How many USMLE attempts I can do?

As of 2016, the total number of attempts you can take on a USMLE step or a step component is 6 attempts. However, you can't take the same component more than 3 times within 12 months period. You also have to wait for 6 months to take the 4th attempt after the failed 3rd one. You migh consider doing observership to get a better idea about how it works if you are repeatedly failing the CS component.

USMLE step 1 percentage of questions on each subject

The USMLE Step 1 questions distribution by percentage of each Subject have a breakdown similar to those you will face when preparing for the test from Kaplan, UW or NBME. Knowing this subject wise percentage is very important to know because this way you will be able to master the important ones and have a good review too on the less frequently asked subjects.

Based on our extensive experience with IMGs and available online question banks like UW, NBME and Kaplan we came up with the most near format to the real test breakdown. This is the USMLE Step 1 subject wise breakdown percentage:

Pathology 27%
Pharmacology 14%
Physiology 14%
Microbiology 10%
Anatomy 5%
Neuroanatomy 5%
Immunology 5%
Biochemistry 4%
Embryology 3%
Histology 3%
Behavioral science 3%
Medical Genetics 2%
Biostatistics 2%
Cell and Molecular Biology 2%
Medical Ethics 1%
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What is the time needed for studying for the USMLE exams?

Important question for planning your USMLE trip and preparation. We will be talking about somebody dedicating an average of 8 hours per day. So typically speaking this apply for graduates but also apply to medical students but on more prolonged period of time due to less available hours per day due to their busy schedule.

USMLE Step 1 will requires 7-9 months.

USMLE Step 2 CK needs 3-5 months.

USMLE Step 2 CS will take 1-2 months.

USMLE Step 3 requires 3-5 months.



It is important to setup studying plans to keep track of your progress.


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