2009 USMLE Bulletin - Preparing for the Test

SAMPLE TEST MATERIALS

The best preparation for the USMLE is a general, thorough review of the content reflected in the examination descriptions. You should also review further information on the examination content and test formats available on the USMLE website or from your registration entity and run the sample test materials available on the USMLE website or on the 2009 USMLE compact disc (CD). The 2009 USMLE CD is available through your registration entity.

There are no test preparation courses affiliated with or sanctioned by the USMLE program. Information on such courses is not available from the ECFMG, FSMB, NBME, USMLE Secretariat, or medical licensing authorities.

TEST LENGTHS AND FORMATS

• Step 1 has approximately 336 multiple-choice test items, divided into seven 60-minute blocks, administered in one eight-hour testing session.
• Step 2 CK has approximately 370 multiple-choice test items, divided into eight 60-minute blocks, administered in one nine-hour testing session.
• Step 2 CS has 12 patient cases. You will have 15 minutes for each patient encounter and 10 minutes to record each patient note. If you do not use the entire 15 minutes for the patient encounter, the remaining time will be added to the time you have to record the patient note. The testing session is approximately eight hours.
• Step 3 has approximately 480 multiple-choice test items, divided into blocks of 35 to 50 items. You will have 45 to 60 minutes to complete each of these blocks. There are approximately nine computer-based case simulations, with one case in each block. You will have a maximum of 25 minutes to complete each of these blocks. Step 3 is administered in two eight-hour testing sessions.

For Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 3 multiple-choice sections, during the defined time to complete the items in each block, you may answer the items in any order, review your responses, and change answers. After you exit the block, or when time expires, you can no longer review test items or change answers.

Step 2 CS cases and Step 3 case simulations must be taken in the order presented. After you exit the case or session, or when time expires, you can no longer review test items or cases, change answers, or collect additional information.

PRACTICING WITH THE SOFTWARE

For Steps 1, 2 CK, and 3, you should acquaint yourself with the test software well before your test date(s). Practice time is not available on the test day, and test center staff are not authorized to provide instruction on use of the software. A brief tutorial on the test day provides a review of the test software, including navigation tools and examination format, prior to beginning the test. It does not provide an opportunity to practice. Step 3 examinees should review the Primum CCS orientation materials and practice with all of the sample cases well in advance of the testing day to have a thorough understanding of how the software works.

Sample test materials to practice with the software (both multiple-choice questions and Primum CCS cases) are available to eligible applicants from their registration entity and at the USMLE website.

PRACTICE AT PROMETRIC TEST CENTERS

If you wish to experience some of the conditions of test administration for Step 1, Step 2 CK, or Step 3, you may schedule time to review sample test materials at a Prometric Test Center for a fee. Although shorter than an actual USMLE examination and containing the same sample test materials provided by the USMLE registration entities and at the USMLE website, this option allows you to experience USMLE sample test materials in the same environment as your actual test. After your registration for a Step or Step Component is complete and you have obtained your Scheduling Permit, you may register for a practice session for that examination by following the instructions at the USMLE website.