The USMLE Step 1 exam tests how well you can apply basic, science concepts to clinical scenarios. These sample items are standard USMLE Step 1 type questions.
Registration for the Steps 1 and 2 CK Exams
International medical graduates must register for Steps 1 and 2 CK through the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). Registering and scheduling your exam date is a multi-step process:
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Secure the application materials
The ECFMG will require official copies of various documents including your medical diploma and transcripts. -
Complete the application and submit with your application fee and a recent photo
As part of the application process you will be asked to choose a 3-month "eligibility period" during which you want to take the exams. Once your eligibility period has been assigned, you will need to take your exam during that period of time or you will lose your application fee. Once you submit your application, it will take 4-6 weeks for processing. -
Receive your Scheduling Permit
Once your application is processed, you will receive a Scheduling Permit. This permit will tell you the start and end dates of your 3-month eligibility period, instructions on scheduling your exam, as well as your Scheduling Number and your Candidate Identification Number. -
Schedule your test date directly with the Prometric centre
Your Scheduling Permit will have instructions on contacting the Prometric centre to select your test date (must be within eligibility period).
Registration for the Step 2 CS Exam
Step 2 CS registrations are on a first come first served basis with no preference given to US students. Examinees will be able to choose their date and location. Once registered, there will be a 12-month eligibility period. Test dates can be rescheduled on an unlimited basis; however, the following fees apply:
- Up to 30 days = $50
- Within 30 days = $150
- No shows on exam day = $400. The exam fee for IMGs is $1200.
Registering to take the Step 2 CS and scheduling your exam date is a multi-step process:
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Obtain an application form.
IMGs may apply online at www.ecfmg.org or with a paper application. Step 2 CS paper application forms are available as part of the ECFMG information booklet. If sending a paper application, you must complete it in its entirety and send it (with the $1200 IMG Step 2 CS registration fee) to the ECFMG in the envelope they provide. -
Receive a Notification of Registration.
When you receive this Notification, you are eligible to schedule your test date. You must schedule your test date within your 12-month eligibility period. -
Schedule your test date.
There are two ways to schedule your test date:
1) by phone (+1-215-966-3574), where you can schedule your date with an operator; or
2) on the web site of your registration entity (NBME -- www.nbme.org, or ECFMG -- www.ecfmg.org), where you will be walked through an online scheduling process. Remember that you can't use either method until you've received your Notification of Registration.
Registration for Step 3
Unlike the Step 1 and Step 2 examinations, the individual state medical boards administer the Step 3 eligibility requirements, and application procedures vary among the states. You should request specific information directly from the medical board of the state where you wish to be licensed, or from the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSME). Note that most of the states have designated the Federation as the initial contact for Step 3 application information.
FSMB
Department of Examination Services
400 Fuller Wiser Road,
Suite 300
Euless, TX 76039-3855
United States
+1(817) 868-4041
www.fsmb.org
