2025 Guide to Interpreting NBME Practice Exams for Step 1 and Step 2
Almost all students preparing for the USMLE Step 1 or Step 2 will take at least one (hopefully more!) practice test leading up to test day. While various practice tests are available to assess your performance, many students will turn directly to the NBME practice tests to estimate their chances...
NBME 26-NBME 31: Which is the Best Predictor for Passing Step 1
This blog was originally published on March 21, 2023, and was updated in September 2025 with new information. There are innumerable resources available for Step 1 preparation. No one study approach will work for everyone or guarantee success. Whatever plan or resources you decide to use, everyone will need to...
How to Tackle the Hardest USMLE Step 1 Topics: A Tutor’s Guide
As many have said before, preparing for the USMLE Step 1 can feel like trying to drink from a firehose. And while some topics may come easily, others feel like they were designed in a secret lab just to test your sanity. As a tutor, I’ve worked with dozens of...
How to Stay Motivated Throughout COMLEX Level 1 Preparation
Studying for COMLEX Level 1 is a unique kind of marathon - equal parts knowledge, endurance, strategy, and mindset. As you gear up for what might feel like the most important test of your life (so far!), it’s completely normal to ride the wave of emotional highs and lows. Some...
Applying to US Medical Schools as an International Student
A Step-by-Step Guide for International Students Applying to U.S. Medical Schools International students can and do regularly matriculate to medical school in the United States. However, applying as an international student presents unique challenges. According to MSAR (Medical School Admission Requirements) and AACOM (American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine),...
You Just Found Out Your USMLE Step 1 Score! Now What?
Congratulations! You did it! You took USMLE Step 1, the test you spent months studying for, and now you’re anxiously awaiting that email notification telling you that your Step 1 score is available. So now what?
What to Look For in a Residency Program
Residency application is fast approaching and students need to decide which programs they want to apply to and ultimately interview at. When compiling a list of these programs, there are several key factors that ought to be kept in mind.
Active Recall and Spaced Repetition for Step 1
Active Recall and Spaced Repetition for Step 1: Why They Work (and How to Start) If you’re in medical school, you’ve probably heard people talk about active recall and spaced repetition like they’re some kind of magical learning tools. And honestly? They kind of are - if you use them...
MCAT Score: How is the MCAT Scored?
MCAT scoring of this multiple-choice test consisting of four sections spanning critical reading to chemistry can often mystify those new to the medical school application process. As the MCAT score is a large part of the medical school application, it is important to understand how the test is designed and scored prior to taking the exam and applying to medical school.
AMBOSS vs. UWorld: Which is a Better USMLE Resource?
This blog was originally written by Dr. Chris Bassil in May 2022, and was updated for accuracy by Dr. Ria Patel on August 7, 2025. As a board exam tutor, the first meeting I have with almost any new student involves a discussion of their study schedule and resources. During...