Finally passed DEXA after two attempts — here's what actually helped

by Alex G. 499 views3 replies
A
Alex G.OP
May 27, 2026

So I just got my results back yesterday and I finally passed the DEXA exam on my second try. First attempt was about four months ago and I went in way underprepared — scored a 71 when I needed a 75. Honestly thought the content would be straightforward since I've been working in the field for three years, but the clinical application questions really tripped me up.

What made the difference this time was actually using a structured DEXA study guide instead of just reviewing my notes randomly. I spent about six weeks this round, two hours a night, and I was way more systematic about it. Bone density interpretation, quality control procedures, positioning protocols — I made sure I could answer questions from multiple angles on each topic. I also did a ton of DEXA practice test questions in the last two weeks, which helped me get comfortable with how they phrase things.

Anyone else have tips on the physics and instrumentation section? That was still my weakest area even passing. Happy to share more exam tips if people have questions about the process.

C
Carlos B.
May 28, 2026
Congrats on passing! The physics section got me too. What helped me was drawing out the beam geometry and detector mechanics by hand rather than just reading about them. Once I visualized it, the questions clicked way faster. Also the QC procedures have some tricky details around baseline drift — make sure you know the specific acceptable ranges, not just the concepts.
M
Marcus T.
May 28, 2026
I'm currently studying for my first attempt in about six weeks. How many practice questions did you do total? I've been averaging maybe 20-30 a day but I'm not sure if that's enough. Also did you find the actual exam harder or easier than the practice materials? I keep reading conflicting things about that.
J
James R.
May 28, 2026
Second attempt success stories are so encouraging, thank you for posting this. I failed by two points last fall and almost gave up. Starting my study schedule back up next month. The positioning protocol stuff you mentioned — definitely do not sleep on that section.

Join the Discussion

Sign in or register to reply with your account, or reply as a guest below.