USMLE Board Examination Preparation
The USMLE is a benchmark that must be passed by all medical students in the United States. To become a practicing physician, you must pass all three Steps of the USMLE. The USMLE assesses an examinee’s ability to apply knowledge, concepts, and principles, and to demonstrate fundamental patient-centered skills. These skills constitute the basis of safe and effective patient care. Your USMLE scores will play a large role in determining your options for residency programs.
Retaking Failed Examinations
In Texas, individuals are limited to three attempts at each Step exam. Some states allow more attempts, some allow fewer. Our goal is for all our students to be eligible for licensure in every state.
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STEP 1: assess foundational medical science typically learned during the first two years of medical school. Step 1 assesses the examinee’s understanding of and ability to apply important concepts of the basic sciences to the practice of medicine, with special emphasis on principles and mechanisms underlying health, disease and modes of therapy. |
Step 1 is a one-day examination administered in one 8-hour testing session. The total number of items on the overall examination will not exceed 280 items.
The amount of time available for breaks may be increased by finishing a block of test items or the optional tutorial before the allotted time expires. |
SCORE: Pass/Fail *Students will take Step 1 at the end of their second year. |
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STEP 2 CK: assesses the examinee’s ability to apply medical knowledge, skills and understanding of clinical science essential for the provision of patient care under supervision, with an emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention. |
Step 2 CK is a one-day examination administered in one 9-hour testing session. The total number of items on the overall examination will not exceed 316 items.
The amount of time available for breaks may be increased by finishing a block of test items or the optional tutorial before the allotted time expires. |
SCORE: Minimum passing score 218 Average passing score 245-248 *Students will take Step 2CK in their fourth year. |
Visit Step 3 Exam Content for more information
*Some aspects of the USMLE Exams are subject to change annually. Visit www.usmle.org.