USMLE

USMLE Exam Details - Eligibility, Age, Syllabus, and Everything in 2024

Around the world, many medical licensing exams exist, but none is as famous and widely recognized as the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). For many aspiring medical students, clearing the USMLE is a dream, as it opens the door to practicing medicine in the USA. Passing the USMLE exam enables students to begin their medical practice in the United States. However, before attempting the USMLE, it's important to gather all the details about the exam.

The USMLE is a three-step exam that assesses students' and graduates' knowledge and skills in basic and clinical sciences. It is required for all medical graduates who wish to practice medicine in the United States, regardless of where they completed their education. The USMLE process typically takes 2-3 years, though this can vary based on individual preparation and performance.

Why the USMLE Exam?

The USMLE exam is a gateway to obtaining permanent residency in the USA, as it is not possible to start practicing medicine without being granted residency. For Indian students, it is essential to understand each step of the USMLE exam for better preparation.

The exam consists of three steps:

• Step 1: Assesses basic medical knowledge.
• Step 2: Tests clinical knowledge.
• Step 3: Grants the license to practice medicine.

Step 1 and Step 2 must be passed before starting residency. Step 3 can be taken later.

USMLE Exam Details: Step-by-Step

The USMLE exam is divided into a broad range of topics, including both basic and clinical sciences. It is primarily a multiple-choice exam, but the questions are complex and demand critical thinking skills.

Step 1: Before appearing for the USMLE exam, you must register with the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). Then, you can proceed to take the Step 1 exam.

• Step 1 evaluates your basic medical knowledge. To pass this exam, you must answer at least 196 out of 280 questions correctly. The exam lasts 8 hours.

Best Books to Prepare for Step-1:

• U-World Question Bank
• Pathoma
• Sketchy Picture Mnemonics

Step 2: This stage evaluates clinical knowledge, including topics like OB-GYN and Pediatrics. It consists of 320 questions over 9 hours and follows the same difficulty level as Step 1. Once Step 1 is cleared, Step 2 becomes more manageable.

Best Books to Prepare for Step-2:

• U-World
• BNB Optional
• Amboss Library

Step 3: The final step of the USMLE exam, lasting two days, is the final assessment to obtain your USA medical license. This step confirms your eligibility to practice in the USA, and the examination committee is the state licensing board.

USMLE Step 3 Eligibility

To be eligible for Step 3, candidates must pass both Step 1 and Step 2. Additionally, candidates must hold an MD or DO degree from an LCME- or COCA-accredited U.S. or Canadian medical school.

USMLE Step 3 Registration Fee

The application fee for Step 3 can vary each year, with the 2023 fee being $915. In 2022, the fee was $895.

Exam Pattern and Syllabus

Step 3 spans two days. On Day 1, candidates must answer 232 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) divided into six blocks. They have 60 minutes for each block.

Books and Resources for Step-3:

• General Principles of Foundation Science and Management
• Behavioral Health
• Patient Care: Diagnosis and Management

USMLE Exam Fees

The cost of the USMLE exam varies depending on your medical school’s accreditation:

• For Graduates from COCA- or LCME-Accredited Schools in the U.S. or Canada:

  • ECFMG Application Fee: $160
  • Step 1 Application Fee: $985
  • Step 2 CK Application Fee: $985

• For Graduates from Medical Schools Outside the U.S. or Canada:

  • ECFMG Application Fee: $160
  • Step 1 Application Fee: $1,000
  • Step 2 CK Application Fee: $1,000

Additional Fees

Other fees associated with the USMLE exam:

• Extension of Eligibility Period: $100 per step
• Change in Testing Region: $90 per step
• Score Rechecking Fee: $80 per step
• Paper USMLE Transcript: $70 per transcript (up to 10)
• USMLE Transcript - Electronic Transmission (ERAS): $80 per session

Conclusion

The USMLE is a critical exam for anyone aspiring to practice medicine in the USA. It offers an essential pathway to obtain a medical license and settle in one of the world’s most developed countries. We’ve discussed the steps to clear the USMLE exam, including eligibility, syllabus, and fees. With dedicated preparation and the right resources, achieving your goal of practicing medicine in the U.S. is entirely possible.

Apna University provides valuable guidance and support for students preparing for the USMLE exam. Reach out for free counseling on exam dates, eligibility, registration fees, and preparation strategies.