The Examination

The EBEL Examination

A two-part assessment designed to evaluate both knowledge and real clinical judgement, combining an online written examination with an in-person oral examination in Antwerp.

I

Part 1 — Written Examination

March 2027

100 multiple-choice questions covering the full breadth of the EBEL curriculum, testing depth of theoretical knowledge across the core domains of laryngology; the examination is conducted online.

II

Part 2 — Oral Examination

16 May 2027

A face-to-face viva voce with a panel of senior European laryngologists, focusing on case-based, practical scenarios designed to assess real clinical judgement, will take place at the ELS 2027 Congress in Antwerp.

Curriculum

Five core domains

The EBEL written examination covers the essential pillars of contemporary laryngology practice.

01

Voice disorders

Assessment and management of the full spectrum of voice pathology.

02

Airway & breathing

Upper airway obstruction, stenosis and functional disorders.

03

Swallowing disorders

Diagnosis and treatment of dysphagia and related conditions.

04

Laryngeal cancer

Oncological principles, staging and treatment pathways.

05

Paediatric laryngology

Congenital and acquired disorders of the paediatric larynx.

Key dates

Examination timeline

June 2026

Expression of Interest opens

Register your interest to receive eligibility criteria and curriculum details ahead of the general release.

15 September 2026

Applications open

Formal applications open to eligible candidates.

March 2027

Part 1 — Written

100 multiple-choice questions across the five EBEL domains (ONLINE).

16 May 2027

Part 2 — Oral

Case-based viva voce with a senior European panel, ELS 2027 Congress, Antwerp.

EBEL
Recognition

What passing EBEL means

Successful candidates will be publicly listed and announced as holders of the EBEL credential, with formal recognition on the ELS website and in congress materials.

  • Official, independently assessed credential
  • Priority consideration for speaking and moderator roles at ELS events
  • Structured mentorship with senior European laryngologists
  • Access to exclusive EBEL events and working groups
Overview

Exam at a Glance

EBEL exam at a glance overview
Preparation

Curriculum and study materials

Due to the advanced level and the clinical nature of the exam there can be no strict definition of the study material. However, the exam will be representative of laryngological disorders treated by experienced laryngologists according to the domains discussed above and described in various current textbooks.

For further guidance, please see the UEMS subspecialty logbook for laryngology and the laryngology fellowship curriculum logbook of the ELS.

Source: European Laryngological Society — European Board Examination in Laryngology (EBEL)

Eligibility details

Eligibility criteria, examination format, and the application process are specified in the Examination Regulations (click on the link below). Registration opens on 15 September 2026 and closes on 15 January 2027, or earlier if all available places are filled. Capacity is strictly limited to 12 participants.

Official documents

Regulations & application forms

Read the examination regulations and download the required forms for your EBEL application.

Preview of Structured Reference Form Interactive PDF
Application form

Reference Form

Structured reference form for referees confirming the candidate’s independent laryngology practice.

Download PDF