What is Covered in USMLE Step 1?
The USMLE Step 1 exam tests foundational medical knowledge in the following areas:
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Basic Sciences: Anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, pathology, and pharmacology.
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High-Yield Topics: Antibiotic therapy, bacteria, inborn errors of metabolism, diabetes, airways and lungs, congenital immunodeficiency disorders, virology, and epidemiology.
How to Study for Step 1?
Best Study Resources
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UWorld: Considered the gold standard for USMLE preparation.
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First Aid for the USMLE Step 1: Essential for memorizing high-yield facts.
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NBME Self-Assessments: Helps gauge readiness and identify weak areas.
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AMBOSS: Excellent for in-depth explanations and additional practice.
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Osmosis: Provides visual learning tools and concept reinforcement.
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Medlearnity: Offers guidance on how to combine resources effectively.
Study Strategies
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Combine different resources to reinforce concepts.
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Use small question pools to identify weaknesses.
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Take full-length practice exams to simulate test conditions.
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Review incorrect questions thoroughly to avoid repeating mistakes.
How to Apply for Step 1?
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Visit the USMLE website to register and find application details.
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Follow the instructions to create an account and submit necessary documents.
When and Where to Take Step 1?
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Step 1 is available throughout the year at Prometric Testing Centers worldwide.
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Scheduling and locations are available on the USMLE website.
What Score Do You Need for Residency?
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Step 1 is now pass/fail (as of 2022).
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A passing result is required to proceed with Step 2 CK and remain competitive in residency applications.
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Step 2 CK has now become more critical for residency selection.
What Happens If You Fail Step 1?
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You can retake the exam after a mandatory waiting period.
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Schools may impose additional restrictions based on institutional policies.
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Failing multiple times can impact residency applications, so thorough preparation is crucial.
How Has COVID-19 Impacted Step 1?
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Initially, there were scheduling disruptions and testing center closures.
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The exam format remains unchanged, but remote proctoring options are being explored for future flexibility.
Additional Considerations for Step 1 Preparation
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Experimental Questions: Some questions do not count toward your final score.
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Time Management: Mastering timed practice exams will improve exam day performance.
Recommended Resources Bank
🔗 USMLE Official Website - Official registration and test details
🔗 UWorld USMLE Qbank - The best practice question resource
🔗 First Aid for the USMLE Step 1 - Must-have study guide
🔗 **NBME Self-Assessments ** - Helps predict real exam performance
🔗 AMBOSS USMLE Step 1 Kit - High-yield topics & explanations
🔗 Osmosis Step 1 Preparation - Visual learning aids
🔗 Medlearnity USMLE Prep - Study strategies & coaching
🔥 Exclusive Step 1 Recalls & High-Yield Notes 🔥
🚀 Get access to the latest USMLE Step 1 recalls, past papers, and high-yield notes:
✅ USMLE Step 1 Recalls -
✅ Shelf Clinical Exam Recalls -
✅ Shelf Subject Exam Recalls -
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Stay ahead and ace your Step 1! 💯