The USMLE Step 1 is the first in a series of standardized exams required to earn medical licensure in the United States. Step 1 assesses your understanding of  important concepts of basic medical sciences. This computer-based test focuses on the principles and mechanisms of health, disease, and modes of therapy. Find answers to more Step 1 FAQs here →

To be eligible to take USMLE Step 1, you must be a current MD student or graduate of a LCME-accredited medical school in the US or Canada, OR a current DO student or graduate of an AOA-accredited medical school in the US, OR a medical student or graduate of a medical school outside the US listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools who meets the ECFMG’s eligibility criteria.

Step 1 is administered year-round, but you must register in advance. Many students take Step 1 at the end of their second year of medical school (around April). It is administered at Prometric testing centers around the world. For international medical graduates, we recommend doing the test at the end of your pre-clinical education.

As of January 26, 2022, the USMLE Step 1 exam is now scored as pass/fail. This decision was made by the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) and the National Board of Medical Examiners® (NBME®), co-sponsors of the USMLE.

The intent of this change is to reduce overemphasis on USMLE performance while continuing to provide a valid and reliable measure of understanding important fundamental science concepts for medical licensure.

Please note that the pass/fail scoring does not apply to USMLE Step 2 CK or Step 3. Those exams will continue to be numerically scored.

Learn more about the USMLE changes and the old way of USMLE scoring on Lecturio’s blog.

Step 1 is a computer-based multiple choice exam with up to 280 questions total. This exam is administered in seven 60-minute testing blocks with a maximum of 40 questions per block, with a total of 45 minutes of break time (reserved for authorized breaks and computer transitions between blocks). Questions are posed in multiple choice format, based on patient-centered vignettes, with a single best answer. Multiple answer options may be partially correct, but there is only one best answer. If you are unsure about an answer, it is better to make an educated guess as unanswered questions are automatically counted as incorrect answers.

Try free USMLE practice questions here → 

Step 1 is designed to measure your knowledge of basic science. This includes General Principles, Blood & Lymphoreticular/Immune System, Behavioral Health & Nervous Systems/Special Senses, Musculoskeletal, Skin & Subcutaneous Tissue, Cardiovascular System, Respiratory & Renal/Urinary Systems, Gastrointestinal System, Reproductive & Endocrine Systems, Multisystem Processes & Disorders, Biostatistics & Epidemiology / Population Health, and Communication and Interpersonal Skills.    
The exam is also organized by physician task and competency, such as medical knowledge, patient care (diagnosis), patient care (management), communication/professionalism, and practice-based learning and improvement. Further information on the content of the USMLE Step 1 exam can be found here.

Studying for the USMLE Step 1 exam can seem like a daunting task due to the breadth of content covered. What can help is understanding that it is not “just” about remembering content: Taking an organized approach and having your strategy in place early on can help tremendously. Here are some pieces of advice to keep in mind:

• Familiarize yourself with the format of the exam. It’s composed of multiple-choice questions based on patient-centered vignettes. You’ll have 7 blocks of 60 minutes each with a maximum of 40 questions per block.
• Follow a study schedule: Start studying well in advance of your test date, typically at least 6 months before. Break down your study schedule by topics and prioritize your weak areas.
• Use high-yield resources: Use resources designed specifically for USMLE Step 1 preparation. Comprehensive resources like Lecturio provide a complete package with Qbank, high-yield video lectures, Concept Pages, and Learning Paths.
• Practice with questions: One of the best ways to prepare for the Step 1 is to practice with as many questions as possible. Utilize the Qbank feature of your study resource. This will not only enhance your knowledge and make you apply concepts instead of just remembering them, but also help you become familiar with the exam’s format.
• Take breaks: Avoid burnout by taking short breaks during study sessions and longer breaks (like a full day off) every week.
• Simulate the exam conditions: Do a few full-length practice tests in conditions as close to the actual exam as possible. This can help you build stamina and get a feel for the timing of the actual test. A great opportunity are Lecturio’s self assessments.
• Stay positive: A positive mindset is very important for success. Confidence can come from thorough preparation and the belief that you can achieve your goal, as well as taking good care of your physical and mental health even during the stressful study period.
  
  Remember, everyone studies differently, so it’s important to find a routine that works best for you. Regular self-assessment is key to understanding where your strengths and weaknesses lie, and adjusting your study plan accordingly.
  
  Read more on how to study for the USMLE Step 1 on Lecturio’s student blog →
  

Lecturio offers several unique features that make it an attractive choice for medical students in the US preparing for their USMLE Step 1:

• Comprehensive resource: Lecturio provides a complete package of resources, including a Qbank, high-yield video lectures, Concept Pages, and Learning Paths, all designed specifically for USMLE Step 1 preparation.
• Powerful Qbank: Lecturio’s Qbank contains over 2,200 USMLE board-style questions with detailed explanations, high-quality illustrations, and First Aid references, allowing students to test their knowledge and improve their understanding of essential concepts.
• Expert-crafted Learning Paths: Lecturio’s Learning Paths are curated by top USMLE coaches and offer customizable schedules, clear instructions, and practice exams, making it easier for students to strategically plan their exam preparation.
• High-quality video lectures: Lecturio’s video lectures are created by expert educators, who deliver comprehensive and easy-to-understand content that simplifies complex USMLE Step 1 topics, ensuring thorough understanding.
• Comprehensive Concept Pages: The platform offers 1,450+ in-depth Concept Pages that are high-yield, up-to-date, and comprehensive with detailed images, charts, and tables, helping students master new medical concepts and reinforce their knowledge of challenging topics.
• Customizable schedules: Lecturio’s platform allows students to tailor their study schedules according to their unique needs and goals, ensuring efficient exam preparation.
• Flexibility: Lecturio is accessible on multiple devices, including computers and smartphones, allowing students to study anytime, anywhere.
• Subscription options: Lecturio offers various subscription plans to accommodate different budgets and study durations, with full access to all resources and a 10-day money-back guarantee on the 12-month and 24-month plans.

These features make Lecturio a comprehensive and convenient resource for medical students in the US preparing for their USMLE Step 1.