ABC has completed a comprehensive update to the certification exams for Certified Prosthetic Assistants (CPA) and Certified Orthotic Assistants (COA) for 2026. This year-long effort included practice analysis, item development, form review and standard setting to help ensure the exams continue to reflect current assistant-level practice and support a fair, valid testing experience.

Key update milestones

• April 2025: Assistant practice analysis meeting at ABC.

• August 2025: Item-writing campaign to create new questions for the exams.

• October 2025: Review and approval of newly updated exam forms.

• February 2026: Standard setting activity to determine updated passing scores.

ABC extends sincere appreciation to the many volunteers and subject matter experts who contributed their time and expertise at each step of this important exam update process.