Blog

USMLE

The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) is a gateway examination for gaining a licence to practise medicine in the USA. It is sponsored by the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) and the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME). The USMLE consists of three parts, which are designed to assess the candidate’s theoretical knowledge and clinical prowess.

USMLE Format and Exam Pattern

The USMLE exam consists of three steps, which are USMLE Step 1, USMLE Step 2, and USMLE Step 3, respectively.

The USMLE Step 1 exam is a computer-based test that assesses the theoretical knowledge of the candidate. It consists of 7 blocks with a duration of 60 minutes and a total number of 280 MCQ format questions with an average of 90 seconds allotted for each question.

The USMLE Step 2 CK exam is a computer-based test that assesses the ability of the candidate to apply theoretical knowledge into clinical settings focusing on critical patient care under supervision. The exam consists of 9 blocks of 60 minutes each and covers around 316 MCQ format questions with an average duration of 91 seconds allotted for each question.

The USMLE Step 3 exam is a 2-day examination that assesses the candidate’s ability to independently assume responsibility in delivering medical care. On the first day, candidates need to answer 232 multiple-choice questions through a series of six blocks with a duration of 60 minutes each. On the second day, the examinee needs to attend an optional tutorial of 5 minutes and needs to answer 180 MCQs through 6 blocks of 30 questions. Beyond that, a candidate must complete a 7-minute CCS tutorial and 13 case simulations.

 USMLE Eligibility

For the USMLE Step 1 and USMLE Step 2 of the examination, a candidate needs to satisfy one of the following eligibility criteria:

• Currently studying or graduated from a medical school in the USA or Canada recognised by the US Department of Education.
• Currently studying or graduated from a medical school in the USA leading to a DO degree.
• Currently studying or graduated from a medical school listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools.

For USMLE Step 3, a candidate needs to have passed the previous two steps of the USMLE exam and need to have graduated from a medical institute satisfying the criteria mentioned above.

USMLE Preparation Strategy

Preparing for USMLE is a comprehensive process that needs an extensive array of learning resources and expert guidance. Due to its exhaustive syllabus and strict requirements. That’s why you need an all-in-one solution like StudyUSMLE’s USMLE courses that offer a complete USMLE preparation through live interactive classes and a wide array of learning resources.

Feel free to contact us for more information.

Authored By: Sanad Beevi