A joint Program of the Federation of State Medical Boards of the United States, Inc
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HOW TO RECEIVE/SEND TRANSCRIPTS
To obtain your USMLE transcript or have it sent to a third party, you must contact your registration entity; there is a fee for this service.
Please visit the USMLE website to determine which registration entity to contact to request your transcript and the fees associated with the request.
Your USMLE transcript includes: biographical information, complete examination history, and, if applicable, information regarding findings of irregular behavior and actions reported to the FSMB Physician Data Center .
scoring process is not expedited or accelerated for any individual or group. www.usmle.org 7 QUICK FACTS: Irregular Behavior DO DON’T Put all personal belongings, including your cell phone and study materials, in the locker provided Access your personal belongings only during authorized breaks End your patient encounter and stop typing your Patient Note as soon as announcements are made (Step 2 CS only) Verify you are on an authorized break screen before leaving the examination room for a break
security@usmle.org or the USMLE website if you know of anyone who has violated a USMLE rule or regulation
Ask people what they saw on their examination or share what you saw on yours, including on web forums
Change any information on score reports, transcripts, or any other USMLE-related documents
Write on your skin, tissue, or any surface other than the laminated note board provided to you by test center staff on your examination day
Apply and/or sit for an examination if you are not a current student or a graduate of a medical school program, even if you are appealing your school’s decision to withdraw or dismiss you
test preparation companies or other entities You are responsible for reading the USMLE Bulletin of Information in its entirety; contact the USMLE Secretariat's office with questions or concerns. Please see pages 24-25 for more information regarding irregular behavior. Taking a n exam when ineligible STOP!
THINK BEFORE YOU ACT!
• Registering for or taking an exam when ineligible • Seeking/obtaining prior access to exam content • Altering exam scores • Having unauthorized items in the testing area • Using a proxy to take your exam • Writing on anything other than the laminated note boards provided The penalties for irregular behavior may include: • Cancellation of your exam scores • Ban on future testing • Permanent annotation of your USMLE transcript • Report to the FSMB’s Physician Data Center • Possible legal action The USMLE program takes examination security seriously. If you have information concerning activities or behavior that may threaten the security or integrity of the USMLE, please contact us via the USMLE website . www.usmle.org 8 2017 Bulletin of Information OVERVIEW
PURPOSE AND MISSION OF THE USMLE The United States Medical Licensing Examination® (USMLE®) is a three-step examination for medical licensure in the United States and is sponsored by the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) and the National Board of Medical Examiners® (NBME®). The USMLE program supports medical licensing authorities in the United States through its leadership in the development, delivery, and continual improvement of high-quality assessments across the continuum of physicians’ preparation for practice.
EXAMINATION COMMITTEES Examination committees, composed of medical educators and clinicians, create the examination materials. Committee members broadly represent the teaching, practice, and licensing communities across the United States. At least two committees critically appraise each test item or case, and they revise or discard any materials that are in doubt.
OWNERSHIP AND COPYRIGHT OF EXAMINATION MATERIALS The examination materials in the USMLE are the confidential, copyrighted property of the USMLE program. If you reproduce and/or distribute any examination materials, by any means, including by memorizing and reconstructing them, you are violating the legal rights of the USMLE program. The USMLE program will use every legal means available to protect the copyrighted materials and secure redress against those who violate copyright law.
THE USMLE: PURPOSE, TEST FORMAT, AND TEST LENGTHS STEP & PURPOSE FORMAT LENGTH (including breaks) ADDITIONAL INFORMATION STEP 1 assesses the examinee’s understanding and ability to apply important concepts of the basic sciences to the practice of medicine, with special emphasis on principles and mechanisms underlying health, disease, and modes of therapy
Approximately 280 multiple- choice questions, divided into seven 60-minute blocks
Computer based – administered at Prometric Test Centers around the world
One day test session – eight hours
assesses the examinee’s ability to apply medical knowledge, skills, and understanding of clinical science essential for the provision of patient care under supervision, with an emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention
Approximately 318 multiple- choice questions, divided into eight 60-minute blocks
administered at Prometric Test Centers around the world
One day test session – nine hours
For more information on Step 2 CK, including applications, practice materials, and updates, visit the USMLE website www.usmle.org 9 2017 Bulletin of Information The clinical skills examination is a separate component of STEP 2 and uses standardized patients to test examinees on their ability to gather information from patients, perform physical examinations, and communicate their findings to patients and colleagues
for each patient encounter plus 10 minutes to record each patient note
Administered at six test centers in the US – Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia (2)
One day test session
– eight hours For more information on Step 2 CS, including applications, practice materials, and updates, visit the USMLE website
assesses the examinee’s ability to apply medical knowledge and understanding of biomedical and clinical science essential for the unsupervised practice of medicine, with emphasis on patient management in ambulatory settings
assesses the examinee’s knowledge of basic medical and scientific principles essential for effective health care
Day 2: ADVANCED CLINICAL MEDICINE (ACM) assesses the examinee’s ability to apply comprehensive knowledge of health and disease in the context of patient management and the evolving manifestation of disease over time
Day 1 (FIP):
Approximately 235 multiple- choice test questions, divided into six 60-minute blocks, each containing approximately 40 questions
Computer based – administered at Prometric Test Centers in the US
choice test questions, divided into six 45-minute blocks, each containing approximately 30 questions
case simulations (CCS). Each simulation is allotted a maximum of 10 or 20 minutes of real time
administered at Prometric Test Centers in the US.
One day test session – seven hours
One day test session – nine hours
www.usmle.org 10 2017 Bulletin of Information OVERVIEW
ELIGIBILITY FOR THE USMLE
WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO TAKE THE USMLE? Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 2 CS To be eligible, you must be in one of the following categories at the time you apply AND on the day of your examination: •
a medical student officially enrolled in, or a graduate of, a US or Canadian medical school program leading to the MD degree that is accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME), •
is accredited by the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), or •
a medical student officially enrolled in, or a graduate of, a medical school that is outside the US and Canada, listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools as meeting ECFMG eligibility requirements, and that meets other eligibility criteria of the ECFMG.
IMPORTANT Individuals who passed Step 2 prior to the implementation of Step 2 CS are not permitted to take Step 2 CK, except under the specific exceptions to the retake policy approved by the Composite Committee (see page 12). These individuals are permitted to take Step 2 CS, provided they meet all other eligibility requirements. Individuals who were not required to pass Step 2 CS for Step 3 eligibility but who elect to take Step 2 CS and fail the examination are not eligible for Step 3 until they have passed Step 2 CS (most recent administration) and meet all other Step 3 requirements.
IMPORTANT If you are dismissed or withdraw(n) from medical school, you are not eligible for the USMLE, even if you are appealing the school’s decision or are otherwise contesting your status. If you are on a leave of absence, please check with your registration entity before submitting your application, or if you have already registered, check with them before testing.
Step 3 To be eligible for Step 3, before submitting your application, you must: •
Canadian medical school, or from a medical school outside the US and Canada that is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools as meeting ECFMG eligibility requirements, AND •
pass Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 2 CS, AND •
additionally, for international medical graduates, obtain certification by the ECFMG
.
IMPORTANT: The USMLE program recommends that, for Step 3 eligibility, applicants should have completed, or be near completion of, at least one postgraduate training year in a US-accredited graduate medical education program that meets state board licensing requirements. www.usmle.org 11 2017 Bulletin of Information IMPORTANT Effective January 1, 2017, the USMLE Program will no longer accept Fifth Pathway certificates for the purpose of meeting Step 3 eligibility requirements. Individuals holding Fifth Pathway certificates that are not accepted by the USMLE Program for purposes of meeting Step 3 eligibility must obtain ECFMG certification in order to meet Step 3 eligibility requirements.
CHANGE IN ELIGIBILITY STATUS If your eligibility for a Step or Step Component changes after you submit your application but before your scheduled test date(s), you must notify your registration entity promptly. Failure to notify your registration entity that you may no longer be eligible to take the examination may result in a finding of irregular behavior. If you take a Step or Step Component for which you are not eligible, results for that examination may not be reported or, if previously reported, may be canceled.
GRADUATES FROM UNACCREDITED MEDICAL SCHOOLS IN THE US OR CANADA
If you graduated from an unaccredited medical school in the US or Canada and are eligible for initial licensure by a US medical licensing authority, you may take the USMLE only upon specific request by that medical licensing authority. The medical licensing authority should submit the request to sponsor you to the USMLE Secretariat in
advance of your application for each Step. You must pass Steps 1, 2 CK, and 2 CS before you can take Step 3.
SEQUENCE OF STEPS If you meet the eligibility requirements, you may take Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 2 CS in any sequence. You may take Step 3 only after passing Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 2 CS.
NUMBER OF ATTEMPTS AND TIME LIMITS The USMLE program limits to six the total number of times an examinee can take the same Step or Step Component. An examinee is ineligible to take a Step or Step Component after six or more prior attempts to pass that Step or Step Component, including incomplete attempts. All attempts at a Step or Step Component are counted toward the limit, regardless of when the examinations were taken.
Information regarding state-specific requirements for licensure can be obtained on the FSMB website . Note:
MD/PhD students should reference the USMLE website for more specific information regarding exceptions to time limits.
RETAKING FAILED EXAMINATIONS
You may not take the same Step or Step Component more than three times within a 12-month period. Your fourth and subsequent attempts must be at least 12 months after your first attempt at that examination and at least six months after your most recent attempt at that examination.
www.usmle.org 12 2017 Bulletin of Information ELIGIBILITY FOR THE USMLE
RETAKING PREVIOUSLY PASSED STEPS
If you pass a Step or Step Component, you are not allowed to retake it, except to comply with the time limit of a medical licensing authority or another authority recognized by the USMLE program. Visit the USMLE website for more information. If you have not yet passed Step 3 and need to retake a previously-passed Step 1 or Step 2 examination in order to meet a time limit imposed by a US medical licensing authority or another authority recognized by the USMLE program, you should understand that if you fail a retake, you will no longer be eligible to take Step 3. In order to meet the examination requirements for Step 3 eligibility, you must have achieved a passing performance on the most recent administration of the examinations intended to meet those requirements.
PREVIOUSLY LICENSED PHYSICIANS If you have already been granted a license by a US medical licensing authority based on previous licensure examinations, such as the Federation Licensing Examination (FLEX) or the NBME certifying examinations, you are not eligible to take the USMLE.
www.usmle.org 13 2017 Bulletin of Information ELIGIBILITY FOR THE USMLE
APPLYING FOR THE TEST AND SCHEDULING YOUR TEST DATE
APPLICATION MATERIALS Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 2 CS Students and graduates of LCME- or AOA- Accredited programs should apply for Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 2 CS by following the instructions on the NBME website . Students and graduates of medical schools outside the US and Canada should apply for Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 2 CS by following the instructions on the ECFMG website .
IMPORTANT If you are dismissed or withdraw(n) from medical school, you are not eligible for USMLE, even if you are appealing the school’s decision or are otherwise contesting your status.
Graduates with an MD or DO degree from an LCME- or AOA- Accredited medical school, and graduates of medical schools outside the US and Canada that are listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools as meeting ECFMG eligibility requirements, should apply for Step 3 by following the instructions on the FSMB website .
The USMLE program provides reasonable accommodations for examinees with disabilities covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you are a disabled individual covered under the ADA and require test accommodations, visit the USMLE website before you apply for each Step or Step Component for information regarding test accommodations, including procedures and documentation requirements.
EXAMINEES WHO REQUIRE ADDITIONAL BREAK TIME Examinees with physical or health conditions, such as lactation, may apply for additional break time by submitting a written request with a letter from a qualified health care professional documenting the medical necessity. Requests should be made prior to, or at the time of, registration for a Step examination. For more information, call 215-590-9700 or e-mail disabilityservices@nbme.org .
Unauthorized possession of personal items while you are in the secure areas of the testing center is prohibited. Exceptions to this policy may be made in certain limited circumstances. If you have a condition that requires you to use medication, an external appliance, electronic device, or other item in the secure areas of the testing center, please visit the USMLE website for more information on PIE. www.usmle.org 14 2017 Bulletin of Information OBTAINING AN ELIGIBILITY PERIOD AND SCHEDULING YOUR TEST DATE STEP COMPONENT OBTAINING AN ELIGIBILITY PERIOD AND SCHEDULING YOUR TEST DATE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION STEPS 1 AND 2 CK • When applying for the examination, you must select a three-month eligibility period in which you wish to test (e.g., January – March). • Once your registration is complete, a scheduling permit with your eligibility period will be issued. You will receive an e-mail with instructions for accessing your permit.
• After obtaining the scheduling permit, you may visit the Prometric website to schedule a test date. Scheduling may not be available more than six months in advance.
• You are permitted to reschedule within your eligibility period; however a fee
is charged if a change is made during the 30 calendar days before your scheduled appointment. • If you are unable to test within your eligibility period, contact
your registration entity to inquire about a one-time contiguous eligibility period extension. A fee is charged for this service.
• If you do not take the examination within your original or extended eligibility period, you must reapply by submitting a new application and fee(s). Fees
are nonrefundable and nontransferable. STEP 2 CS • When you apply for Step 2 CS, you are assigned a 12-month eligibility period that begins when your application is accepted and your eligibility is verified. • Once your registration is complete, a scheduling permit with your eligibility period will be issued. You will receive an e-mail with instructions for accessing your permit.
• After obtaining the scheduling permit, you may visit the USMLE website to schedule your test date. • Once your eligibility period is assigned, it cannot be changed or extended. • Please check the Step 2 CS Score Reporting Schedule
before scheduling a testing appointment if you need your results by a specific deadline. • You are permitted to reschedule within your eligibility period; however a fee
is charged if a change is made during the 14 calendar days before your scheduled appointment. • If you do not take the examination within your eligibility period, you must reapply by submitting a new application and examination fee. Fees
are nonrefundable and nontransferable. STEP 3 • When applying for an examination, you must select a three-month eligibility period in which you wish to test (e.g., January – March). • Once your application is processed, a scheduling permit with your eligibility period will be issued. You will receive an e-mail with instructions for accessing your permit.
• After obtaining the scheduling permit, you may visit the Prometric website to schedule your test dates. • You are permitted to reschedule within your eligibility period; however a fee
is charged if a change is made during the 30 calendar days before your scheduled appointment. • If you are unable to test within your eligibility period, contact FSMB to inquire about a one- time contiguous eligibility period extension. A fee is charged for this service. Visit the FSMB
website for more information on eligibility period extensions. • If you do not take the examination within your original or extended eligibility period, you must reapply by submitting a new application and fee(s). Fees
are nonrefundable and nontransferable. IMPORTANT :
feel unprepared for the examination, or are otherwise not ready to test. Contact your registration entity for further details regarding rescheduling your examination.
www.usmle.org 15 2017 Bulletin of Information APPLYING FOR THE TEST AND SCHEDULING YOUR TEST DATE
EXAMINATION DAY AND TESTING
TESTING REGULATIONS AND RULES OF CONDUCT Testing sessions for the USMLE Steps are monitored by test center staff, in person and through audio and visual recording. Staff are required to report any violations of USMLE or test center rules. You must follow instructions from test center staff throughout the examinations; failure to do so may result in a finding of irregular behavior and permanent annotation of your transcript. Test center staff are not authorized to answer questions regarding registration, examination content or format, testing software, scoring, or retesting.
1.
You are the person named on the scheduling permit for the examination. 2.
You will not seek, provide, or obtain any form of unauthorized assistance during the examination or during breaks.
3.
You will not have prohibited materials, including formulas, study materials, notes, papers, or electronic devices of any kind in your possession while you are in the secure areas of the center. 4.
You will place in a locker or cubicle all personal belongings, including cell phones, watches, pagers, tablet PCs, iPods/media players, fitness and tracking monitors, any device with transmitting or receiving capabilities (e.g., bluetooth), formulas, study materials, notes, papers, pens/pencils, and your purse and/or wallet, before you enter the testing room (or Orientation Room for Step 2 CS). 5.
when the break screen is visible on your monitor. It is a violation of the Rules of Conduct if you indicate on the test center log that your break screen is visible when it is not. 6.
device only when outside the secure testing area and during an authorized break. You may not use a device for any purpose related to test content. During Step 2 CS, you may not use a personal telephone at any time while you are in the testing center. 7.
You will not remove test content from the test center by any means. 8.
You will maintain the confidentiality of the materials, including, but not limited to, the multiple-choice items and the case content for Step 2 CS and Primum CCS. You will not reproduce or attempt to reproduce examination materials through recording, memorization, or by any other means. Also, you will not provide information relating to examination content to anyone who may be taking or preparing others to take the examination. This includes postings regarding examination content and/or answers on the Internet. 9.
You will not write on anything other than the laminated note boards (computer-based examinations) or scrap paper (Step 2 CS) provided.
www.usmle.org 16 2017 Bulletin of Information PERSONAL BELONGINGS – WHAT YOU CAN BRING INTO THE TESTING ROOM
Personal items are prohibited in the secure areas of the testing center. For computer-based examinations (Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 3), the only items you are allowed to bring into the testing room are soft-foam earplugs without strings. Earplugs must be removed from the packaging and ready for inspection by test center staff during check-in and must also remain at your workstation during all breaks. Visit the USMLE website for more information.
For Step 2 CS, the entire test center, including the orientation room and the restrooms, is considered a secure testing area. The only items you are allowed to bring into the secure testing area are your white lab coat (pockets must be empty) and your personal stethoscope (there is limited supply at the test center). All other equipment, including pens, gloves, writing paper, and other medical equipment is provided by the test center. Visit the USMLE website for more information regarding the Step 2 CS examination experience and test center regulations.
For all Steps, if you bring personal items to the test center, you must store them in a small designated locker outside the secure testing area or in the designated storage area for Step 2 CS; electronic devices must be turned off. All personal items are subject to inspection.
ADMISSION TO THE TEST Check-in Procedures Step 1, Step 2 CK, Step 3 You should arrive at the test center approximately 30 minutes prior to your scheduled testing appointment. If you arrive after your appointment time, you may not be admitted. If you arrive more than 30 minutes after your scheduled testing appointment, you will not be admitted and must pay a fee to reschedule your test. Your rescheduled test date(s) must fall within your eligibility period.
You should arrive at the test center at the time listed on the confirmation notice you will have printed after scheduling your appointment. There will be an on-site orientation to demonstrate the equipment available for you to use in the examination rooms and to review examination rules and procedures. If you arrive during the on-site orientation, you may be allowed to test after signing a Late Admission Form. If you arrive after the on-site orientation, you will not be allowed to test and must pay a fee
to reschedule your test.
When you arrive at the test center, you must present a paper or electronic copy of your scheduling permit and the
include:
▫
Passport ▫
Driver’s license with photograph ▫
National Identity Card ▫
other form of dated, unexpired, government-issued identification www.usmle.org 17 2017 Bulletin of Information EXAMINATION DAY AND TESTING Your name, as it appears on your scheduling permit, must exactly match the name on your form(s) of identification. Please review your scheduling permit for details and limited exceptions. If the name listed on your scheduling permit is not correct, contact your registration entity immediately. Your identification must contain both your signature and a recent photograph.
identification on each day of your exam, you will not be admitted to the test and will be required to pay a fee
to reschedule your test. Your rescheduled test date(s) must fall within your eligibility period.
During check-in, test center staff will scan you with a metal detector (handheld or walk-through) and ask you to empty and turn your pockets inside out before entering the testing room to confirm that you have no prohibited items. You will be asked to repeat this process each time you return to the testing room after a break. Additionally, your photo ID and fingerprint may be scanned electronically and you must sign the test center log each time you enter or exit the test room.
Before you enter the test room, test center staff will give you laminated writing surfaces and markers to use for making notes and/or calculations during the testing session. You will be instructed to write your name and CIN, as shown on your scheduling permit, on one of the laminated writing surfaces provided. Writing surfaces and markers should be used only at your assigned testing station, and only after you have entered your CIN in the computer to start your test session. If you have filled the laminated writing surfaces and need additional space for making notes, raise your hand to ask test center staff for a replacement. You must return laminated writing surfaces to test center staff at the end of the testing session. Do NOT write on anything other than the laminated writing surface (e.g., your hand, other body part, tissue, etc.). Failure to comply may result in a finding of irregular behavior.
Test center staff will escort you to your assigned testing station and provide brief instructions on use of the computer equipment. You must enter your CIN to start the examination. A brief tutorial is available before each examination. It is important that you run the sound check for the audio headphones in the tutorial so that problems can be resolved before you start the examination.
During check-in, in addition to having your photo ID scanned electronically, you will be asked to place your personal belongings (e.g., pens, study materials, cell phones, etc.) in small bins, which are inaccessible for the duration of the examination day. Any personal belongings that you may need during breaks or during the examination, including your lab coat and stethoscope, can be placed at your seat in the orientation room.
Please note that every area of the testing center is under video surveillance at all times; examinees are escorted by proctors at all times, with the exception of restroom breaks. All Steps There are no facilities available for family and friends to wait at the center while you test; plan to meet them elsewhere after the examination ends.
www.usmle.org 18 2017 Bulletin of Information EXAMINATION DAY AND TESTING BREAK TIME
Your test session is scheduled for a fixed amount of time and the computer keeps track of the time allocated for each block and for breaks. At the start of the testing session, you have a total of 45 minutes of break time for authorized breaks and for computer transitions between blocks. Authorized breaks include any time you spend between test blocks, whether you remain at your seat or leave the testing room. If you complete the tutorial or other testing blocks early, the remaining time will be added to your total break time.
Once you begin a testing block, you may not leave the room (except in the event of an emergency). If you leave the room for a personal emergency and you are not on an authorized break, the block and daytime clocks will continue to run. If you leave during the block, the test center will file a report of the incident. Additionally, the unauthorized break screen, described in the examination tutorial, will appear on the monitor after a defined period of inactivity. After the unauthorized break screen appears, you will need to enter your CIN to continue with the examination. Each time you leave the testing room, you are required to then sign out and sign in when you return. You must present your identification each time you sign in.
If you exceed your allocated or accumulated break time, the excess will be deducted from your total testing time. Use the time summary feature (explained in the tutorial on test day) to keep track of your time.
Your Step 2 CS administration will include 12 patient encounters. The examination session lasts approximately eight hours. Examinees get a minimum of 45 minutes of break time, which includes a 30-minute lunch period. During lunch, a light meal will be served. The test center is unable to accommodate special meal requests. However, you may bring your own food, provided that no refrigeration is required. The frequency and length of breaks, other than the lunch break, will vary slightly by testing center. Smoking is prohibited throughout the centers.
STARTING AND COMPLETING THE TEST Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 3 The test session ends when you have started and exited all blocks or the total test time expires. You will receive a notice during checkout that you have appeared for the test. If your test is scheduled for multiple days, be sure to bring a copy of your permit with you each day or you may not be permitted to test.
After you start taking an examination, you cannot cancel or reschedule that examination. If you experience a computer issue during the test, notify test center staff immediately. The testing software is designed to restart the test at the point that it was interrupted, without loss of time.
In the rare event that a technical problem occurs that does not permit you to complete your examination, please send a written description of the incident to Test Administration Services at the NBME. Test Administration Services must receive your notice within 10 days of your testing date or it may not be possible to fully investigate your concerns. Your correspondence should include your name, your USMLE ID number, the examination name (Step 1, 2 CK, 2 CS, or 3), date of administration, and a message with a detailed description of the difficulty experienced. Please allow at least 15 business days for your report to be investigated and evaluated. You will receive written notification of the investigation results.
www.usmle.org 19 2017 Bulletin of Information EXAMINATION DAY AND TESTING
If you start the examination but do not complete it for reasons other than a technical problem or expiration of time, you should promptly write to Test Administration Services explaining, in detail, the reasons you decided not to finish the examination. The attempt may appear as an “incomplete” on your USMLE transcript.
For more information on how to report a test administration problem, visit the USMLE website .
Step 2 CS Once you enter the secure area of the test center, which includes the orientation area, you may not leave the area until the examination has been completed. All examinees taking the Step 2 CS examination are required to type the patient note portion of the exam. You are only permitted to handwrite your patient note if you were approved to receive an accommodation for a disability or if technical difficulties occur, which make the patient note-typing program unavailable.
You may not discuss the cases with anyone, including other examinees, at any time (before, during or after your examination). All conversation at the testing center among examinees must be in English.
IMPORTANT The USMLE program may prohibit an examinee from completing the exam and/or may impose conditions on retesting if the examinee appears to represent a health or safety risk to the standardized patients or test center staff. Such circumstances include, but are not limited to, an examinee performing careless or hazardous acts during the physical examination, exhibiting signs of illness (e.g., persistent coughing or sneezing) during the examination, or showing visibly open skin lesions or active bleeding. If you do not feel well on the day of your test, we strongly encourage you to consider rescheduling your examination.
The USMLE makes every effort to ensure that your registration information is properly processed and that the Step examinations are properly prepared, administered, and scored. In the unlikely event that an error occurs in the preparation, processing, administration, or scoring of your USMLE examination or in the reporting of your USMLE scores, the USMLE will make reasonable efforts to correct the error, if possible, or permit you either to retest at no additional fee or to receive a refund of the examination fee. These are the exclusive remedies available to examinees for errors in the registration process; in preparing, processing, or administering exams; or in determining or reporting scores. www.usmle.org 20 2017 Bulletin of Information EXAMINATION DAY AND TESTING SCORING AND SCORE REPORTING EXAMINATION RESULTS AND SCORING For up-to-date information on minimum passing scores, examination performance data, and general scoring methodology, please visit the USMLE website . SCORE REPORTING Score Availability Results for computer-based examinations (Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 3) are typically available three to four weeks after your test date. However, release of results may take longer for various reasons. When selecting your test date and inquiring about results, you should allow at least eight weeks to receive notification that your score report is available. For Step 2 CS results, you should refer to the Step 2 CS Score Reporting Schedule . For more specific information about potential scoring delays, please visit the Announcement section of the USMLE website . When your score is available, you will receive an e-mail notification from your registration entity. Your score report will remain available on your registration entity’s website for approximately 120 days from the date of the e-mail notification. After the score report is removed from the website, your scores will only be provided to you in the form of an official transcript, for a fee, through your registration entity. Visit the USMLE website
for more details, including how to request a transcript for you or for a third party. Reporting to Third Parties The NBME reports the results of the USMLE to LCME- and AOA- Accredited medical school programs for their students and graduates. For Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 2 CS, if you do not want your results reported to your medical school, you must send a signed request to the NBME , which must be received at least 10 business days before your scheduled test date. For Step 3, you must indicate your reporting preference on your application. The ECFMG may provide the results of the USMLE to international medical schools for their students and graduates. For Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 2 CS, if you do not want your results reported to your medical school, you must submit a request for each examination administration, via the ECFMG website , at least 10 business days before your scheduled test date. Examination data (including performance information and recorded patient encounters) from USMLE examinations may be used by the USMLE program or made available to third parties for research. In such instances, the data will be confidential, and individual examinees will not be identifiable in any publication. If you do not wish your score to be made available for research purposes, you must advise the USMLE Secretariat in writing. Incomplete Scores If you do not open every block of your Step 1, Step 2 CK, or Step 3 examination, your examination may not be scored and the attempt may be reported as an incomplete on your USMLE transcript. www.usmle.org 21 2017 Bulletin of Information For Step 2 CS, if you leave the test early, or otherwise fail to carry out one or more of the cases, your performance may be assessed on those cases you completed. If, based on the performance of the completed cases, a pass/fail determination cannot be made, the attempt may be recorded as an incomplete on your USMLE transcript.
telephone, e-mail, or fax to anyone. Additionally, the scoring process is not expedited or accelerated for any individual or group.
SCORE RECHECKS For all Steps and Step Components, a change in your score or in your pass/fail outcome based on a recheck is an extremely remote possibility. A rigorous process is used, including a double scoring method involving independent scoring systems, to ensure accurate results; to date, the score recheck process has not resulted in a score change. However, a recheck will be performed if you submit a written request and service fee to your registration entity. Your registration entity must receive the request no later than 90 days after your result was released to you.
http://examinee.nbme.org/interactive
http://www.ecfmg.org/forms/steprchk.pdf
http://www.fsmb.org/licensure/usmle-step-3/cost-and-fees
retrieved and rescored using a system that is outside of the normal processing routine. The rechecked score is then compared with the original score.
For Step 2 CS, the ratings received from the standardized patients and from the Physician Note raters are retrieved, resummed, and reconverted into final scores to verify the accuracy of the original outcome. Encounters and patient notes are not rerated and videos are not rereviewed during the recheck.
SCORE VALIDITY The performance of examinees is monitored and may be analyzed to detect aberrancies that raise questions about the validity of scores. The USMLE program reserves the right to cancel scores that are at or above the passing level if the USMLE program has a good faith basis for questioning whether they represent a valid measure of knowledge or competence as sampled by the examination. Questions about score validity may result from irregular behavior
(please refer to the Irregular Behavior section of this BOI on pages 24-25) or other factors. If there are questions related to the validity of your score, your score report may be delayed, or any further reporting or verification of such scores may be withheld, pending completion of further review and/or investigation. You will have an opportunity to provide information that you consider relevant.
After review and analysis of all available information, scores will either be classified as valid and will be reported, or scores will be canceled and will not appear on your record. If scores are canceled, you will be advised of the options for retaking the examination. Anyone who has received a report of scores that are later canceled will be notified.
www.usmle.org 22 2017 Bulletin of Information SCORING AND SCORE REPORTING
ANOMALOUS PERFORMANCE
Anomalous performance and/or unusual testing history may impact your access to the USMLE. If your performance raises concerns about your readiness to test or your motivation to pass, the USMLE program reserves the right to restrict your future access to its examinations and/or to impose conditions on future access. Do not test if you are not able or not ready on your scheduled test date.
You must pass all three subcomponents of Step 2 CS (ICE, CIS, SEP) in a single administration to obtain the overall designation of passing on Step 2 CS.
Taking a Step examination to familiarize yourself with the examination format, or for any reason other than to pass, is prohibited and may limit your future access to the USMLE. www.usmle.org 23 2017 Bulletin of Information SCORING AND SCORE REPORTING IRREGULAR BEHAVIOR
IRREGULAR BEHAVIOR DEFINED Irregular behavior includes any action by applicants, examinees, potential applicants, or others when solicited by an applicant and/or examinee that could compromise the validity, integrity, or security of the USMLE examination process.
EXAMPLES OF IRREGULAR BEHAVIOR Specific examples of conduct that may be deemed to be irregular behavior include, but are not limited to, the following:
seeking, providing, and/or obtaining unauthorized access to examination materials
providing false information or making false statements on or in connection with application forms, scheduling permits, or other USMLE-related documents
taking an examination for someone or engaging someone to take an examination for you
seeking, providing, or obtaining unauthorized assistance during the examination or attempting to do so
making notes of any kind while in the secure areas of the test center, except on the writing materials provided at the test center for this purpose
failing to adhere to any USMLE policy, procedure, or rule, including instructions of the test center staff
verbal or physical harassment of test center staff or other examination staff, or other disruptive or unprofessional behavior during the registration, scheduling, or examination process
communication or recording devices, fitness and tracking monitors, and cell phones, in the secure testing areas
altering or misrepresenting examination scores
unauthorized reproduction by any means, including, but not limited to, reconstruction through memorization and/or dissemination of copyrighted examination materials by any means, including the Internet
another examinee, potential examinee, or formal or informal test preparation group at any time before, during, or after an examination
Test preparation courses and materials are available from individuals and companies not associated with the USMLE. It is unlawful for any test preparation service or program to use, disclose, distribute, or solicit content from recent test takers, or to otherwise provide access to questions or answers from actual USMLE examinations. If there is evidence that you enrolled in, participated in, or used any test preparation program or service that distributes, provides access to, or uses the USMLE questions or answers, or provides a forum for others to share such information, your registration and/or testing may be canceled, your scores on the USMLE may be withheld or canceled, and you may be subject to further sanctions.
www.usmle.org 24 2017 Bulletin of Information IRREGULAR BEHAVIOR – INVESTIGATION PROCESS
If the USMLE program receives information suggesting that an individual has engaged in irregular behavior or conduct that may compromise the integrity of the USMLE, the USMLE program will conduct an investigation. During this time, anyone alleged to have engaged in such activity will be prohibited from registering for additional exams; previously unreleased scores, if any, may be withheld; and pending examination appointments will be canceled. If the evidence suggests that the alleged irregular behavior affects score validity, the score will also be reviewed as described in the Scoring and Score Reporting section of this BOI (pages 21-23).
If you are the subject of a USMLE investigation, you will be advised of the matter and will have an opportunity to provide information that you consider relevant. Individuals who are the subject of an investigation must cooperate fully with the investigation, including providing all requested documentation and answering truthfully all questions posed during investigative interviews conducted on behalf of the USMLE program. If requested, individuals who are the subject of our investigation shall provide a signed release authorizing the USMLE program to obtain information and records from educational institutions and other third parties. Failing to cooperate with an investigation or providing misleading or untruthful information in the course of an investigation will constitute irregular behavior that may be the basis of separate proceedings or other actions by the USMLE program.
If it is determined that you engaged in irregular behavior, information regarding this determination will become part of your permanent USMLE history. Your score report (if applicable) and USMLE transcript will contain a notation of the finding of irregular behavior. The USMLE program will provide information about the irregular behavior to third parties that receive or have received your USMLE transcript and may also be reported to other legitimately interested entities, as determined by the USMLE program. You may be barred from taking future examinations and/or special administrative procedures or conditions may be implemented for your future examinations. The USMLE program also reserves the right to take such action when information regarding irregular behavior on predecessor examinations suggests that such actions may be appropriate to ensure the security of the USMLE. www.usmle.org 25 2017 Bulletin of Information IRREGULAR BEHAVIOR COMMUNICATING WITH THE USMLE PROGRAM
APPLICATION AND REGISTRATION INQUIRIES Contact the appropriate registration entity (see below) for information on how to apply for the USMLE, obtain application materials, and receive information on the status of your application and scheduling permit.
Students and graduates of medical school programs in the US or Canada accredited by the LCME or students and graduates of medical schools in the US accredited by the AOA NBME
Examinee Support Services 3750 Market Street Philadelphia, PA 19104-3102 Website: http://www.nbme.org
Telephone: (215) 590-9700 Fax: (215) 590-9460 E-mail:
webmail@nbme.org
STEPS 1, 2 CK, AND 2 CS Students and graduates of medical schools outside the US and Canada
3624 Market Street Philadelphia, PA 19104-2685 Website: http://www.ecfmg.org
Telephone: (215) 386-5900 Fax: (215) 386-9196 E-mail:
info@ecfmg.org
STEP 3 All medical school graduates who have passed Step 1 and Step 2 (CK and CS)
FSMB Assessment Services 400 Fuller Wiser Road Euless, TX 76039-3856 Website: http://www.fsmb.org
Telephone: (817) 868-4041 Fax: (817) 868-4098 E-mail:
usmle@fsmb.org
SCHEDULING AND TEST CENTER INQUIRIES
For Steps 1, 2 CK, and 3, your scheduling permit includes instructions on how to contact Prometric to schedule your appointment to test. Inquiries about your appointment, such as a request to reschedule an appointment within your eligibility period, must be directed to Prometric. Visit the Prometric website for information on test center locations.
To schedule an appointment for Step 2 CS, follow the instructions provided on your scheduling permit. To check test center availability and to schedule or reschedule an appointment, visit the USMLE website .
www.usmle.org 26 2017 Bulletin of Information If you receive a scheduling permit but experience a problem scheduling your appointment that Prometric or CSEC scheduling staff is unable to resolve, you may contact your registration entity. TEST ADMINISTRATION INQUIRIES
For questions and concerns about your administration, contact the NBME Test Administration office. Attention: Test Administration National Board of Medical Examiners 3750 Market Street Philadelphia, PA 19104-3102 Telephone: (215) 590-9700 Fax: (215) 590-9457 E-mail: testadmin@nbme.org
USMLE encourages you to provide information about cheating and other activities of which you are aware that may compromise the security and integrity of the USMLE. Please visit the USMLE website to report such information.
GENERAL INQUIRIES Complete information about the USMLE is available on the USMLE website. General inquiries regarding the USMLE or inquiries for the USMLE Secretariat may be directed to:
3750 Market Street Philadelphia, PA 19104-3102 Telephone: (215) 590-9700 E-mail:
webmail@nbme.org
www.usmle.org 27 2017 Bulletin of Information COMMUNICATING WITH THE USMLE PROGRAM LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
Advanced Clinical Medicine
Americans with Disabilities Act AOA American Osteopathic Association CCS Computer-based Case Simulations CIN
Candidate Identification Number CK Clinical Knowledge CS Clinical Skills CSEC Clinical Skills Evaluation Collaboration ECFMG Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates FLEX Federation Licensing Examination FSMB Federation of State Medical Boards FIP
Foundations of Independent Practice LCME Liaison Committee on Medical Education NBME National Board of Medical Examiners PIE
Personal Item Exception USMLE United States Medical Licensing Examination
28 2017 Bulletin of Information APPENDIX Document Outline
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