How to Become a Radiologist: Your Complete Guide from High School to Board Certification

If you've ever been fascinated by X-rays, CT scans, or the technology behind diagnosing injuries and diseases, you might be interested in becoming a radiologist. But what exactly is a radiologist? And how long does it take to become one?

Whether you're a high school student exploring your future or already set on medicine, this guide breaks down the full radiology career path—from your first biology class to board certification. We'll also walk you through the radiologist education requirements, what a typical day in the field looks like, and answer the question on everyone's mind: how much do radiologists make?

What Is a Radiologist?

A radiologist is a medical doctor (MD or DO) who specializes in interpreting medical images, like X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds, to diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries. They're the experts behind the scenes, working closely with other physicians to help identify problems that aren't visible to the naked eye.

There are also different types of radiologists, such as:

• Diagnostic radiologists – interpret medical images to diagnose conditions
• Interventional radiologists – use imaging to guide minimally invasive procedures
• Radiation oncologists – treat cancer using targeted radiation therapy
• Pediatric radiologists – focus on imaging and treatment for children

How Long Does It Take to Become a Radiologist?

Let's be honest: becoming a radiologist is a long journey. But if you're passionate about medicine and technology, the process is incredibly rewarding. Here's a breakdown of the timeline:

Total time: 13–15 years after high school

Don't let the timeline scare you—each step brings you closer to a fulfilling and high-impact career.

Step-by-Step: Radiologist Education Requirements

1. Start Strong in High School

If you're serious about a radiology career path, high school is where the foundation begins. Focus on excelling in core science subjects like:

• AP Biology
• AP Chemistry
• AP Physics 1
• AP Calculus AB/BC
• Algebra

Strong science grades now will prepare you for the challenges of college pre-med courses and, later, the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test). About 80% of pre-med students use resources like UWorld, known for its realistic practice questions and in-depth explanations, to reinforce concepts early, long before test day.

Outside the classroom, get involved in:

• Science clubs or pre-health organizations
• Hospital or clinic volunteering
• Shadowing physicians (if possible)
• Summer science programs

These experiences can inspire you, build your resume, and help you decide if radiology is the right fit.

2. Earn a Bachelor's Degree (Pre-Med)

To apply to medical school, you'll need a bachelor's degree—typically in a science-related major like biology, chemistry, or physics. But what matters most is completing your pre-med requirements, which include:

• General biology (with lab)
• General and organic chemistry (with lab)
• Physics
• Biochemistry
• Statistics
• English or writing-intensive courses

During college, maintain a strong GPA (especially in science courses) and participate in meaningful extracurriculars like:

• Clinical volunteering
• Research experience
• Leadership roles
• Physician shadowing
• MCAT preparation (often by junior year)

The MCAT is a major milestone in your journey to becoming a radiologist. It tests your knowledge in science, reasoning, and behavioral science. Many students find that using a high-quality prep platform like UWorld helps them master content and develop the critical thinking skills necessary for a top score.

3. Attend Medical School (4 Years)

Once accepted, medical school consists of two main phases:

• Years 1–2: Classroom-based learning in subjects like anatomy, pathology, physiology, and pharmacology. You'll also prep for Step 1 of the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Exam).
• Years 3–4: Clinical rotations across specialties, including internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and yes, radiology.

During rotations, you'll experience different fields firsthand. If radiology still excites you, this is your chance to build relationships with mentors, secure strong letters of recommendation, and prepare your residency application.

4. Complete a Radiology Residency

After medical school, you'll enter a radiology residency, which typically lasts 4–5 years. This is where you become an expert in reading and interpreting medical images, using the latest imaging technology, and working in high-stakes healthcare environments.

Residency includes:

• One year of internship (clinical or transitional year)
• Four years of diagnostic radiology training

During residency, you'll also take board exams from the American Board of Radiology (ABR) to become board-certified.

5. Consider a Fellowship (Optional)

Some radiologists choose to pursue an additional 1–2 years of specialized training through a fellowship in fields like:

• Neuroradiology
• Musculoskeletal radiology
• Breast imaging
• Pediatric radiology
• Interventional radiology

Fellowships can enhance your skills, increase job opportunities, and raise your earning potential

How Much Do Radiologists Make?

Radiology is one of the highest-paying medical specialties. According to recent data, the average salary for a radiologist in the U.S. ranges from $350,000 to over $500,000 per year, depending on factors like location, subspecialty, and years of experience.

While the road is long, the financial rewards, combined with the ability to make a major impact on patient care, make it a top choice for many future physicians.

Why Choose Radiology?

Here's what makes radiology a compelling medical specialty:

✔ Tech-driven – Work with cutting-edge imaging tools
✔ High impact – Play a key role in diagnosis and treatment
✔ Less physically demanding – Compared to surgical specialties
✔ Work-life balance – Certain positions offer flexible or remote options
✔ Diverse subspecialties – Opportunity to find a niche you love

If you're curious about anatomy, enjoy solving puzzles, and love working behind the scenes with technology, radiology might be your dream job.

Start Early, Stay Focused

If you're in high school and dreaming of a career in medicine, it's never too early to take the first steps. Excelling in science classes now will not only help you get into a good college—it will lay the groundwork for everything to come, including your MCAT success.

Many top-performing students use UWorld to master foundational science concepts and build confidence with practice questions that mirror real exam formats. Whether you're just beginning your journey or prepping for med school, staying consistent with your study habits will set you apart.

You've Got This!

Choosing the path to radiology is a big decision, but with the right mindset and tools, it's absolutely within reach. Stay curious, work hard in your science classes, and keep your eye on the goal. Whether you're reviewing cell structures in biology or calculating equations in physics, remember—it all counts.

One day, you could be the expert helping doctors save lives with just a scan.

FAQ: How to Become a Radiologist