Are You on Track for the USMLE®?

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Assuming you want to apply for residency in September, you will need to consider possible score delays along with exam preparation to calculate your target dates. According to the USMLE® website, it can be up to 8 weeks to receive your Step 1 and Step 2 CK scores. For Step 2 CS, it can take up to four months to receive your exam results.

Many people need 4-6 months to prepare for Step 1.  USMLE® Step 1 is the most difficult exam you will experience, so allow plenty of time for review and to practice questions. Do not take the exam until you are quite confident you will pass with a high score. Ideally, take Step 1 by April.

Many take 3-4 months to prepare for Step 2 CK. Devote about 2/3 of your Step 2 CK prep time to Internal Med as it is tested so heavily.  Ideally, take Step 2 CK by July to have your score before you apply for residency in September.

Step 2 CS needs plenty of practice and feedback from experts. If you are not certain you will pass, consider taking a course so you can learn how to perform the tasks correctly and in the allotted time.  You shouldn’t need weeks to prepare for Step 2 CS, but you should designate some uninterrupted time to focus on proper procedure and concentrated practice right before exam day.  According to the 2014 Step 2 CS score reporting schedule, you must take Step 2 CS by July 12^th if you want your results when you apply to residency.  NRMP requires you to have passed Step 2 CS before the Match, but ECFMG certification is a requirement to apply to some programs.  Check all program criteria carefully. However, please keep in mind that Step 2 CS test dates become more difficult to acquire as the year passes, so we recommend that you schedule your exam earlier in the year. Also, you will suffer less anxiety knowing you have passed Step 2 CS while you compile the components of your residency application and complete the remaining USMLE® requirements.

In order to plan your exam prep accurately, you must assess your current level of knowledge. A diagnostic exam is an excellent tool for this purpose, along with some guidance to develop your individual study plan. A study plan is essential to stay motivated, organized and on target. Kaplan medical advisors know every part of the residency application process and will help you through the experience. You can get a free session here.

Best of luck to all, wherever you are in the process!

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