Guide to Using UWorld For Step 2 CK
This blog was originally posted on January 17, 2023, and updated in December 2024. Growing up, my studying always seemed to follow a natural sequence: learn new content, review that content, and then quiz yourself on that content with practice questions. The idea of beginning with the end, i.e.,...
The Role of Clinical Knowledge in USMLE Step 2 CK Success
Your journey through medical school is characterized by rigorous academic challenges coupled with hands-on learning. Arguably, one of the most significant hurdles for medical students to overcome is the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK). The USMLE Step 2 assesses students' ability to apply clinical...
The Complete Step 2 CK Breakdown by Subject and How to Plan For Each Subject
This blog was originally posted on November 22, 2022, and updated by Dr. Ria Patel in November 2024. The USMLE Step 2 CK is a challenging exam that tests a wide range of clinical knowledge and skills across multiple subjects. Understanding the Step 2 CK breakdown by subject is...
When to Take Step 2 CK for the 2026 Residency Match
The Step 2 CK exam score is one of the top factors residency programs use when selecting candidates to interview. Most students in the United States take the USMLE Step 2 CK after their third-year clinical rotations—typically between May and July—to align with residency application timelines. This schedule ensures you...
Beyond Passing: How to Approach USMLE Step 2 CK Scoring for a Higher Score
Scoring high on these exams will open doors for applicants. Scoring high on an exam means understanding what’s being tested and how you’ll be scored.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Acquiring USMLE Test Accommodations
Navigating the USMLE is not an easy task in and of itself. Add on to that a need for testing accommodations, and it may well feel impossible. While the process can certainly be difficult, it’s not impossible. This blog offers a few simple steps to help you navigate the process...
Do Osteopathic DO Students Need to Take USMLE Step Exams?
Historically, DO students were recommended to take both the COMLEX and USMLE Step exams (specifically Step 1 and Step 2 CK) in order to be competitive for residency applications. However, now that both COMLEX Level 1 and Step 1 have become pass/fail, DO students wonder if they should still take...
The Experts Weigh In: Survey Results on the Best Way to Study The Week Before Step 2
Step 2 Studying: The Week Before Test Day Advice So you’ve been studying for weeks or even months for your Step 2 exam… you are SO close, yet so far away. With only a week left before the big day, you may be asking yourself, “How should I spend...
US Doctor Specialties by USMLE Step 2 CK Scores
With the change of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1 transitioning to an entirely pass-fail examination, more emphasis has been placed on the USMLE Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (Step 2 CK) score in the residency selection process. While your Step 2 score is not the only factor that programs...
USMLE Step 2 CK: 8 Tips to Ace the Test
What are Our Top Tips to Get a Good Score on Step 2 CK? USMLE Step 2 CK is a difficult exam but manageable if you have the right resources and Step 2 study plan to utilize during your dedicated period. Getting a “good score” on Step 2 CK...