Sage-Tips

Can you match if you fail Step 1?

While it may be disappointing to fail the USMLE® Step 1, the good news is that you are not alone. Failing the exam does not mean you won’t match into a residency program. You may attempt Step 1 up to six times but you can only take it no more than three times within a 12-month period.

Can you take step 1 twice?

You can retake USMLE Step 1 up to six times if you’ve failed. You can take Step 1 a maximum of three times within a span of 12 months. Your fourth attempt and any beyond that must be at least 12 months after your first attempt. Also, they must be at least six months after your third attempt.

Do most people pass USMLE Step 1?

Failing USMLE Step 1 is not uncommon. The most recent data available from the USMLE shows that in 2018 the passing rates for 1st time test takers with a US or Canadian MD degree was 95\%; with a US or Canadian DO degree was 96\%; and for non-US or Canadian degrees was 80\%.

Can I retake Usmle step 2 if I fail?

If you fail or do not complete a Step and want to retake it, you must reapply by submitting a new application and fee. You may take the failed or incomplete Step no more than three times within a 12-month period.”

What happens if you fail Step 1 twice?

A student who has failed Step 1 twice must retake the exam for the third time and final time within 24 months of the end of that student’s second year coursework. This may result in a student having a different third year clerkship sequence and/or schedule than originally planned.

Will Step 1 pass/fail affect IMG?

Classically, IMGs and USMGs have used Step 2 CK as a chance to redeem a weaker Step 1 score. Now that Step 1 will be pass/fail, most IMGs will only have the Step 2 CK with which to show off their strength as an applicant. However, unlike USMGs, many IMGs can take the USMLE Step 3 exam before applying to residency.

Will multiple USMLE exam attempts affect my chances of matching?

While USMLE exam attempts are not ideal to have on your USMLE transcript, they are not considered primary factors residency Program Directors and Interview Committees look at when examining residency candidates. It is still more than possible for a residency candidate to Match with multiple attempts.

What happens if you fail the USMLE Step 1?

For example, if you have a failed attempt on your USMLE Step 1, programs will be much more likely to overlook the failure if you score very well on your USMLE Step 2 CK.

How important are USMLE Step 1 scores in residency selection?

Although USMLE Step 1 scores have been viewed as overemphasized in the residency selection process, this shows that other factors are contributing to students’ success in securing a residency position even in highly competitive specialties.

Is there a gap between your USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CKS?

Unfortunately, this, and other factors, can result in a gap between you USMLE Step 1 and USMLE Step 2 CK scores. The two gaps you can have are: While the first scenario is actually ideal and proves you have the capacity to improve, the second scenario can be much more difficult to express to Program Directors and Interview Committees.