Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about USMLE Step 2 CK for 2021 and into 2022.

1. What happened to USMLE Step 2 CS?

USMLE Step 2 CK is the only exam required at this stage of testing. The previous USMLE Step 2 CS was paused in 2020 due to the coronavirus. This change was made permanent at the beginning of 2021, with examiners looking at different ways of evaluating the clinical skills that were once covered on this test.

2. What do I need to pass USMLE Step 2?

The minimum required score to pass USMLE Step 2 is 209. Scores between 209 and 219 are considered low, and may make it more difficult for you to match into residency. Your score may vary slightly depending on your USMLE Step 2 experience. If your test contained more difficult questions, your score may be higher, whereas tests containing easier questions may be scored lower.

3. What changes were made to USMLE Step 2?

At the end of 2020, some changes were made to the number of questions regarding patient safety, professionalism and legal and ethical issues. There are now more questions surrounding these topics on USMLE Step 2. Practice questions are available for these topics on the USMLE website.

4. How many questions are on USMLE Step 2?

There is no set number of questions for the USMLE Step 2 CK, however the total amount will not exceed 318. Also, none of the eight exam sections will exceed 40 questions.

5. What happens if I fail?

If you do not pass USMLE Step 2 CK on the first try, you will have three additional attempts to pass. Note that as of July 2021, students only have four attempts to pass this exam, down from the previous allowance of six.

6. When will I receive my USMLE results?

Most people receive a their score within 3 to 4 weeks of taking the exam. You should reach out if you have not received your results within eight weeks.

7. How can I pass on the first try?

There is a lot to cover on the exam, and every USMLE Step 2 experience is different, however the following tips can help you pass on the first try:

• Dedicate 100-200 hours to study: This works out to about 3-4 weeks of dedicated study time or 6 weeks of part-time studying. How long you need will depend on your outside obligations.

• Review plenty of sample questions: While there’s no way to know exactly what questions will be on your exam, reviewing plenty of USMLE Step 2 sample questions will get you familiar with the type of content, the wording of the questions and the test structure overall.

• Build your stamina: USMLE Step 2 is taken in eight, 45-minute blocks over the course of nine hours. This is a long day that can lead to fatigue and low scores later in the day. Prepare for this by holding a few practice test days, getting plenty of sleep leading up to the day, and staying hydrated and eating enough both on and before your test day.

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