USMLE

Embarking on your journey to practice medicine in the United States through the USMLE exam requires careful planning. However, it’s important to note that there are no fixed USMLE 2023 exam dates. Instead, aspiring doctors have the flexibility to select an eligibility period within which they can take the exam. Let’s dive into the details.

The concept of USMLE exam dates in 2023 may seem misleading, as they are not predetermined dates for the exam itself. Instead, they refer to the timeframe in which you can schedule and take your USMLE exam. This flexible system ensures that candidates can choose a period that aligns with their readiness and personal circumstances.

When selecting your eligibility period, keep in mind that the first week of January and major holidays are not available options. Despite the USMLE exam being available throughout the year, these specific timeframes are excluded. However, you have the freedom to choose an eligibility period that suits your needs within the remaining timeframe.

After you have determined the eligibility period for the Step or Step component you are planning to take, you will receive a scheduling permit. This permit serves as your ticket to scheduling your exam through the appropriate website. It’s important to note that scheduling is subject to availability, as slots within each eligibility period are limited and may fill up quickly.

Each step of the USMLE 2023 has its eligibility period, and it is crucial to be aware of this during your registration process. Once you have registered, received your scheduling permit, and identified available exam dates, you can confidently schedule your test. Remember, securing your preferred slot within the eligibility period is essential to ensuring a smooth and successful examination experience.

Step Component	Eligibility period and scheduling test date
Step 1 and Step 2 CK	1.     The candidate has to select a 3-month eligibility period (eg, January – March) during which they wish to take the test 2.     On successful registration, a scheduling permit and eligibility period will be issued. 3.     The candidate next needs to visit the Prometric website to schedule the test. Note that scheduling is not allowed six months in advance.
Step 2 CS	1.     Candidates who apply for this step will be issued a 12-month eligibility period. The eligibility period starts with acceptance of application form and verification of eligibility 2.     On completion of registration, scheduling permits and eligibility permits will be issued. 3.     Visit the USMLE website to schedule a test date.
Step 3	1.     When applying for the exam, the applicant has to select a three-month eligibility period during which he/she wishes to take the test (eg, January – March). 2.     On acceptance of application, scheduling permit and eligibility period will be issued. 3.     Go to the Prometric website and schedule a test date.

Step	Fees	How to apply
Step 1	$965 – Examination Fee + International Test Delivery Surcharge, if testing outside the United States and Canada	Apply through ECFMG on IWA (Interactive Web Applications)
Step 2 CK	Step 2 CK$965 – Examination Fee + International Test Delivery Surcharge, if testing outside the United States and Canada	Apply through ECFMG on IWA
Step 2 CS	$1,600 – Examination Fee	Apply through ECFMG on IWA
Step 3	$895	Apply through FSMB.

Understanding the USMLE Components and Eligibility Criteria

The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) consists of three main steps: Step 1, Step 2, and Step 3. Step 2 is further divided into Clinical Skills (CS) and Clinical Knowledge (CK). As an aspiring medical professional, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the USMLE eligibility criteria applicable to Indian students for each step and component. Notably, the eligibility requirements for Step 1 and Step 2 of the USMLE in 2023 are quite similar. Moreover, candidates are allowed to take Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 2 CS in any order they prefer. However, Step 3 has distinct eligibility criteria, requiring candidates to have successfully completed Step 1 and Step 2 components before attempting it. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the USMLE requirements for international students, continue reading.

Step-by-Step USMLE Eligibility Criteria for 2023

• Step 1 and Step 2 Eligibility Criteria

To meet the eligibility criteria for Step 1 and Step 2 of the USMLE, candidates must satisfy the following conditions:

1. Official Enrollment or Graduation: Candidates should be officially enrolled in or have graduated from a medical school outside the United States and Canada that is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools, satisfying the ECFMG eligibility requirements.
2. Fulfillment of ECFMG Criteria: In addition to the first condition, candidates must meet any other criteria mandated by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG).

• Additional Details:

Candidates must fulfill the eligibility requirements both at the time of application and on the day of the examination. It is important to note that individuals who have been dismissed or voluntarily withdrawn from medical school, regardless of their ongoing challenges or status contestations, are ineligible to take the USMLE.

• Step 3 Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for Step 3 of the USMLE in 2023, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:

1. Holding an MD or Equivalent Degree: Candidates must possess an MD or a comparable medical degree from a medical school outside the United States and Canada, which is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools and meets the ECFMG eligibility requirements.
2. Successful Completion of Previous Steps: Candidates must have passed Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 2 CS to qualify for Step 3.
3. ECFMG Certification: Additionally, candidates need to be ECFMG certified.

By understanding and meeting these eligibility criteria, aspiring medical professionals can ensure their eligibility to take the USMLE in 2023 and progress toward their medical career goals.

Anatomy	Pathology
Behavioral Sciences	Pharmacology
Biochemistry	Physiology
Biostatistics and Epidemiology	Microbiology

The following interdisciplinary areas are also covered in the USMLE 2023 step 1:

Genetics	Aging
Immunology	Nutrition
Molecular and Cell Biology

 

Genetics	Aging
Immunology	Nutrition
Molecular and Cell Biology

USMLE Step 1 Syllabus

System	Range
General Principles of Foundational Science	15% – 20%
1. Immune System 2. Blood & Lymphoreticular System 3. Behavioral Health 4. Nervous System & Special Senses 5. Skin & Subcutaneous Tissue 6. Musculoskeletal System 7. Cardiovascular System 8. Respiratory System 9. Gastrointestinal System 10. Renal & Urinary System 11. Pregnancy, Childbirth, & the Puerperium 12. Female Reproductive & Breast 13. Male Reproductive 14. Endocrine System	60% – 70%
1. Multisystem Processes & Disorders 2. Biostatistics & Epidemiology 3. Population Health 4. Social Sciences	15%– 20%
Process	Range
Normal Processes	10% – 15%
Abnormal Processes	55% – 60%
Principles of Therapeutics	15% – 20%
Other	10% – 15%

USMLE Step 1 Physician Competencies

Competency	Range
Medical Knowledge/Scientific Concepts	55% – 65%
Patient Care: Diagnosis
History/Physical Examination
Laboratory/Diagnostic Studies
Diagnosis
Prognosis/Outcome
20% – 30%
Patient Care: Management***
Health Maintenance/Disease Prevention
Pharmacotherapy
15%-20%
Communication
Professionalism	2%–5%
Practice-based Learning and Improvement	4%–8%

This is how you go about the USMLE step 1 registration

For students/graduates of LCME or COCA accredited medical programs in the USA or Canada	For students/graduates of medical schools outside the US and Canada
Apply through NBME	Apply through ECFMG

Embark on your USMLE journey with confidence, knowing that you have the flexibility to choose an eligibility period that aligns with your preparations and personal commitments. Keep track of available slots and make your reservation promptly to optimize your chances of securing your preferred exam date. Good luck!