FAQ Embryology Certification

Q: If someone has completed the Certificate and Diploma in Clinical Embryology in the UK, organised by the Institute of Biology and ACE does that count as an accreditation, as these qualifications involve a logbook, essays, and exams.

A: The ESHRE certification is a complement to the ACE certification, but one does not replace the other.

Q: May I ask please if MD holders practicing embryology for many years can apply for the degree of senior embryology? It is very important for us.

A: Sure, MD is regarded as equivalent to MSc/PhD regarding the academic qualification for becoming a senior clinical embryologist. You must however document that you have the necessary practical and supervising experience and pass the theoretical examination (2 hours multiple choice examination 2/3 correct out of 100 questions)in order to be certified

Q: Who can be referee? It is better than they were clinicians than embryologist?

A: In principle anyone who can testify that it is highly likely that the candidate has a relevant and sufficient practical experience. Preferably an ESHRE certified embryologist.

Q: I would like to know who would be the referees that they will value candidates.

A. The certification process will be managed by an ESHRE working group comprised of representatives from ESHRE and the collaborating embryology organisations

Q: I do not have a doctorate degree but I have a master on something-that-it-seems-be-relevant. Does it serve to apply?

A: The certification process will be managed by an ESHRE working group comprised of representatives from ESHRE and the collaborating embryology organisations. This group will have to decide what type of exams/degrees may be considered as relevant.

Q: Now that the applications have to be submitted online, do I still need to send hard copies of my logbook and my medical qualifications?

A: No, hard copies of your logbook and medical degrees are not necessary. You only need a supervisor or head of laboratory or clinic who, by signing the “submission form”, certifies that your statements are valid/true.

Q: The head of my clinic is not an embryologist and has no experience in clinical embryology. Can he sign my application?

A: It does not necessarily have to be someone with IVF lab experience, but it has to be someone who guarantees that you have actually done what is in your logbook and your CV.

Q: If I pass the exam for clinical embryologist, do I have to take another exam in a few years to be certified as a senior clinical embryologist?

A: Yes, you do.