Our candidate/application and renewal database will be down for scheduled maintenance on Monday, September 14, from 1:00PM MST until 7:00PM MST. Please plan to access it before or after. Thank you for your patience!

Preparing for the CSFA® Exam

The Certified Surgical First Assistant® exam evaluates the core knowledge and practical skills expected of entry-level surgical first assistants across all specialties.

It requires more than last-minute study — success comes from thoughtful, individualized preparation.

NBSTSA does not endorse or recommend any specific study materials, classes, books, or apps — including its own. The tools below are optional and do not guarantee a passing score.

How to Prepare

Use our step-by-step guide to prepare for the Certified Surgical First Assistant® exam along with our optional, yet helpful study tools.

1. Review the Exam Content Outline

2. Use the Official Reference List

3. Study Broadly

4. Understand the Passing Score

5. Schedule Early

6. Know the Test Center

7. Remember Your ID

NBSTSA

Helpful Study Tools

Self-Evaluation Tool

Identify your strengths and weaknesses with our CSFA® Study Evaluation. This self-assessment helps guide your preparation.

Download Evaluation Tool

CSFA® Practice Exams

Practice exams simulate the real testing environment and provide feedback on your performance. There are two versions available (Form A and Form B) and these do not contain live exam questions. The cost to take the practice exam is $40 each.

Take a Practice Exam