Planning to Work as a Medical Technologist in the US?
Imagine having endless career opportunities, competitive salaries, and the chance to work in some of the most advanced healthcare facilities in the world. The demand for skilled Medical Technologists (MTs) or Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) in the U.S. is skyrocketing, and now is the perfect time to take advantage of this growing need.
In fact, by 2025 the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects more than 24,000 vacancies for clinical laboratory technologists – per year – over the next decade. This marks a nearly fivefold increase in annual lab tech job openings since 2000. With a shortage of over 98, 700 medical technologists in the US, this makes it an excellent time for international MTs to pursue a career in the country and for local MTs to seek the chance to up their careers.
With the right certifications, international candidates can unlock rewarding career opportunities as Medical Technologists in the U.S. Curious on how to get started? Read on to learn about the essential certifications, licensing requirements, and immigration steps that will set you on the path to becoming a Medical Technologist in the U.S.
Where do I begin?
To work as a Medical Technologist (MT) in the U.S., you must first meet the certification requirements set by recognized credentialing organizations. All states require MTs to hold certification from one of these two governing bodies:
- American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
- American Medical Technologists (AMT)
Both ASCP and AMT offer certification exams that evaluate your competency in medical laboratory science according to U.S. healthcare standards. If you’re an international candidate, don’t worry—both organizations allow graduates from non-U.S. medical laboratory science programs to apply.
You would also need to meet the following requirements to qualify:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Medical Technology, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field.
- At least one year of hands-on experience in a clinical laboratory setting, including performing diagnostic tests, troubleshooting equipment, and maintaining lab standards.
- And the certification from an accredited organization such as ASCP or AMT
But how do you choose which certification to pursue? Let’s break them down:
ASCP vs. ASCPi vs AMT: What’s the Difference?
The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) offers two types of certifications:
American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Certification
This certification is for candidates who completed their training in the United States and wish to practice as MTs/ MLS in the country. Check your eligibility here
- Must have completed a NAACLS-accredited Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) or Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) program.
National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) accredits educational programs that meet U.S. standards for laboratory science. Graduates are trained in clinical chemistry, microbiology, hematology, immunohematology (blood banking), and molecular diagnostics and upon completion, are automatically eligible to take the ASCP exam. Want to verify your program? Click here.
- Requires a Bachelor’s Degree and Clinical Training
A degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Medical Technology, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field is typically required. In addition, candidates must complete clinical laboratory training in an accredited facility to gain hands-on experience.
- Must Pass the ASCP Board Certification Exam
The ASCP-BOC exam evaluates knowledge in major laboratory disciplines, ensuring candidates meet professional competency standards. The test consists of multiple-choice questions covering laboratory principles, procedures, and troubleshooting skills.
- Recognized by all U.S. states and widely accepted by employers.
Often considered as the gold standard, this certification is accepted by hospitals, diagnostic labs, and research institutions across the country. Many states require MLS-ASCP) certification for laboratory personnel licensing thus, holding an MLS-ASCP credential significantly improves job prospects and salary potential, particularly in specialized fields like molecular diagnostics, hematology, and microbiology.
ASCP International (ASCPi) Certification
Designed for foreign-trained Medical Technologists who want to work in U.S. laboratories or gain international recognition for their qualifications. It is similar to the U.S.-based MLS-ASCP) certification, but with eligibility criteria adapted for different education systems outside the U.S. Check your eligibility here.
- Does not require a NAACLS-accredited program but instead accepts equivalent education and experience from other countries.
Since international education systems vary, ASCPi allows candidates with bachelor’s degrees in medical technology, laboratory science, or related fields to qualify. Training must be approved by the country’s regulatory body or evaluated by ASCP’s International Advisory Board.
- Eligibility criteria vary based on international education systems and regulatory boards.
Unlike MLS(ASCP), ASCPi certification does not have strict requirements on credit hours, coursework, or specific clinical training affiliations. Candidates must submit transcripts and proof of work experience for eligibility verification.
- Requires candidates to pass the same ASCP Board of Certification (BOC) exam as U.S.-trained applicants.
The ASCPi exam is identical to the ASCP exam, covering hematology, microbiology, immunology, clinical chemistry, and other laboratory disciplines. This ensures that international candidates meet the same competency standards as U.S.-trained professionals.
- Some U.S. states do not accept ASCPi certification for full licensure.
While ASCPi is internationally recognized, some states require additional steps to convert it into full MLS(ASCP) certification before allowing candidates to work. States like California, Florida, and New York have specific licensure requirements that may not accept ASCPi without additional qualifications. Nonetheless, ASCPi is respected in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and other regions, enhancing job prospects especially for Senior and specialized roles.
American Medical Technologist (AMT) Certification
Another widely recognized credential for MTs/MLS in the US and an alternative to the ASCP certification. Check your eligibility here.
- Does not require a NAACLS-accredited program
Similar to ASCPi, AMT Certification does not require NAACLS-accredited training, which makes it a more accessible option for international candidates. It accepts equivalent education and experience, provided the candidate has a bachelor’s of an equivalent degree and one year of full-time clinical laboratory experience.
- Requires candidates to pass an AMT Certification Exam
AMT assesses the same content points as the others mentioned above, primarily clinical chemistry, microbiology, hematology, immunohematology (blood banking), and laboratory operations. This is to ensure that candidates meet professional standards upon entering the US workforce.
- Recognized by many US Employers but requires continuing education
While AMT certification is widely accepted, some employers and state licensure boards may prefer ASCP certification. Applicants should check employer and state-specific requirements before applying. To maintain active certification, AMT-certified professionals must complete periodic continuing education and renewal.
Which Certification Should You Choose?
Your decision between ASCP and AMT will depend on factors such as:
1. Employer preferences – Some hospitals specifically require ASCP certification, while others accept both ASCP and AMT.
2. State requirements – Certain states may have additional licensing rules, so check the requirements where you plan to work.
3. Career goals – If you plan to work internationally in the future, ASCPi may be a better option due to its global recognition.
If you’re not sure which path to take, consulting a healthcare recruitment agency such as LabMindsStaffing can help you determine the best certification for your career goals. Partnering with LabMinds Staffing simplifies the process, from credential evaluation to job placement, so you can focus on building your future in the U.S.
What comes next? – Immigration & Licensing
Once you have your certification, the next step is to secure a work visa and meet any state-specific licensing requirements. Many international Medical Technologists apply for jobs through staffing agencies like LabMinds Staffing, which assist with visa sponsorship and employer connections. Their expertise in healthcare recruitment ensures a smoother transition into the U.S. workforce.
For international candidates, the most common visa pathways include:
- H-1B Visa – A work visa for skilled professionals, typically requiring employer sponsorship.
- TN Visa (for Canadian and Mexican citizens) under NAFTA/USMCA agreements.
- Green Card Sponsorship an offer of permanent residency sponsorship for long-term employment.
Wanna know more about other certifications? Or ready to take the next step in your career? Choose a team that’s with you every step of the way through LabMinds. Contact support@labmindsstaffing.com today!