How Many USMLE Exams Are There?
The USMLE consists of three exams—all of which are required for medical licensure in the United States.
U.S. medical students take the USMLE Step 1 exam at the end of their second year or during their third year. USMLE Step 1 covers the basics of medical practice and principles.
The USMLE Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) section assesses medical students’ foundational knowledge of the clinical sciences curriculum. (Following a temporary suspension in 2020, the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) announced the permanent suspension of the Step 2 Clinical Skills (CS) examination in 2021. The USMLE Step 2 tests clinical knowledge only.)
USMLE Step 3 evaluates the ability to practice medicine without supervision. Most physicians take USMLE Step 3 during residency.