Professional Exams

In order to support the success of medical students on the USMLE Step 1 examination, students will take a National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) Comprehensive Basic Science Exam in May of their second year. The intent of this examination is to familiarize students with the USMLE Step I Examination process by practicing a timed, proctored abbreviated version of the Step I Exam.  The scores are not be used as a formal grade, but serve as a benchmark to assess students’ readiness to take the Step I Exam.

"Step 2 CK assesses an examinee’s ability to apply medical knowledge, skills, and understanding of clinical science essential for the provision of patient care under supervision and includes emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention. Step 2 CK ensures that due attention is devoted to principles of clinical sciences and basic patient-centered skills that provide the foundation for the safe and competent practice of medicine under supervision.

Step 2 CK is a one-day examination. It is divided into eight 60-minute blocks and administered in one 9-hour testing session. The number of questions per block on a given examination will vary but will not exceed 40. The total number of items on the overall examination will not exceed 318." -USMLE website

At our institution you will sit for Step 2 CK after the conclusion of your year 3. A link to the eligibility policy is provided below.