USMLE test or USMLE exam refers to the United States Medical Licensing Exam. It is a screening exam for medical students who want to obtain a medical license in the USA. It is sponsored by 2 regulatory bodies in the USA, the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) and the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME). It is a 3-step examination. It evaluates a physician’s ability to apply knowledge, principles and concepts to demonstrate fundamental patient-centred skills.
USMLE includes a 3-step examination. Which are
Step 1 and Step 2 examinations should appear while the student is in medical school. Step 3 is taken after he or she has graduated.
Step 1 evaluates whether a candidate understands and can apply important concepts of the sciences basic to the practice of medicine. Especially with emphasis on principles and mechanisms underlying health, disease, and modes of therapy.
Step 2 CK (Clinical Knowledge) evaluates student’s ability to apply medical knowledge, skills, and understanding of clinical science important for the provision of patient care but under supervision. This includes emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention.
USMLE Step 3 evaluates the knowledge and skills of an examinee who is assuming independent responsibility for providing general medical care to patients. This emphasis on patient management in ambulatory settings. Applicants should clear USMLE Steps 1, 2 CS, and 2 CK for completing Step 3. It is the final examination in the USMLE sequence resulting in a license to practice medicine without any supervision.
As we have already mentioned, the USMLE covers three steps. Separate application forms exist for every step. They have to apply to respective entities for registration. After applying, they have to schedule examination dates. Here is a guide for you:
USMLE Steps 1, 2 CK | USMLE Steps 1, 2 CK | USMLE Step 3 |
For graduates or students of AOA or LCME accredited medical courses in United States of America or Canada. | For graduates or students of medical schools outside United States of America and Canada. | All graduates of medical school who have successfully cleared Step 1 and step 2 CK |
Should apply at the official NBME website. | Should apply to IWA through ECFMG. | Should apply through FSM. |
Results are declared online by the USMLE, and officials release scorecards with candidates’ marks. Authorities also intimate all candidates about result availability. FSMB officials issue notifications when Step 3 results are updated. Electronic formats generate score reports, with results declared 3-4 weeks post exam completion.