Introduction

The concluding phase of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) series is known as USMLE Step 3. Spanning two days, this examination evaluates your proficiency in applying medical knowledge and grasping biological and clinical science concepts necessary for independent medical practice, with a particular emphasis on patient treatment in ambulatory settings.

When to Take USMLE Step 3

Step 3 is typically undertaken after the completion of medical school and residency training, serving as a prerequisite for obtaining an unrestricted medical license in the United States.

Structure of USMLE Step 3

The Step 3 exam comprises two parts:

Part 1: This segment encompasses 232 multiple-choice questions covering various topics such as patient management, history and physical examination, lab and diagnostic studies, diagnosis, prognosis, and pathophysiology.
Part 2: This part consists of 16 computer-based case simulations. Each simulation presents a patient scenario, prompting you to make decisions regarding the patient's care.
Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the USMLE Step 3 exam, you must meet the following criteria:

Successful completion of Steps 1 and 2 CK.
Graduation from a medical school listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS), or possessing the equivalent of a medical degree from a non-American or non-Canadian medical school.
Fulfillment of the requirements of a recognized US graduate medical education (GME) program, including completion or near-completion of at least one postgraduate training year, to qualify for a state board license.
International medical program graduates (IMGs) must obtain certification from the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) before completing Step 3.
Registration Process