Can I take Step 1 whenever I want?

Technically, you can take the exam whenever you want, but your specific scheduling usually depends on your medical school's policies. Once you start down the path of preparing for Step 1, register for it at least six months in advance of your test date.

Can you take Step 1 anytime?

In LCME-accredited medical schools, although Step 1 and Step 2 can be taken in any order, most students will take Step 1 at the end of their second year and Step 2 in their fourth year; Step 3 is usually taken during the first or second year of postgraduate training.

How often can you take Step 1?

Technically, you are able to take Step 1 a total of four times, but only three times within a 12-month period. If you want to take the test a fourth time, it must be at least 12 months after your first attempt and at least six months after your most recent attempt.

What month should you take Step 1?

Step 1 is administered by appointment on a year-round basis. While most students take Step 1 of the Boards at the end of their second year, consider not taking the exam until you're very confident you'll pass. Ideally, take Step 1 by April.

How early can you schedule Step 1?

After obtaining the scheduling permit, you may visit the Prometric website to schedule a test date. Scheduling may not be available more than six months in advance.

How To Easily Pass Step 1

What should I do the night before Step 1?

The night before, try to go to bed early to get your eight hours of sleep. I know it's difficult to do that so it may help to do exercise or some type of physical activity during the day to feel tired at your bedtime. On the morning of the exam wake up early (at about 6 a.m) to take a shower.

Is UWorld necessary for Step 1?

UWorld alone is not enough. You should use UWorld along with these tips to effectively prepare for Step 1: Combine UWorld with other resources, such as First Aid and NBME self-assessments. Start with a small question pool at the beginning of each topic to determine which concepts you need to focus on the most.

How many hours a day should I study for Step 1?

How Many Hours a Day Should I Study for Step 1? The answer to this question depends on how much time you must prepare before taking the exam. However, students report around 10-12 hours of study per day is ideal–breaks included, of course.

Can you use your phone during Step 1 breaks?

Even though you can use your phone between blocks during the break, I recommend keeping your phone off the whole time you're in the center. However still bring it with you so that you can make calls in case of emergencies or coordinate your pick up after Step 1 exam.

Do residencies see if you fail Step 1?

What Do Residency Programs Do When You Fail Step 1. I won't sugar-coat it. There are a fair number of programs that will reject an application that has a USMLE fail. That said, many programs will still consider you if you do better on a subsequent attempt.

Is Step 1 harder than MCAT?

In terms of exam difficulty, the MCAT is considered easier compared to the USMLE Step 1. It is because the MCAT only tests the basic science principles and skills of the individual if one fits the requirement to proceed or enter med school.

Is it hard to fail Step 1?

Not surprisingly, many students who fail Step 1 feel overwhelmed and fearful of the future. However, a failed Step 1 doesn't mean you are a failure or that you will fail again. According to the 2021 USMLE pass rates, U.S. MDs who retook Step 1 had a 66% pass rate, while U.S. DOs who retook the exam had a 75% pass rate.

Can you fail Step 1 twice?

If you do not pass the USMLE Step 1 exam, you have the option to retake it up to six times. However, within a 12 month period, you can only take the exam a maximum of three times. If you fail the exam on your first try, you can take it again two more times within one year.

What is the ECFMG 7 year rule?

ECFMG requires that international medical graduates satisfy the examination requirements for ECFMG Certification within a seven-year period. This means that once you pass an exam, you will have seven years to pass the other exam(s) required for ECFMG Certification.

What is the 7 year rule for Step 3?

Time Limit for Completing Licensing Examination Sequence. Must pass all Steps of the USMLE within 7 years from the date of first passing any Step of the exam. Must pass Step 3 within 4 years of the first attempt at Step 3 or must complete 1 year of post-graduate training before making additional attempts at Step 3.

Is Step 1 one of the hardest exams?

The USMLE Step 1 exam is the most challenging, most important test you will take during your medical career. This test is over all of the information you absorbed in the first two years of medical school, and it takes seven hours to complete.

Can I finish Step 1 in 3 months?

You can definitely study for the USMLE in 3 months. It may even take you less time if you have a good understanding of your foundational medical knowledge! But, it's better to be safe than sorry. With more study time, you can build your confidence and memory recall for the lengthy eight-hour exam day.

What is a very good Step 1 score?

Prior to starting your dedicated study time, make sure to do some research and figure out if your goal range matches the expectations of your chosen specialty. Generally speaking, however, a USMLE® Step 1 score between 230 and 245 was considered a good and a score between 245 and 255 was considered very good.

Is Step 1 harder than UWorld?

Is UWorld Harder Than Step 1? Many students feel the USMLE/NBME questions are more “vague” (more on this below). However, UWorld does seem to be harder than Step 1 in one respect. One thing to note is that UWorld Step 1 seems to have more “noise” than is found in most Step 1 questions.

Can I pass Step 1 just with UWorld?

Although UWorld is valuable for learning and reviewing, it's not sufficient as the sole study tool for Step 1. We recommend utilizing UWorld in conjunction with First Aid and flashcards to get the most out of your dedicated.

Can I pass Step 1 without studying?

We highly recommend taking a practice test before starting your studies. Many students are hesitant to do so as they are afraid to see a score that is lower than they hope for. This is normal! Nobody should expect to pass this test with flying colors without studying!

Do you get a refund if you cancel Step 1?

Once registered, you cannot cancel or postpone your registration. If you do not schedule and take the exam, you will not receive a refund or credit of your exam fee(s), and you will be required to reapply, including payment of all applicable fees, if you wish to take the exam.

Is Step 1 multiple choice?

Step 1 consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs), also known as items, created by USMLE committees composed of faculty members, investigators, and clinicians with recognized prominence in their respective fields.

How many times can you fail Step 1?

You are allowed to take the USMLE Step 1 exam up to four times, including incomplete attempts. You can attempt Step 1 a maximum of three times within a 12-month period. Your fourth attempt and any subsequent attempts must be at least 12 months after your initial attempt.