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

Watch the Unlocking Assessment Series to learn how other students approach NBME test questions.

USMLE.ORG

Exam Fees

The fees below apply to students and graduates of Medical Schools in the United States accredited by the LCME.

2025 Fees

 FeesEffective Dates for 2025 Fees

Step 1

 

Step 2 CK

$680*

 

$680*

 

Three-Month Eligibility Periods starting

November 1, 2024 – January 31, 2025 through

October 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025

 

Step 1 & Step 2 CK$70Eligibility period extension

 

2026 Fees

 FeesEffective Dates for 2026 Fees

Step 1

 

Step 2 CK

$695*

 

$695*

 

Three-Month Eligibility Periods starting

November 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026 through

October 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026

 

Step 1 & Step 2 CK$70Eligibility 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.

USMLE.ORG
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Fee Assistance for USMLE

This program provides fee assistance for USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK for those with demonstrated financial need. 

View Program
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Learning Resources

The Unlocking Assessment series helps students and residents learn how a panel of their peers and a team of licensed physicians approach NBME® test questions designed to measure clinical knowledge.

View Series