In the United States, becoming an allergist / immunologist requires at least an additional nine years of training beyond a bachelor’s degree.
After completing medical school and graduating with a medical degree, physicians undergo three years of training in internal medicine or pediatrics and pass the certification examination of either the the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) or the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP). Internists and pediatricians interested in becoming an allergist / immunologist have at least an additional two years of study, called a fellowship, in an allergy / immunology training program.

Allergist / immunologists listed as board certified (ABAI-certified) have successfully passed the certification examination of the American Board of Allergy and Immunology (ABAI). Many of these individuals have achieved the rank of Fellow. When you see “FACAAI” or “FAAAAI” alongside the designation of “MD” you know that your allergist/immunologist has achieved many of the highest standards in the field.