If you are planning to become a licensed medical professional in the United States, then passing the USMLE Step 2 exam is a crucial step towards achieving your goal. The USMLE Step 2 exam is divided into two parts: Step 2 CK (Clinical Knowledge) and Step 2 CS (Clinical Skills). In this article, we will focus on Step 2 CK, which is a multiple-choice examination that assesses a candidate's clinical knowledge and skills.
Exam Objectives:
- Assess the candidate's ability to apply medical knowledge, skills, and understanding of clinical science essential for the provision of patient care under supervision.
- Evaluate the candidate's ability to formulate a differential diagnosis, and a management plan based on patient history, physical examination, and clinical findings.
- Assess the candidate's ability to communicate effectively with patients, families, and healthcare professionals.
Exam Details:
- Exam Name: USMLE Step 2 CK (Clinical Knowledge)
- Cost: $645 (as of 2023)
- Passing Score: The passing score for Step 2 CK is 209 (as of 2023)
- Time: The exam duration is 9 hours. The test is divided into eight 60-minute blocks, with 45 minutes of break time.
- Delivery Method: The exam is administered via computer-based testing (CBT) at Prometric testing centers.
- Format: The exam consists of approximately 318 multiple-choice questions, divided into eight sections. The questions are designed to test the candidate's knowledge in a variety of areas, including internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, surgery, psychiatry, and more.
Who should take the exam?
The USMLE Step 2 CK exam is designed for medical students and graduates who have completed their clinical rotations and are seeking to obtain a medical license in the United States. It is also recommended for international medical graduates (IMGs) who wish to practice medicine in the US.
Prerequisites and Qualifications:
To take the USMLE Step 2 CK exam, candidates must have passed the Step 1 exam. Additionally, candidates must have completed their clinical rotations and be enrolled in, or have completed, a medical school program that is accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) or the American Osteopathic Association (AOA). International medical graduates must also meet the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) requirements.
Related Books:
There are many books and resources available to help candidates prepare for the USMLE Step 2 CK exam. Some of the most popular books include:
- Kaplan USMLE Step 2 CK Lecture Notes
- First Aid for the USMLE Step 2 CK
- Master the Boards USMLE Step 2 CK
- Crush Step 2: The Ultimate USMLE Step 2 Review
- Case Files Internal Medicine
These books cover a variety of topics tested in the exam and provide practice questions and review material to help candidates prepare effectively.
Passing the
USMLE Step 2 CK exam requires a thorough understanding of clinical concepts and the ability to apply that knowledge to various scenarios. Along with studying from the recommended books, it is also recommended that candidates take practice exams to become familiar with the exam format and identify areas where they need to improve. There are several practice exams available online, including those offered by the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME).
In conclusion, passing the USMLE Step 2 CK exam is a critical step towards becoming a licensed medical professional in the US. By understanding the exam objectives, exam details, and recommended study materials, candidates can effectively prepare for the exam and increase their chances of success.
