CDC Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP) Core Practice Test

The exam strongly emphasizes practical application. While a solid understanding of theoretical principles is necessary, questions are typically framed within the context of real-world field scenarios. You will be asked to interpret data, choose appropriate study designs, recommend public health actions, and identify the most effective communication strategies for specific situations.

Biostatistics and data interpretation are central to the exam and to field practice. You will need to understand key concepts like measures of association (e.g., relative risk, odds ratio), confidence intervals, p-values, and basic statistical tests. The focus is on interpreting these measures in the context of an investigation, not on performing complex calculations. A review of these fundamentals is highly recommended.

Utilize the official FETP Core competency framework and training materials as your primary guide. Structure your study plan to cover all listed domains, allocating more time to areas where you are less confident. Practice with scenario-based questions is invaluable. Forming a study group with peers to discuss cases can also enhance understanding and retention.

Pace yourself. With 118 questions, you have an average of just over a minute per question if the exam is timed conventionally. Read each question carefully but avoid getting stuck on any single item. Mark questions you are uncertain about and return to them if time permits. Prioritize answering all questions, as there is typically no penalty for guessing.

Yes, primary resources include the CDC's 'Principles of Epidemiology in Public Health Practice' (the EPI Core manual), the 'Field Epidemiology Manual' (FEM Wiki), and materials from the 'Training Programs in Epidemiology and Public Health Interventions Network' (TEPHINET). Your specific FETP program materials are also essential study tools.