TAKING THE UNITED STATES MEDICAL LICENSING EXAMINATION®
The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE®) measures your ability to apply the knowledge, concepts, and patient-centered skills that form the basis for safe and effective care.
By passing the three-step exam, you become eligible to apply for an unrestricted medical license in the United States.
About the Exam
The Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) and NBME® work together to co-sponsor the USMLE, which comprises Step 1, Step 2, and Step 3.
Passing each Step not only marks a milestone as you begin the next phase of your medical training and education, but also gets you closer to achieving your goal of obtaining a license to practice medicine in the United States. Visit USMLE.org to learn more or select from the Quick Links below.
Quick Links
- USMLE Bulletin of Information
- Scores & Transcripts
- Applications & Fees
- MyUSMLE℠ Portal
- Guidelines to request Test Accommodations
- Content Descriptions & Practice Materials
- FAQs
Watch the Unlocking Assessment Series to learn how other students approach NBME test questions.
Exam Fees
The fees below apply to students and graduates of Medical Schools in the United States accredited by the LCME.
2025 Fees
| Fees | Effective Dates for 2025 Fees | |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | $680* | Three-Month Eligibility Periods starting November 1, 2024 – January 31, 2025 through October 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025 |
| Step 2 CK | $680* | |
| Step 1 & Step 2 CK | $70 | Eligibility period extension |
2026 Fees
| Fees | Effective Dates for 2026 Fees | |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | $695* | Three-Month Eligibility Periods starting November 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026 through October 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026 |
| Step 2 CK | $695* | |
| Step 3 | $955* | |
| Step 1 & Step 2 CK | $70 | Eligibility period extension |
Next year's application materials will be available by the second half of August.
* For information about taking Step 1 and Step 2 CK at international centers and regional surcharges email USMLEreg@nbme.org or call 215-590-9700.
Please note: If you submit a payment for registration and/or examinee records services that is uncollectible and returned to the NBME, you will be charged a $25 fee. No further services will be provided until payment is received.
Programs Open for Students with Financial Need
Learn more about the NBME Fee Assistance for USMLE and NBME/NMF Scholarship programs open this spring.
Learning Resources
The Unlocking Assessment series helps students and residents learn how a panel of their peers and a team of...
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