What is the USMLE® Step 3?
The United States Medical Licensing Examination is not just another test – it’s much more.
Unlike other knowledge-based exams, the USMLE thoroughly assesses how well you can apply your skills, values, and attitudes to real life, patient-centered scenarios. Not only is it valuable practice for you as a future physician; it shows licensing authorities how you will operate on the job, both on and off the table. Now put on those mental scrubs and show them what you’re made of.
THE USMLE® STEP 3
The USMLE Step 3 is a 2-day computerized examination with approximately 500 multiple-choice questions, as well as computer-based case simulations (CCS) which assess your ability to evaluate history and physical exam information, order diagnostic tests, select initial therapies, and manage the patient.
The USMLE Step 3 primarily focuses on patient management (45-55% of questions). Other topics include history and physical; lab and diagnostic studies; diagnosis; prognosis; and pathophysiology—each consisting of about 8-12% of the exam questions. In addition, each question falls into one of three clinical encounter frames: initial workup; continued care; and emergency care.
The test is administered by appointment on a year-round basis.
STEP 3 HAS CHANGED. SO HAS OUR COURSE.
It includes more questions about foundational science essential for effective healthcare; biostatistics, epidemiology, and population health management; medical literature interpretation; medical ethics; and patient safety. Students are able to schedule the exam on two non-consecutive days, named Step 3 FIP (Foundations of Independent Practice) and Step 3 ACM (Advanced Clinical Medicine).†
Get the updated Step 3 Lecture Notes and 6 hours of new online video content comprised of patient safety, population health management, interpretation of medical literature and medical ethics. Kaplan’s Step 3 USMLE prep course adapted to the changes. Learn more.
*Source: USMLE.org. USMLE® is a joint program of the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) and the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME).
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