Registering for the USMLE Step 1, Step 2 CK and Step 2 CS
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The USMLE Step 1, Step 2 CK and Step 2 CS are required to gain ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduate) Certification. As an International Medical Graduate you must have ECFMG Certification to work or train in the US. To register for the USMLE Step 1, 2CK and 2CS exams you must first register with the ECFMG, you can do this at www.ecfmg.org. You will register with them and receive an ECFMG identification number. You will then need to send them a Form 186, identification form signed by a Dean and Notary service. To actually book your exams, you'll need to book an eligibility period for your exam. This is the time frame in which you plan to take your USMLE exam. Once you have stipulated this, you'll be sent a scheduling period with instructions to book your exam. |
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| USMLE Exam | Eligibility Period | Registration Fee | Register With | Location |
| USMLE Step 1 | 3 months | $740 + $130-$330 international test delivery charge | ECFMG | International (includes London) |
| USMLE Step 2CK | 3 months | $740 + $130-$330 international test delivery charge | ECFMG | International (includes London) |
| USMLE Step 2CS | 12 months | $1,295 | ECFMG | US only. Philadelphia, Atlanta, Houston, LA and Chicago |
| USMLE Step 3 | $640 | FSMB | US only |
USMLE Step 3 Registration
The USMLE Step 3 is usually taken by US Medical Graduates after their first year of Residency. It is required for State Licensure, and can only be taken once ECFMG certification is gained.
International Graduates may choose to take the USMLE Step 3 before Residency to gain a H1B Visa. The USMLE Step 3 is administered by each individual State Board. Therefore, you should register with the Federal State Medical Board (FSMB) at www.fsmb.org.
