USMLE® Step 1 Exam Guide
What is the USMLE?
USMLE® stands for the United States Medical Licensing Examination® and is comprised of a series of exams—Step 1, Step 2 CK, Step 2 CS, and Step 3. Medical students and graduates must pass each of these exams to obtain medical licensure in the United States. The USMLE is sponsored by the National Board of Medical Examiners® (NBME®) and the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB).
The USMLE’s purpose is to assess whether you can integrate and apply the knowledge, values, and skills you have gained in medical school. Successful completion of the USMLE helps demonstrate your competency as a soon-to-be practicing physician to licensing authorities.
What is on the USMLE Step 1?
The USMLE Step 1 is a multiple-choice exam that assesses your knowledge of the basic sciences, principles, and mechanisms underlying human health and disease. The USMLE program provides a Content Description outlining the distribution of disciplines and organ systems covered on the USMLE Step 1. Tested disciplines include:
- Anatomy and Embryology
- Genetics
- Biochemistry and Nutrition
- Histology and Cell Biology
- Physiology
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Histology
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
- Behavioral Sciences
How long is the USMLE Step 1?
- One-day examination divided into seven 60-minute blocks
- Administered in one 8-hour testing session
- Maximum of 40 questions per block
- Maximum of 280 questions on the overall examination
When should I take the USMLE Step 1?
When should I start studying for the USMLE Step 1?
How do I study for the USMLE Step 1?
Start by familiarizing yourself with the 2020 USMLE Bulletin of Information, which contains essential information such as eligibility requirements, test scheduling, exam procedure, and score reporting. To study for the USMLE Step 1, most medical students use a QBank alongside a comprehensive review book.
We recommend our USMLE Step 1 learning platform, the number one QBank for medical students. Our active learning methodology will help you master the information you need to know to pass Step 1, and it will also help you gain a solid foundation of knowledge for future clinical success.
How is the USMLE Step 1 scored?
What is the USMLE Step 1 passing score?
How soon do I get my USMLE Step 1 results?
According to the 2020 USMLE Bulletin of Information, it typically takes 3-4 weeks to receive your Step 1 score.