How Long is the USMLE?

The USMLE is divided into 3 Steps: Step 1: Basic Sciences 1-day exam Step 2: Clinical Knowledge 1-day exam Step 3: Final Assessment 2-day exam

Step 1 is a 1-day exam that is usually taken at the end of the 2nd year of medical school. It is divided into seven 60-minute blocks over an 8-hour testing session. The number of questions per block varies but will not exceed 40.

USMLE Step 1

Step 2 is generally taken during the 4th year of medical school. It is a 1-day exam divided into eight 60-minute blocks over a 9-hour testing session. The number of questions per block vary but will not exceed 40.

USMLE Step 2

Generally taken at the end of the first year of residency, Step 3 is a 2-day exam and the final assessment. Day 1 includes 232 multiple-choice items divided into 6 blocks of 60 minutes each.

USMLE Step 3 Day 1

Day 2 comprises 180 multiple-choice items, divided into 6 blocks of 30 items; 45 minutes are allotted for completion of each block of test items. There is then a 7-minute CCS tutorial, which is followed by 13 case simulations. Each of these should be answered within 10-20 minutes.

USMLE Step 3 Day 2

Want to boost your USMLE preparation? Our USMLE experts provide 1-1 support for each step of the exam.

USMLE 1-1 Tutoring

Book a FREE consultation today!