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The United States undoubtedly offers an array of benefits for doctors, in terms of career growth, working conditions, job roles, remuneration, reputation, etc. This is why most doctors prefer to migrate to the US. However, for foreign-qualified medical practitioners, it is mandatory to clear the United States Licensing Exam (USMLE), in order to be eligible to practice within the United States. In other words, the USMLE is a gateway for doctors from around the world to enter the medical arena of the United States and establish a prosperous career there.
The USMLE consists of 3 examinations, namely Step 1 Exam, Step 2 CK Exam, and Step 3 Exam. Let us understand Step 1 and Step 2 in detail and analyse the key differences between them.
Purpose of the Examination
USMLE Step 1: Step 1 of the USMLE exam is a test of the basic scientific and medical understanding of the candidate. It focuses on the candidate’s knowledge about the principles of health, diseases and therapies.
USMLE Step 2 CK: Step 2 of the USMLE exam evaluates the candidate’s ability to apply their clinical knowledge, including putting theories into practice, communicating effectively with the patients and delivering efficient patient care.
Pattern of the Examination
USMLE Step 1
- Mode of exam : Computer based test
- Exam pattern: 7 Blocks of 40 MCQs (maximum)
- Total number of questions = 280 (maximum)
USMLE Step 1 exam is conducted in 7 blocks. The number of questions that will be asked in each block is not fixed. However, it will not exceed 40 questions. Congruently, the total number of questions will not be more than 280.
USMLE Step 2 CK
- Mode of examination : Computer based test
- Exam pattern : 8 blocks of 60-minutes (maximum)
- Total number of questions: 318 MCQs (maximum)
USMLE Step 2 exam is conducted in 8 blocks. The number of questions in each block shall not exceed 40 and the total number of questions shall not be more than 318.
Examination Duration
USMLE Step 1: 60-minute duration is granted for a candidate to complete the questions in each block. The candidate is also allowed a 45- minute break and 15-minute optional tutorial, making the total duration of the examination to be 8 hours.
USMLE Step 2 CK: Every block of the USMLE Step 2 CK Exam is allotted a maximum time of 60 minutes. The total examination duration is 9 hours. The examination provides for a minimum break time of 45 minutes, which can be extended if the candidate completes the assessment of each block before the stipulated time. The candidates could also opt for a 15- minute tutorial.
How to Prepare?
Both Step 1 and Step 2 CK of the USMLE Examination hold tremendous importance in your USMLE journey. These examinations are highly demanding and require extensive preparation to clear them in the first attempt. If you are in search of a one-stop solution for your USMLE preparation, then StudyUSMLE is the best platform. Our USMLE courses are trusted by doctors around the world for their quality and excellence. We promise to provide the most relevant resources, highly experienced mentorship, comprehensive strategies and support at every step until you become eligible to secure your dream job in the US. To know more, connect with our team today!
Authored By: Pooja Premraj
By : Admin
