800, and the minimum passing score for the exam is 500. Exam results are posted in the candidate's BOC profile within two-four weeks from the last day of the exam window.
Is ASCP accepted in Dubai? ›ASCP certification is accepted by all U.S. states and territories and the cities of Abu Dhabi and Dubai for licensure purposes, provided the individual meets all other licensure requirements.
How do I get my BOC exam results? ›How to check the BOC examinations result. Visit the official website. Click here for Official Website. Enter your ref number or hall ticket to download the results.
Why should I hire you answer for medical technologist? ›Sample Answer: I am the best candidate for this job because I have a strong work ethic and I am a fast learner. I also have a strong background in medical technology and I am prepared to learn new skills in my next position.
What does MLT ASCP stand for? ›“(ASCPi)” after the category initials for International certification as follows: Medical Laboratory Technician, MLT(ASCP) International Medical Laboratory Technician, MLT(ASCPi) TIME LIMITED CERTIFICATION.
What do I need to bring to the ASCP exam? ›...
The Day of the Exam
- The ID must be current (not expired)
- The ID must be government issued.
- The ID must contain a photograph and signature.
- The first and last name on the ID must match the name on the application.
However BSC in MLT is quite a good career choice. Candidates can work as Medical Laboratory Technician, Clinical Laboratory Technician, Phlebotomist, Clinical Laboratory Technologist, Medical Laboratory Technologist, Lab Technologist, Biochemist, Medical Phlebotomist etc. Job opportunities are quite good in this line.
Which degree is best for laboratory? ›Students typically prepare for a lab career with an associate or bachelor's degree in medical lab technology or medical laboratory science. However, other options are available, especially if you already have a degree in science.
Is MLT a good career in abroad? ›
B.Sc in MLT is a very relevant and diverse course, resulting in many job opportunities for fresh graduates abroad. Students can gain a certification course or higher education to make it easier for them to get a job abroad.
What is the benefit of lab technician? ›Things like salary and benefits, job growth and professional stability, and ample opportunities must already be in your mind when opting for Medical Lab Technician Course (MLT). After 12th Class, you will have a world of opportunities, a handsome salary, assured job growth and much more.
Can I write Dr After BMLT? ›No. You don't. I'm joking. Yes, in India BDS students get Dr prefix before their name, only after they are done with their graduation.
Which paramedical course has highest salary? ›- RELATED COURSES – BSc Nursing, Diploma in Nursing Care Assistant, M.Sc. in Community Health Nursing, M.Sc. in Obstetrics & Gynecology Nursing, M.Sc. in Psychiatric Nursing, M.Sc. in Child Health Nursing, M.Sc. in Pediatric Nursing.
- SALARY – Salary of a nurse is between 1.8 LPA and 8.7 LPA.
There is no doubt that working as a medical lab technician has unique stress; however, it is a job that makes a huge impact on people's lives and global public health.
How many types of MLT are there? ›One can do a certificate program (CMLT) which is of six-month duration. A diploma program (DMLT) which is of one-year duration. An advanced diploma program in medical lab technology (ADMLT) of two years. Bachelors in medical lab technology (BMLT) a 3-year program.
Which is the best course in MLT? ›If you meant to ask what are the best courses after completing B.Sc MLT then below are a few options: Master of Science (M.Sc) in Medical Lab Technology. Master of Science (M.Sc) in Nuclear Medicine Technology. Master of Science (M.Sc) in Medical Imaging Technology.
What is the highest score on the ASCP PBT exam? ›To pass, candidates must score at least 400, which is the minimum passing score. The highest score is 999.
How do you know if you passed the ASCP exam? ›ASCP exams are scored from 0-999, with 400 generally being a passing score. You will get an unofficial pass/fail result at the testing center once you've finished your exam. Your official score report will be available to you within four business days.
How is the BOC scored? ›Scores will be reported on a scale from 200 to 800, and the minimum passing score for the exam is 500. Exam results are posted in the candidate's BOC profile within two-four weeks from the last day of the exam window.
How is the HT exam scored? ›
Histotechnician Exam Scores
The questions on the HT exam are rated on a scale of 100-999. The higher a question is rated, the harder the question is (e.g., a question marked as 566 will be more difficult than a question marked 481). To pass the exam, your final question must be on or above the 400 mark.
The MLT(ASCP) and MLT(ASCPi) certification examination is composed of 100 questions given in a 2 hour 30 minute time frame. All exam questions are multiple-choice with one best answer. The certification exam is administered using the format of computer adaptive testing (CAT).
Is LabCE good for ASCP? ›"LabCE was a valuable tool in preparation for my ASCP MLT exam. The different formats of test reviews that are offered gave me a good idea of the important concepts that need to be grasped in order to pass the exam. The practice exams, in conjunction with other study guides, are very helpful study tools.
What does CM stand for in ASCP? ›Once a certification has expired, these individuals are no longer permitted to use the ASCP credential after their name. Individuals required to complete the Credential Maintenance Program (CMP) to maintain their certification are required. to use the initials “CM” in superscript following (ASCP) and (ASCPi).
Is ASCP exam difficult? ›ASCP BOC exams are difficult, so it may be wise to consider purchasing test prep resources and/or workbooks. These not only guide the candidate through the specific knowledge and skills that are the focus of their specific exam, but also often provide sample questions and tests that are invaluable practice.
How long is ASCP certification good for? ›Your certification is valid for a three year period. To maintain valid certification, completion of the Credential Maintenance Program (CMP) is required every three years.
Is ASCP accepted in other countries? ›ASCP stands for American Society for Clinical Pathologists. When you have this certificate, you virtually can practice clinical laboratory science anywhere in the country, along with other countries that accept ASCP certificates like Singapore and UAE.
What is the BOC pass rate? ›| Year | Number of Graduates | First Time Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 2017–18 | 17 | 88% |
| 2018-19 | 19 | 74% |
| 2019-20 | 24 | 83% |
| 2020-21 | 19 | 89% |
Candidates may retake the exam five times a year once in each window.
Is the BOC multiple-choice? ›The BOC offers self-assessment exams in Study and Test modes. Each self-assessment exam includes 80 questions that are representative of the question types on the BOC exam, including multiple-choice, multi-select, drag-and-drop, hot spot and focused testlets.
Is 240 a good reading score? ›
Although it is possible to score as high as 265 or more on the reading test and 285 or more on the math test, 240 (reading) and 250 (math) are typical top scores.
What is a 240 score? ›Test results are calculated as scaled scores in a range from 100 to 300, with a score of 240 representing the minimum passing score. If your total test scaled score is 240 or above, you have passed the test or subtest.
What is the difference between an HT and an HTL certification? ›HT vs HTL Certification - YouTube