Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)

NBSTSA Commonly Funded

$210 Exam Cost $175 for students of accredited programs

$55,000 Average Salary

$45,000–$65,000 Salary Range

48-96 Prep Weeks

4 years / $100 Renewal

About the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)

Certification for surgical technologists who assist in operating rooms by preparing instruments, maintaining sterile fields, and assisting surgeons.

Prerequisites

Accredited surgical technology program

Testing Format

In-person at Prometric (175 questions, 4 hours)

How VR&E Funds the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)

VR&E funds the surgical technology program and certification. Veterans with combat medic or operating room experience have a strong advantage.

What VR&E Typically Covers:

Exam fee ($210) — funded through Purchase Orders
Preparation courses and training programs
Study materials, practice exams, and lab access
Exam vouchers and retake fees when approved
Initial renewal fees may be covered during your plan period

All funding is subject to individual VRC approval as part of your Individualized Written Rehabilitation Plan (IWRP).

Career Paths with the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)

Surgical TechnologistOperating Room TechnicianFirst Surgical AssistantCentral Sterile Processing

VR&E vs GI Bill® for the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)

VR&E Chapter 31

Exam fee covered in full ($210) — no per-test cap
Prep courses and materials funded separately
No upfront payment — funded through Purchase Orders
Part of your career rehabilitation plan

GI Bill®

$2,000 per-test reimbursement cap
Veteran pays upfront, gets reimbursed
This exam ($210) falls within the GI Bill® cap
Does not cover prep courses or study materials

Related Certifications

Ready to Get the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Funded Through VR&E?

Get Your Free Eligibility Checklist VR&E Application Toolkit — $197

Need help preparing for your VRC meeting? Explore the Counselor Meeting Prep Session — $497