USMLE Step 2 CK 2024 Exam Dates and Costs

What is the USMLE Step 2 CK Exam?

USMLE Step 2 CK (Clinical Knowledge) is an examination conducted by the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) and the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) in the United States. It is one of the steps required for medical licensure in the US, along with Step 1. In this post, we will go over some of the most commonly asked questions surrounding the USMLE Step 2 CK, including dates and costs.

Step 2 CK assesses a candidate’s ability to apply medical knowledge, skills, and understanding of clinical science in the care of patients. It is a computer-based multiple-choice exam consisting of approximately 318 questions, and it takes approximately 9 hours to complete. The exam covers a broad range of topics, including internal medicine, surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, psychiatry, and preventive medicine. It also includes questions related to patient safety, medical ethics, and legal issues.

Medical students typically take Step 2 CK after they have finished their core rotations (third or fourth year). It is an important component of the residency application process, as residency programs often use a candidate’s Step 1 and Step 2 CK scores as part of their selection criteria. With the recent transition of Step 1 from scored to pass/fail, residency programs will likely focus more on Step 2 CK scores when considering applicants.

For a comprehensive Step 2 study planner, check out our free 4-week plan.

Fill out the form below to receive your free 4-week Step 2 study planner via email!

What are USMLE Step 2 CK Test Dates?

Usually, students take Step 2 between their third and fourth years of medical school. However, students might be changing these patterns with the transition of Step 1 to Pass/Fail. Additionally, students may take Step 1 and Step 2 CK in any order. However, we usually recommend that students take Step 1 before Step 2 CK. Step 2 CK does not have fixed test dates. Students need to procure a registration permit which gives them the license to schedule the test in a 3-month eligibility period. You can schedule your test through the Prometric website which provides students with dates, times, and locations within their specific eligibility period. Prometric center closures can be tracked on this website: https://www.prometric.com/closures. Additional information on potential dates and locations for both US and international students can be found at this website: https://www.prometric.com/test-takers/search/usmle.

What is the Scope of Maths on Step  2 CK?

The Step 2 CK exam has elementary mathematics. There is a small percentage of questions on the exam that will require calculations (eg: biostatistics). However, the math is not more advanced than the level of simple arithmetic. It is easily done using a four-function calculator. The calculator is built into the examination and can be used to solve these questions. Attaining familiarity with the calculator before exam day will certainly help in making the experience of using the calculator even easier.

How Long is the Exam?

The Step 2 CK exam is a multiple-choice test that consists of approximately 318 questions. It is taken over one day~9 hours. It has 45 minutes for breaks and 15 minutes for exam tutorial time. If you watch the tutorial in advance at home, you will have 60 minutes of break time to split and use as you see fit during your exam. There will be eight sixty-minute blocks. Each block can have up to 40 questions giving you approximately 90 seconds per question.

How Much Does the USMLE Step 2 CK Cost?

For students in the US, there is a ~$1000 testing fee. An international surcharge (~$200) may be added for students outside the US. Additional costs include costs of traveling to and from the testing center, and accommodations if testing is far from home. Finally, additional charges may apply for rescheduling the exam.

What to Wear for the USMLE?

We recommend that you dress comfortably. You should wear comfortable clothes that are appropriate for a prolonged period of testing. Note that each testing center may have specific recommendations on attire. You should call the testing center in advance and request answers to your questions about clothing. Note that wearing some clothing like hoodies might increase the time needed to enter and exit the testing room so plan accordingly.  

It is important to avoid wearing anything that may cause discomfort or distraction during the exam. You should also consider the weather and dress accordingly. For example, you may want to bring a sweater or light jacket in case the exam room is cool. Additionally, it is a good idea to wear comfortable shoes, as you may be sitting for an extended period of time.

For more help studying for your Step 2 CK exam, working through tough material, and more, consider enlisting the help of a Step 2 CK tutor! Schedule your complimentary consultation today to hear more about how Elite Medical Prep can help you succeed!