Preparing for the USMLE Step 2 CK exam is a big step in your medical career. This guide offers a clear and simple strategy to help you succeed. Learn how to study smart, look after yourself, and how our personalised support at MOKSH Academy can help you on your journey. It focuses on:
- Clinical skills
- Illness prevention
- Health promotion
Key Differences- Step 1 vs Step 2 CK
| Topic |
Step 1 |
Step 2 CK |
| Purpose |
Tests foundational/basic science understanding |
Tests clinical knowledge and patient-management skills |
| Content |
Mechanisms: anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, pharm, micro |
Clinical disciplines: medicine, surgery, peds, OB/Gyn, psych, neurology |
| Format |
7 x 60-min MCQ blocks (long, concept-heavy) |
8 x 60-min MCQ blocks (long, vignette-heavy) |
| When to take |
After preclinical/basic science years |
During/after clinical rotations |
| Study focus |
Deep conceptual understanding and high-yield basics |
Clinical vignettes, diagnostic reasoning, timed practice |
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USMLE Step 2 CK Eligibility Criteria
For US and Canadian Medical Students
| Criteria |
Eligibility |
| LCME Accreditation |
Enrolled in or graduated from a medical school certified by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education. |
For International Medical Graduates (IGMs)
| S.No. |
Criteria |
Eligibility |
| 1. |
ECFMG Sponsorship |
Obtain Current sponsorship, verifying medical education and qualifications. |
| 2. |
WDOMS Listing |
Medical school listed on the World Directory of Medical School Website. |
Additional Requirement
| Term |
Requirement |
| USMLE Step1 |
Passing Score required before taking Step 2 CK. |
| NBME Account |
Create an account with the National Board of Medical Examiners. |
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USMLE Step 2 CK Registration Process
Step-by-Step Guide
| Step |
Action |
Required information / documents |
| 1 |
Create MyIntealth account |
Email, name, password |
| 2 |
Apply for ECFMG Certification |
Personal details, medical school information |
| 3 |
Log in to MyIntealth & start Step 2 CK application |
Personal, demographic, and medical school details (as requested in portal) |
| 4 |
Submit application & pay fee |
Payment method (card) and completed application form |
| 5 |
Medical school verifies your status |
School confirmation/verification by your medical school |
| 6 |
Receive ECFMG (Intealth) scheduling permit |
Scheduling permit email/confirmation |
After registering for the USMLE Step 2 CK, you'll receive a Scheduling permit. Bring your Scheduling permit to the test center on exam day- it's required for admission.
Registration Details:
- Advance Registration: Register up to 6 months before the exam
- Rescheduling: Change your exam date up to 30 days in advance for a $90 fee.
- Cancellation: Cancelling your exam less than 30 days before the Scheduled date incurs a $100 fee.
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USMLE 2 CK Costs
Exam Fees
| Details |
Cost (Approx.) |
| US Test-takers |
$680 |
| International Test-takers |
$1,020 |
Additional Costs
| S.No. |
Details |
| 1. |
Travel and Accommodation |
Varying costs for test location |
| 2. |
Study Materials |
Review courses and resources (variable costs) |
| 3. |
Residency Applications |
Program application fees (variable costs) |
USMLE Step 2 CK Exam
Exam Structure
| S.No. |
Details |
| 1. |
9-hour exam |
Divided into 8 blocks |
| 2. |
60-minute blocks |
Each block has up to 40 questions |
| 3. |
Total Questions |
Maximum 318 |
Time Management:
| S.No. |
Details |
| 1. |
Break time |
45 minutes |
| 2. |
Optional tutorial |
15 minutes |
| 3. |
Flexibility |
Completing blocks early earns extra break time |
USMLE Step 2 CK Syllabus
| System |
Range |
| General Principles of Foundational Science |
1% - 3% |
| Population Health / Biostatistics & Epidemiology |
1% - 5% |
| Interpretation of the Medical Literature |
| Immune System |
85% - 95% |
| Multisystem Processes & Disorders |
| Blood and lymph reticular Systems |
| Endocrine System |
| Behavioural Health |
| Male Reproductive System |
| Female Reproductive System & Breast |
| Nervous System & Special Senses |
| Renal & Urinary Systems |
| Skin & Subcutaneous Tissue |
| Gastrointestinal System |
| Musculoskeletal System |
| Respiratory System |
| Cardiovascular System |
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Your Guide to USMLE Step 2 CK
The USMLE Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) exam tests what you know about treating patients. It covers medicine, surgery, paediatrics, psychiatry, and more. It is a big step towards your medical career in the US.
This guide offers a clear strategy for your preparation. We shall also reveal to you how the right support will help to make this journey much easier and more successful.
A Simple Plan for USMLE Step 2 CK Success
There is pressure to prepare for this exam. You may feel in control by breaking it down into clear steps.
- Start Your Preparation Early
Do not leave your study plan until the last minute. Starting early gives you enough time to learn everything well. It also means you can take breaks without feeling too much stress.
- Make Your Own Study Schedule
The best step to take is to have a schedule that fits your own rhythm. Your schedule should include:
- Key topics to study.
- Time for practice exams.
- Regular breaks are very good for resetting your mind.
- Get the Proper Study Materials.
Identify learning style-wise resources. Many of us get by on tried-and-true stuff such as:
- UWorld Question Bank - it is simply the practice question destination.
- First Aid for USMLE Step 2 CK: A great book for review.
Using a mix of materials often works best.
- Practice with Mock Exams
It is very crucial to practise full-length mock exams to pass the actual written exams. It helps you:
- Get used to the exam's timing and pressure.
- Find your weak areas so you know what to study next.
- Look After Your Health
Your brain works best when your body is healthy. Remember to:
- Eat healthy food.
- Get some exercise.
- Get good sleep every day.
- Your mental health is also very important. Make time for hobbies and friends.
How MOKSH Academy Can Be Your Guide?
You do not have to do this alone. At MOKSH Academy, we create a blend of passion and knowledge to make you a winner.
Your Personal Learning Partner
We create a learning path that supports individual needs and goals with the help of our technology.
Under MOKSH, the learners enjoy the following benefits:
- We have access to interesting video lessons and an extensive collection of supporting materials.
- Establish clear goals and track the progress easily.
- Be mentored and build collegial relationships with other learners.
- Develop the skills and expertise required to perform well in exams.
Learn from a Mentor Who Has Been in Your Shoes
Our one-on-one mentorship is led by doctors who have already succeeded. Your mentor will be:
- Someone who has passed the USMLE exams themselves.
- A doctor currently training as a resident in the US.
- They are there to guide you from your first day of study right up to match day. This expert guidance can help you make the right choices, stay motivated, and grow in confidence.
Mastering the Idea to Be Smarter with Technology
New web resources contribute to the effectiveness of your studies. The programme comprises:
- The Adaptive learning: The system is modified according to your performance.
- The AI-Powered tools: You are able to predict your score and find your weak points.
- Recorded Lectures: It is an enormous video library which you can watch flawlessly from any place or time.
Why Should You Choose MOKSH Academy?
- Professional Mentors: You will be supported by senior physicians. They are well-versed in the United States Medical Licensing test route.
- Different Study Plans: We help you create a study schedule that works for you.
- Flexible Online learning: Learn and study from anywhere at any time with flexible online learning.
Consult with us and know more about how we deeply work with our students.
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Enrol in MOKSH Academy Right Now!
USMLE Step 2 CK preparation is an important task. You can do it with the correct strategy and support.
MOKSH Academy provides counselling to create your launchpad into success in the United States. Contact MOKSH Academy at your earliest convenience.
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FAQs
The USMLE Step 2 CK is a multiple-choice exam administered to test a candidate's clinical knowledge and clinical skills.
USMLE Step 2 CK comprises various medical specialities like internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, and so on.
The exam is composed of multiple-choice questions which concern caring for patients as well as diagnosing.
Preparation in most cases includes clinical sciences review, sample question practice and test-taking strategies.
Getting a passing score in USMLE Step 2 CK is essential for medical licensure and residency program eligibility in clinical skills and knowledge.
USMLE Step 2 CK scores are valid for 7 years.
Yes, in the case of the failure of the USMLE Step 2 CK, it is possible to retake it. But there are certain limitations on the number of attempts.
Three to four weeks after the exam date, the results are often made public.
The passing standard is established by the USMLE program and is not consistent.
Some residency programs would allow applications before taking Step 2 CK, but most require passing scores.
Candidacy to a residency program is often a condition of success in Step 2 CK. A good score can give you an advantage in your application.
Textbooks are best combined with online materials, practice questions, and prep courses.
Practice with sample questions. It is recommended to give special attention to test-taking skills and time allocation.
