Certified Surgical Technologists (CST) Exam Prep
About Course
Whether you are weeks away from your exam or just beginning to map out your study plan, this course was designed for you. Coy Academy’s CST Exam Prep distills the full NBSTSA content blueprint into focused, easy-to-follow modules — stripping away filler and zeroing in on what the exam actually tests. You will build fluency in surgical technology fundamentals, deepen your clinical reasoning, and sharpen your ability to interpret the scenario-based questions that trip up so many first-time test-takers.
Why Coy Academy?
Only $99
A fraction of the cost of national review seminars — same rigorous content, no inflated price tag.
Lifetime Access
No subscription ticking down. Study on your schedule, revisit modules anytime, even after your exam.
Visual Learning
Surgical instrumentation charts, anatomy tables, and procedure visuals that make complex concepts click.
Expert Instructor
Direct access to a certified instructor to work through difficult procedures and technical concepts.
2026 Exam & Eligibility Overview
The CST exam consists of 175 questions, of which 150 are scored. Per the 2026 NBSTSA content blueprint, candidates need a minimum of 102 correct answers among the scored items to pass. Eligibility requires graduation from a program accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES, or completion of a qualifying military surgical technology program.
| Candidate Type | 2026 Exam Fee |
|---|---|
| AST Members | $230 |
| Non-Members | $340 |
Recommended Study Resources — 2026 Editions
The NBSTSA draws exam questions directly from these core references. Using the current editions gives you the best alignment with tested material. Each title below is linked to its most recent edition:
- Alexander’s Care of the Patient in Surgery — 17th Edition, Jane C. Rothrock
- Surgical Technology: Principles and Practice — 8th Edition, Joanna Kotcher
- Surgical Technology for the Surgical Technologist: A Positive Care Approach — 6th Edition, Association of Surgical Technologists
- Principles of Anatomy and Physiology — 16th Edition, Tortora & Derrickson
- Pharmacology for the Surgical Technologist — 6th Edition, Howe & Burton
- Surgical Instrumentation: An Interactive Approach — 4th Edition, Nemitz
Comprehensive 11-Module Curriculum
| Focus Area | Key Learning Topics |
|---|---|
| Surgical Foundations | Basic Sciences, OR Environment, & Sterile Processing |
| Clinical Phases | Preoperative, Intraoperative, and Postoperative Patient Care |
| Specialty Procedures | Surgical Specialties, Instruments & Equipment, Advanced Techniques |
| Advanced Practice & Administration | OR Administration, Ancillary Duties & Comprehensive Exam Review |
Eligibility Reminder: The CST exam is primarily available to graduates of a CAAHEP- or ABHES-accredited Surgical Technology program, individuals previously certified as a CST, or graduates of a qualifying military surgical technology program.
Ready to Earn Your CST?
Join Coy Academy’s exam prep course for just $99 — with lifetime access and expert support included.
Course Content
Module 1: Introduction to Surgical Technology
Module 2: Basic Sciences for Surgical Technologists
Module 3: Operating Room Environment and Preparation
Student Ratings & Reviews
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