As previously announced, the United States Medical Licensing Examination® (USMLE®) program is transitioning to an updated test delivery software for the Step exams. As of May 7, 2026, these software updates are now in place for all Step 2 CK exams. All Step 1 exams administered on or after May 14, 2026, will use the new test delivery software. The software updates are already in place for all Step 3 exams.  

The new test delivery software offers improvements to the Step exam interface, including an updated design and improved keyboard navigation. It also offers some brand-new additions, including a settings menu and the ability to adjust the contrast on each image.   

The exam content, total number of items, and overall length of the tests remain unchanged. However, the exams have more blocks, and the blocks are shorter in length.  

Please note: Although exam results may be available two to four weeks after your test date, various factors may impact score reporting timelines. Therefore, when selecting your test date and inquiring about results, you should allow at least eight weeks to receive notification that your score report is available.    

The updated test delivery software is in response to feedback from examinees and their changing needs, as well as the USMLE program’s continuous efforts to look for tools to deliver the Step exams in the most efficient, reliable, and adaptable manner while also protecting the integrity of the assessments. 

The test delivery software updates provide examinees with a more consistent and familiar experience throughout their USMLE journey, as USMLE co-sponsor NBME’s self-assessments and other practice materials are already delivered with this software.    

The new testing experience tools and tutorials for all Step exams are available on USMLE.org.