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2026 Orthopaedic In-Training Exam: Technical Support and Troubleshooting

Membership / Become an AAOS Member / Active Fellow Membership / Apply for Active Fellow Membership

ACTIVE FELLOW MEMBERSHIP

Earn the FAAOS Designation Your Patients and Peers Already Recognize.

Active Fellow Membership in AAOS marks you as board-certified, actively practicing, and committed to the highest standard of orthopaedic care — backed by research, education, and a community of peers who hold that same standard.

 

Get notified   

Next election class opens November 1, 2026.

AAOS has been a constant resource during training and beyond. From attending the Annual Meeting as a medical student, to becoming a member since residency, I have counted on the AAOS to provide networking and accurate education.

Raj Gala, MD, FAAOS

Member Since 2013

Application Window

Nov 1 – July 31

2027 election class

Application Fee

$400

One-time, due at submission

Membership Dues

$865

2027 New Active Fellows Years 1–3

$1,165

2027 Returning Active Fellows

Notification Date

Up to four months

ELIGIBILITY

Do You Qualify to Apply?

Active Fellow Membership has four core requirements. If you meet all four, you're ready to start gathering documents.

  • Board certified by ABOS, AOBOS, or RCPSC
  • Practicing, teaching, or researching orthopaedic surgery full-time in the U.S. or Canada
  • Hold a full, unrestricted medical license (or qualifying federal service)
  • Comply with the AAOS Standards of Professionalism

 

Have These Ready Before You Start

The application takes about 60 minutes if your documents are gathered ahead of time.

   ✓ Two sponsor names (must be Active Fellows)

   ✓ Certification and practice details

   ✓ Education, residency & fellowship history

   ✓ Hospital and teaching affiliations

   ✓ Curriculum vitae (PDF)

WHAT TO EXPECT

A Four-Step Process, Start to Finish

Most applicants complete the form in one or two sittings — you can save and pick back up anytime within 30 days.

1

Submit

Complete your application and pay the $400 fee. ~60 minutes, savable in progress.

2

Confirm Your Sponsor

Before you apply, reach out to your two sponsors to confirm they’ve agreed to sponsor your FAAOS application.

3

Council & Board Review

The Membership Council and then by the AAOS Board of Directors on a rolling basis.

4

Election

Applicants are approved and accepted as an election class every 4 months.

ⓘ Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis from November through June. Applying early gives you the longest runway to make the most of your membership, with earlier access to member benefits including exclusive rates, discounts, and the resources you need to succeed.

What Is Your FAAOS Membership Worth?

FAAOS Membership offers incredible value. Membership will provide you with a range of exclusive products, programs, services, and discounts that will help improve your patient care and support the success of your practice.

16,585

Active Fellows as of Sept. 20, 2026

1898

AAOS founded

 

Be first to know when the 2027 application opens.

Leave your email and we'll notify you the day the window opens November 1 — plus send a reminder before it closes.

Do You Have Questions or Need Assistance?

Please contact our Customer and Member Service Team or call us at 800-626-6726 today.