Do USMLE Steps have to be taken at particular points?
Do the Steps have to be taken at particular points during my medical education and career?
Most medical licensing authorities require completion of USMLE Steps 1, 2, and 3 within a seven-year period, which begins when you pass your first Step. Also, you must pass both Steps 1 and 2 before you are eligible to take Step 3. In LCME-accredited medical schools, although Steps 1 and 2 can be taken in any order, most students will take Step 1 at the end of their second year and Step 2 in their fourth year; Step 3 is usually taken during the first or second year of postgraduate training. Students and graduates of foreign medical schools who are eligible for ECFMG certification can take Step 1 and Step 2 in any order, but must pass both in order to take Step 3.
One can pass these steps through good preparation plan and can earn residency in the required medical field.
