Comprehensive Basic Science Subject Exam - Content Outline
The Comprehensive Basic Science Examination is a general, integrated achievement test covering material typically learned during basic science education, with somewhat more emphasis on second-year courses in medical schools with traditional curricula. The exam reflects content coverage on USMLE Step 1 and uses the same item formats.
Percentages are subject to change at any time.
Systems*
Human Development** (1%-3%)
Blood & Lymphoreticular/Immune Systems (9%-13%)
Behavioral Health & Nervous Systems/Special Senses (10%-14%)
Musculoskeletal, Skin & Subcutaneous Tissue (8%-12%)
Cardiovascular System (7%-11%)
Respiratory & Renal/Urinary Systems (11%-15%)
Gastrointestinal System (6%-10%)
Reproductive & Endocrine Systems (12%-16%)
Multisystem Processes & Disorders (8%-12%)
Biostatistics & Epidemiology/Population Health (4%-6%)
Social Sciences: Communication and Interpersonal Skills (6%-9%)
Physician Tasks/Competencies Specifications
Medical Knowledge: Applying Foundational Science Concepts (60%-70%)
Patient Care: Diagnosis (20%-25%)
History/Physical Examination
Diagnosis
Communication and Interpersonal Skills (6%-9%)
Practice–based Learning & Improvement (4%-6%)
*Foundational Science content is distributed throughout the organ systems based on disease process/diagnosis.
** The Human Development topic includes Normal Age-Related Findings and Care of the Well Patient. The remaining content that had been included in the General Principles category has been distributed to other organ system categories based on disease process/diagnosis.