
Step 2 is a two-day test, usually taken in the fourth year of med school. Read More: Guide to Your Medical School Application Topics such as nutrition, genetics and aging are also covered. It emphasizes knowledge of basic sciences, including anatomy, biochemistry, behavioral sciences, microbiology, immunology, pathology, pharmacology and physiology. Step 1 is a one-day test, usually taken at the end of the second year of med school. Students of osteopathic medicine can take either the USMLE or a similar test called the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMEX). The USMLE is designed for students of allopathic medicine, who are on the path to an MD. Some test-taking strategies will improve your performance, but you won't pass without comprehensive knowledge of the sciences, as well as an ability to apply that knowledge in a clinical setting. Second, unlike many standardized tests, the USMLE actually assesses your mastery of the material, not how well you take a test. First, you take each part at a different stage of your medical education. Before you can apply for a medical license, you must pass a three-step test called the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), also known as the board exam.
