USMLE - A beginner's guide

What is USMLE?


USMLE, United States Medical Licensing Examination, is US based examination system to get license for practice in US. Medical students need to clear USMLE steps before applying for residency in U.S based hospitals. This 3-step examination aims to assess the ability to apply the knowledge, concept and ability to diagnose, treat and manage the patient in an effectice and patient-centered environment.
It is governed by NBME for American Medical Graduates (AMGs), and by the ECFMG, for the International Medical Graduates (IMGs).



STEP 1
Step 1 examines the basic knowledge of subjects like anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, pharmacology and behavioral sciences. It is a computer based examination, of 322 MCQs, it can be taken in different countries worldwide.

STEP 2
Step 2 is divided into two parts.
CK: it tests your clinical knowledge of the subjects like medicine, surgery, gynae and obs, and psychiatry. It is a computer based examination, of 400 MCQs. it can be taken in different countries worldwide.
CS: it tests your clinical skills through a simulated patient encounter. Patients with different scenarios are presented and you are supposed to take history and write down differential diagnosis. Meanwhile your attitude and behaviour towards the patient as well as your communication skills are judged and have an important contribution to your marks.
CS is the clinical/practical examination. It cannot be taken outside of the United States.

STEP 3

Step 3 consists of multiple choice and computer based simulations to assess a medical student or graduate’s application of their medical knowledge and understanding of biomedical and clinical science in managing patients in an unsupervised setting. The results of this exam demonstrate their ability to independently provide a standard of care to their patients.It consists of computer-based case simulations (CCS), a testing format that allows you to provide care for a simulated patient.
The Step 3 examination is organized in three organizing dimensions:

Normal conditions and disease categories (normal growth and development, basic concepts, and general principles)

Clinical encounter frame (initial work up, continuing care, urgent intervention)

Physician task (applying scientific concepts, formulating a diagnosis based on history, physical exam, and lab findings, and managing the patient).

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for Step 3, prior to submitting your application, you must:

obtain the MD degree (or its equivalent) or the DO degree,

pass Step 1, Step 2 CK, and, if required based upon the rules referenced below, Step 2 CS,

obtain certification by the ECFMG or successfully complete a "Fifth Pathway" program if you are a graduate of a medical school outside the United States and Canada (information on Fifth Pathway programs is available in ECFMG’s Information Booklet, and

meet the Step 3 requirements set by the medical licensing authority to which you are applying.

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