Empowering Residents – Strengthening Training – Uniting Europe

The European Progress Test in ORL-HNS has officially begun, opening a new and exciting chapter in European specialist training. Endorsed and actively promoted by the Confederation, this initiative is developed by the European Board Examination in ORL-HNS (EBEORL-HNS) using its resources and expertise in assessments, designed by educators, for residents, with one clear goal: to support learning through honest, personal feedback and measurable progress over time.

The first-ever European Progress Test was conducted online on 25^th of October 2025, marking an important milestone. Residents from 11 European countries participated in this inaugural sitting, confirming strong international interest.

An Educational Tool Designed for Progress

Conceived as a formative, educational assessment, the European Progress Test is not an examination to be passed or failed. Instead, it provides residents with an objective snapshot of their current level of knowledge at a given stage of training. By repeating the test annually, trainees can track their personal learning curve, identify strengths and gaps early, and guide their long-term educational development. Especially in the early years, low scores are entirely expected—and meaningful. What matters is progress, not performance at a single point in time.

Equally important, the test has the potential to generate valuable aggregated data that can support training institutions, national societies, and educators in refining curricula and strengthening residency programs across Europe.

A Call for Active Support and Endorsement

CEORL-HNS and EBEORL-HNS warmly invites national societies, training institutions, and program directors to actively support and endorse the European Progress Test by:

• promoting participation among residents,
• integrating the test into national educational strategies, and
• recognizing it as a valuable component of continuous professional development.

Looking Ahead

Following the success of the inaugural test, the next European Progress Test in ORL-HNS will take place from 16^th to 22^nd of November 2026. During a week-long time frame the residents will be able to log-in and take the test anytime that is suitable for them. With its unique concept and constructive alignment with their training, this initiative is well positioned to become a cornerstone of ORL-HNS residency education across Europe.

The European Progress Test is simply more than an assessment—it is an investment in residents, in training quality, and in the future of our specialty.

For further information and application please visit www.ebeorl-hns.org

On behalf of the EBEORL-HNS Board and CEORL-HNS Presidential Council