About the USMLE Exams
About the USMLE Step 1 Exam
USMLE Step 1 is the first in the series of three USMLE exams that candidates must pass in order
to qualify for medical licensure in the United States. Step 1 assesses whether you understand and can 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. This exam ensures mastery of not only the sciences
that provide a foundation for the safe and competent practice of medicine in the present, but also the scientific
principles required for maintenance of competence through lifelong learning. Step 1 emphasizes traditional basic
science disciplines such as anatomy, behavioral sciences, biochemistry, microbiology, pathology, pharmacology, and
physiology. Interdisciplinary areas such as genetics, immunology, and molecular and cell biology are also tested.
- USMLE Easy Step 1 includes USMLE-format questions plus general knowledge
questions separately available.
About the USMLE Step 2 CK Exam
USMLE Step 2 CK is the second in the series of three USMLE exams that candidates must pass in order to
qualify for medical licensure in the United States. Step 2 CK assesses whether you can apply medical knowledge, skills,
and understanding of clinical science essential for the provision of patient care under supervision and includes
emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention. This exam ensures that due attention is devoted to principles
of clinical sciences and basic patient-centered skills that provide the foundation for the safe and competent
practice of medicine.
- USMLE Easy Step 2 CK includes USMLE-format questions plus general knowledge
questions separately available.
About the USMLE Step 3 Exam
USMLE Step 3 is the final exam in the series of the three that candidates must pass in order to qualify
for medical licensure in the United States. This exam assesses residents' 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. Step 3 provides a final assessment of physicians assuming independent
responsibility for delivering general medical care.
- USMLE Easy Step 3 includes USMLE vignette-format questions and general
knowledge questions separately available.