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Step 1 Format
USMLE Step 1 covers content in the following areas: anatomy, behavioral sciences, biochemistry, microbiology, pathology, pharmacology, physiology, and interdisciplinary topics, such as nutrition, genetics, and aging. Test items require students to interpret material contained in graphs and tables, identify both gross and microscopic pathologic and normal specimens, and apply knowledge of science to clinical problems. Theoretically, the maximum score for Step 1 is 300, but the average hovers around 215, and a score of 188 must be obtained for passing. Although it is just one of many factors considered, medical students must submit their scores when applying for residency. Step 2 FormatStep 2 CK covers content in the following areas: internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, preventive medicine, psychiatry, surgery, and other areas relevant to provision of care under supervision. Most Step 2 CK questions describe clinical situations, requiring students to provide a diagnosis, a prognosis, an indication of underlying mechanisms of disease, the next step in medical care, or a combination of the four. Like Step 1, Step 2 CK frequently expects test-takers to provide accurate tabular, graphic, and data interpretations. It also requires interpretation of imaging studies and photographs of gross and microscopic pathologic specimens.
Step 2 CS assesses clinical skills essential for safe and effective patient care. It involves 12 simulated patient interactions with actors trained to behave in a standardized way. There are three subcomponents of Step 2 CS. The first is Integrated Clinical Encounter, which includes data gathering (collecting information from taking histories and by analyzing physical examinations and documentation), completion of patient notes summarizing the findings of the patient encounter, diagnostic impression, and initial patient work-up. The second subcomponent is Communication and Interpersonal Skills, in which questioning skills, information-sharing skills, and professional manner and rapport are reviewed. The third subcomponent is Spoken English Proficiency which measures the clarity of communication within the doctor-patient context. Step 2 CS is only offered in five cities across the United States: Philadelphia, Chicago, Atlanta, Houston, and Los Angeles. Step 3
Step 3 of the USMLE is designed to assess residents’ preparedness to become practicing physicians. Each test item is organized along two basic dimensions: clinical encounter frame and physician task. The encounter frames describe the circumstances under which the physician meets the patient, varying the context (initial care, continued care, and emergency care) and the venue (clinics, offices, emergency departments, hospitals, and on the telephone). Each test item also includes a physician task, such as taking a history, performing a physical examination, or appropriating a prognosis and management plan. On the second day of testing, there are Primum computer-based real-time case simulations (CCS), in which test-takers decide which diagnostic information to obtain from a simulated patient and how to treat and monitor that patient. The condition of the patient changes according to the decisions entered by the resident. At the close of each CCS, the computer scores the resident’s performance. Our Approach to USMLE TutoringMed School Tutors offers personalized USMLE preparation from only the most qualified and effective tutors. Our USMLE preparation program typically includes:
Our USMLE TutorsOur USMLE tutors are selected for their extensive knowledge of the Step Exams and their outstanding ability to translate their USMLE success into superior scores for their students. Med School Tutors instructors have attended some of the country’s top medical schools, including Columbia and NYU. In order to achieve success on the exam and thereby obtain the residency and fellowship you desire, what you need from your tutor is results. Med School Tutors instructors have all scored exceptionally high on their USMLE exams (250s and 260s), and have since spent time reviewing, reevaluating, and most importantly teaching the content and skills covered by the exams. Further InformationFor additional information, or to register for Med School Tutors’ customized USMLE tutoring, click here . |
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Med School Tutors is truly an asset. My tutor Matt really helped me focus on and improve my weakest areas in order to successfully pass the USMLE Step 1. Not only was my tutor superb, but the support from John and Rob was amazing. They were very involved in my progress, and they made sure I was getting what I needed from my sessions. I am deeply grateful for all of their efforts, and I would highly recommend them to anyone who wants to achieve their dreams of becoming a physician. 