The Fellow of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (FASCO) designation represents one of the highest recognitions of sustained contribution within American Society of Clinical Oncology. It honors members whose volunteer service, engagement, and dedication have significantly advanced the mission of ASCO and the Association for Clinical Oncology. Conferred upon meeting a defined point threshold, FASCO status reflects not only professional excellence but also a long-term commitment to the oncology community.
What Does It Take to Become a FASCO?
Eligibility for the FASCO designation is determined through a structured point system. Members must accumulate at least 100 points through a combination of volunteer service and engagement activities within ASCO. Importantly, both the opportunity to earn points and the designation itself are reserved exclusively for ASCO members in good standing.
Since 2022, the framework has expanded to formally recognize engagement activities, allowing members to contribute in more diverse ways beyond traditional leadership and committee roles.
A Lifetime Recognition with Tangible Benefits
Once awarded, FASCO status is a lifetime designation, carrying both professional distinction and practical benefits. Fellows are entitled to use the F.A.S.C.O. designation after their name, signaling recognized leadership within the oncology field. In addition, they receive reduced registration rates for ASCO Meetings and Symposia, as well as formal acknowledgment through ASCO’s communication channels, including ASCO Connection and social media platforms.
Their names are permanently included in the official FASCO Registry, and they are visibly recognized during the ASCO Annual Meeting with a dedicated ribbon and pin.
How Are FASCO Points Earned?
The FASCO point system reflects a balance between leadership, service, and engagement. Points are awarded annually based on roles and activities, with higher-value positions corresponding to greater responsibility.
Senior leadership roles within ASCO, including positions such as President, Chair, Treasurer, or Board Member, are awarded 15 points per year. Leadership positions within committees, editorial boards, and task force such as Chair or Editor-in-Chief earn 10 points annually. Active participation in these groups as members, associate editors, or representatives contributes 5 points per year. Volunteer Corps activities, including mentorship and participation, provide 3 points annually.
Engagement Beyond Traditional Roles
In addition to formal service roles, ASCO has introduced structured engagement activities that allow members to earn points annually. Participation in meetings and symposia contributes 2 points per year, while receiving or nominating colleagues for grants and awards also provides 2 points annually.
Additional contributions include completing ASCO surveys, engaging in myConnection discussions, donating to Conquer Cancer, and voting in ASCO elections, each offering 1–2 points per year within defined limits.
Career development programs also play a significant role. Participation in the Leadership Development Program (LDP) or LDP: Education Scholars provides 5 points per year, while involvement in the JCO® Journals Editorial Fellowship contributes 3 points annually. Mentors and facilitators within these programs may also be eligible for additional points.
Volunteering as the Foundation of Recognition
At the core of the FASCO designation lies volunteerism. ASCO emphasizes that volunteering not only strengthens the organization but also enables members to actively shape the future of oncology. Opportunities span committees, editorial boards, task forces, and mentorship programs, with annual point allocations ranging from 3 to 15 depending on the level of responsibility.
Members interested in contributing are encouraged to complete a Volunteer Interest Form through the ASCO Volunteer Portal. Active membership remains a prerequisite for all such opportunities.
Fellows of ASCO (FASCO)
Tracking Progress Toward Fellowship
To ensure transparency and accessibility, ASCO provides members with tools to monitor their progress. FASCO point totals and membership status can be reviewed directly through the individual ASCO profile, allowing members to track their journey toward fellowship in real time.
A Recognition That Reflects Community Impact
The FASCO designation goes beyond titles and credentials. It represents a sustained investment in advancing oncology through collaboration, leadership, and service. By formally recognizing these contributions, ASCO reinforces the importance of community engagement in shaping clinical practice, research, and education worldwide.
Written by Nare Hovhannisyan, MD