FAQs for the USMLE Step 1 – Medical School Companion

The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1 ensures the individual has mastered medical sciences, as well as having a foundation in safe and competent practice. If you’re looking to take the USMLE Step 1, then here is everything you need to know.

What does USMLE stand for?

USMLE stands for the United States Medical Licensing Examination which is a three-step examination for medical licensure in the United States of America.

How much does it cost to take the USMLE Step 1?

The cost is $645 for American and Canadian students; and $965 for international students.

How many questions are on the USMLE Step 1?

There are up to 280 questions in the exam.

What is the USMLE Step 1 format?

The USMLE Step 1 exam is administered in and 8-hour testing session that’s divided into seven 60-minute blocks. Each block has a maximum of 40 questions. The exam features long questions with several answer choices, thoroughly testing your knowledge and skills.

Put your clinical reasoning skills to the test with a USMLE-Style Questions Bank for Step 1

What is covered in USMLE Step 1?

The USMLE Step 1 exam covers all basic scientific principles, including:

Anatomy
Behavioural sciences
Biochemistry
Biostatistics
Epidemiology
Microbiology
Pathology
Pharmacology
Physiology

There are also inter-disciplinary topics covered in the exam, including:

Genetics
Aging
Nutrition
Immunology
Molecular and cell biology
Epidemiology
Medical ethics

The questions will test your ability to solve problems using scientific principles, as well as your understanding of basic facts and definitions.

70% of questions on Step 1 are now clinical vignettes – you need to learn how to apply your knowledge clinically.

Put your clinical reasoning skills to the test with a USMLE-Style Questions Bank for Step 1

How do I prepare for the USMLE Step 1?

The best preparation for the USMLE Step 1 is a thorough review of the content in the exam, which can be done through a reputable online Step 1 review course. These reviews include questions and resources created by medical experts, with the provision of detailed explanations for each topic.

When should I start studying for the USMLE Step 1?

Most medical schools suggest studying 6 to 8 weeks prior to taking the Step 1 exam. However, many students opt to begin studying further in advance, often studying alongside the pre-clinical classwork.

What is the USMLE Step 1 scoring process?

The USMLE Step 1 is scored on a 3-digit scale, ranging from 1 to 300, with most students scoring between 192 and 268.

What is the passing score for USMLE Step 1?

The passing score for the USMLE Step 1 is 194. The average score in 2018 was 230, with a standard deviation of 19.

What are the best USMLE Step 1 review courses.

A USMLE Step 1 review courses are such a good investment. Here are 5 of the best USMLE Step 1 review courses.

1. WolffPacc (www.wolfpacc.com/usmle/)

2. Lecturio (www.lecturio.com/usmle-step-1/)

3. Medical School Companion (www.medicalschoolcompanion.org/msc-course/)

4. Doctors in Training (www.doctorsintraining.com/shop/usmle-step-1/)

5. Gold USMLE Review (www.goldusmlereview.com/usmle-step-1/course/)

Which is the best USMLE tutoring service?

To ensure you’re best-placed for that high score, it’s worthwhile considering a USMLE tutoring service that fully prepares you for the arduous exam. Here’s a look at the top USMLE tutoring services available now.

1. Elite Medical Prep (www.elitemedicalprep.com)

2. Select Med Tutors (www.selectmedtutors.com)

3. USMLE Pro (www.usmlepro.com)

4. Medical School Companion (www.medicalschoolcompanion.org)

5. Med School Tutors (www.medschooltutors.com)

When are the USMLE Step 1 results released?

The results will take between 3 and 4 weeks to be released.

What are some of the best resources for the USMLE Step 1?

There are many great USMLE Step 1 review guides, question banks, online tutoring and review courses.

Read more: 5 USMLE Step 1 Exam Resources

How many times can I take the USMLE Step 1?

If you have taken the Step 1 or Step Component unsuccessfully six times, you are ineligible to take the Step 1 again.

What are the rules regarding USMLE Step 1 re-takes?

You can take the same examination no more than three times within a 12-month period. Your fourth, and subsequent attempts, must be at least 12 months after your first attempt, and at least six months after your most recent attempt at that exam. On successful completion of the Step 1, you cannot re-take the exam.

When do I need to take my USMLE Step 1, 2 and 3?

The Step 1 and 2 exams can be taken in any order, but the Step 3 can only be taken after Step 1 and Step 2. Traditionally, Step 1 is taken at the end of the second year, Step 2 at the end of the fourth year, and Step 3 in the first or second year of postgraduate training.

What are some free USMLE Step 1 questions and practice tests?

There are many reputable online institutions that offer USMLE Step 1 questions and practice tests, but these do come at a cost, depending on how long you want to subscribe. Fortunately, some of the online institutions offer free trials that give you access to free resources, as well as a sneak preview of what you can get if you decide to sign up.

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