Sequence of Steps
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you may take Step 1 and Step 2 CK in any sequence. You may take Step 3 only after passing Step 1 and Step 2 CK.
Preparing for the USMLE
The USMLE: Purpose, Format, and Length
Purpose
Assesses the examinee’s understanding of and ability to apply important concepts of the basic sciences to the practice of medicine, with special emphasis on principles and mechanisms underlying health, disease and modes of therapy
Format
Approximately 280 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), divided into seven 60-minute blocks
Length
One-day exam, approximately eight hours
Purpose
Assesses the examinee’s ability to apply medical knowledge, skills and understanding of clinical science essential for the provision of patient care under supervision, with an emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention
Format
Approximately 318 MCQs, divided into eight 60-minute blocks
Length
One-day exam, approximately nine hours
Purpose
Assesses the examinee’s ability to apply medical knowledge and understanding of biomedical and clinical science essential for the unsupervised practice of medicine, with emphasis on patient management in ambulatory settings
- Day 1: Foundations of Independent Practice (FIP)
- Assesses the examinee’s knowledge of basic medical and scientific principles essential for effective health care
- Day 2: Advanced Clinical Medicine (ACM)
- Assesses the examinee’s ability to apply comprehensive knowledge of health and disease in the context of patient management and the evolving manifestation of disease over time
Format
- Day 1: FIP
- Approximately 232 MCQs, divided into six 60-minute blocks
- Day 2: ACM
- Approximately 180 MCQs, divided into six 45-minute blocks and 13 computer-based case simulations (CCS); each simulation is allotted a maximum of 10 or 20 minutes of real time
How to Prepare
Sample items are available free of charge on the USMLE website under the section titled Prepare for Your Exam. You may also view free learning resources via NBME Unlocking Assessment videos or purchase an online self-assessment by visiting the Taking an NBME Assessment section of the NBME website. Practice materials and self-assessments are available to all USMLE examinees.
For more information on each Step, including applications, practice materials and updates, visit the USMLE website.