USMLE Requirements

Students at McGovern are required to take USMLE Step 2 CK in order to graduate.

Important Note: The state of Texas has adopted a ‘3-strikes’ rule for all parts of the USMLE. In order to become a licensed physician in the state of Texas, you must pass each Step (1, 2CK or 3) of the USMLE in three attempts or less. Failure to pass any of the Steps within three attempts will disqualify you from Texas licensure.

Step 3 can be taken any time after you graduate. You may take Step 2 even if you have not passed Step 1, but you must have passed Steps 1 and 2 in order to apply for Step 3.  Application to take Step3 is often made in conjunction with application for licensure by a particular state. In Texas the earliest you can be fully and individually licensed is after the completion of your internship year. Step 3 is a requirement for licensure.

Step 2 and Residency Applications

Residency programs across the country are recommending, or even requiring, that applicants take Step 2 CK early in the senior year to satisfy the demands of program directors who are seeking objective data to assess applicants. You are STRONGLY encouraged to take the Step 2 CK exam by mid-August so that your score will be available to program directors when your application is released to programs in mid to late September. However, if you find that you do not have adequate time to thoroughly prepare; do not risk failure just to meet this deadline.