International medical graduates and students applying to the 2011 Match have today been reminded they must take their USMLE Step 2CS by the 31 December 2010. If IMGs do not do this they will not receive their results in enough time to participate in the 2011 Match.
You are strongly recommended to apply to take your exam now. Places on the USMLE Step 2CS exam are very limited and you need to book well in advance, demand is only set to get higher between July and August as people get ready to send off their applications for the 2011 Match.
You should consider the following, when thinking about booking your Step 2CS Course:
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Test sessions open for booking 12-13 months prior to the test date.
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Early registration for Eligibility Periods (12 months for the USMLE Step 2CS) means you’ll have more chance of getting a test date and center that is preferable.
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Applicants who take their USMLE Step 2CS early and fail are more likely to be able to take the exam again and achieve a passing score.
About the USMLE Step 2CS exam
The USMLE Step 2CS (Clinical Skills) is a live exam testing your interpersonal, communication and English Proficiency skills. You’ll face 12 Standardized Patients in one of the 5 testing centers in the USA (Philadelphia, Atlanta, Houston, LA and Chicago). You’ll be given basic patient details prior to your interaction, each interaction will last for 15 minutes, in which time you’ll need to conduct any appropriate physical examination, communicate effectively with the patient and diagnose the patient. You’ll have 10 minutes after to compose any patient notes.
You’ll receive a pass or fail for the USMLE Step 2CS exam, and you’ll need to pass all interactions to pass the exam. One out of six international medical graduates who take the exam, fail. Planning and practice is the key!
Read a USMLE Step 2CS student experience
About Kaplan USMLE Step 2CS Prep
Our preparation for the USMLE Step 2CS is designed to provide you with the most realistic experience. In our Kaplan Medical simulated labs you’ll have access to lessons with USMLE experts and practice with Standardized Patients. You’ll receive course materials (including a Step 2CS course book) and full feedback on your progress.
We off a USMLE Step 2CS 5 day course and Practice Exam – Book both together and receive 10% off the Practice Exam. Both take place in the USA at one of our practice centers. Our students will book to take the practice exam a week before the real preparation.