Do step 2 scores matter for residency?

Yes, USMLE Step 2 CK scores matter significantly for residency, serving as a crucial objective metric, especially since Step 1 became pass/fail, helping programs screen thousands of applicants for interviews and determine competitiveness across specialties. While strong scores open doors, the overall application (letters, research, personal statement) remains important, with Step 2 CK often being the primary differentiator for getting that interview invitation, particularly in competitive fields.

Does the USMLE step 2 score matter?

Absolutely. While a higher score may strengthen your application, many residency programs take a holistic approach. Your clinical experience, personal statement, letters of recommendation, and overall fit matter just as much.

What is the average Step 2 score for residency programs?

Across all physician specialties, the average Step 2 score for matched applicants from U.S. MD-granting medical schools was 250, according to a 2024 report on characteristics of matched applicants.

What score is 75% correct on step 2?

Getting 75% correct on Step 2, especially on practice tests like NBMEs or UWorld, usually translates to a strong score in the mid-to-high 240s or even into the mid-250s, placing you well above average and competitive for many specialties, though top-tier competitive fields might require even higher scores (around 255-270+). A 75th percentile score means you scored better than 75% of test-takers, indicating solid performance and often helping balance a weaker Step 1 or improving residency options. 

Does high Step 2 CK score matter in IMG Easy?

EVER SINCE STEP 1 BECAME PASS/FAIL, STEP 2 CK HAS BECOME THE MOST IMPORTANT EXAM IN RESIDENCY APPLICATIONS ESPECIALLY FOR IMGS. THE NEW MEAN SCORE IS 249 IF YOU ARE AN IMG AIMING FOR A COMPETITIVE SPECIALTY OR EVEN A STRONG MATCH, YOUR TARGET SHOULD BE 270 PLUS. THAT'S WHAT SEPARATES YOU FROM THE CROWD.

How to Address a Low USMLE Step 2 Score in Your Residency Interview! 🩺💭 | Group Session

What score is 50% on step 2?

A 50% score on USMLE Step 2 (CK) usually translates to a score around 250, placing you at the 50th percentile, which is considered an average-to-good score but may be limiting for highly competitive specialties, though it's a passing score and often sufficient for many programs with strong applications. The actual percentile can vary slightly as more people take the test, but a score in the mid-240s to low-250s generally puts you around the 50th percentile. 

What if I fail Step 2 CK?

If you wish to retake the test, it must be at least 12 months after your first attempt and at least six months after your most recent attempt. However, note that this is only if you fail the test. If you pass Step 2 CK but aren't satisfied with your score, you cannot retake it.

What is an impressive step 2 score?

A good USMLE Step 2 CK score is between 240-260, with 256 or higher being competitive for first-choice residency programs.

How important is Step 2 for IMGs?

IMGs can and do match with strong Step 2 scores.

A standout Step 2 CK score can be particularly important for international graduates, as it helps demonstrate readiness for U.S. clinical practice.

Which NBME is hardest step 2?

NBME 9 and 12 are known to be the hardest, maybe not because of true difficulty but , especially for 9, there are some poorly written questions. People tend to score slightly lower on these forms.

Can you apply to residency without a step 2 score?

Most programs do not require USMLE Step 2 CK at the time of application or interview. Please review AUC's USMLE Step 2 CK policy in the Student Handbook. It is ideal to have a USMLE Step 2 CK score reported by the time you apply to programs in September, but not necessary.

What specialty has the lowest Step 2 score?

First up with the lowest average Step 2 score is family medicine at 244. Family medicine is a specialty that continuously has the lowest Step 2 score of all specialties. That said, note that the current 244, based on 2024 data, is an increase from 241 in 2022 and 238 in 2020.

How long is your Step 2 score valid for?

Most medical licensing authorities require completion of USMLE Steps 1, 2, and 3 within a seven-year period, which begins when you pass your first Step.

How many people fail USMLE Step 2?

98% of US MD test takers passed Step 2 in 2023 (the most recently reported USMLE data). 90% of US MD test takers passed Step 1 in 2023. That's a HUGE difference. It amounts to thousands of people.

Is step2 easier than Step 1?

The main difference is that you'll use a different UWorld question bank and resources. Many students find Step 2 easier due to their clinical experience and prior shelf exam prep. However, Step 2 material is more in-depth and clinically focused, which can be a challenge for didactic learners.

Which step is the hardest in USMLE?

Step 2 had the highest passing rates for both US/Canadian students (98%) and non-US/Canadian test takers (88%). This data suggests that Step 1 was the hardest exam to pass. No matter which step you are preparing for, the USMLE exams are challenging.

Can you graduate medical school without passing step 2?

(1a) All DGSOM students must successfully pass the USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 exams in order to graduate and receive their diploma.

What is the easiest specialty to match into as an IMG?

In general, internal medicine, family medicine, and pediatrics residencies are easier for IMGs to match into since there are not enough U.S. medical graduates to fill the open positions in these specialties.

What score is 60% correct on step 2?

A 60% correct on USMLE Step 2 CK, which equals a score of around 218 (the new passing score as of July 2025), means you've met the minimum competency requirement, but to be competitive for residency, you generally need a much higher score, with averages often in the mid-240s to 250s, depending on the specialty, with higher scores like 245 (around 37th percentile) or 255 (around 60th percentile) being good targets for competitiveness, as residency programs look for scores well above the passing threshold.
 

Is 240 a bad step 2 score?

To pass the Step 2 CK exam, you have to score 218 out of 300. What qualifies as a “good” score depends on many factors: what specialty you're applying for, what program you're applying to, if you're applying to a community or an academic institution, etc. Generally, a “good” Step 2 CK score is between 240 and 260.

What is the 7 year rule for USMLE?

The USMLE 7-year rule, primarily for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) seeking ECFMG Certification, mandates completing all required USMLE Steps (1, 2 CK/CS, and eventually 3) within seven years of passing the first exam; failure to do so invalidates earlier scores, requiring retakes, though waivers or extensions may be granted for documented issues like PhD programs, severe illness, or certain military service. Most U.S. medical licensing boards also enforce this timeframe for state licensure, starting from the first successful Step pass. 

Can you match after failing step 2?

Yes. Many applicants with a Step 2 failure still match successfully. Applicants who recover well often: Pass the retake with a clear improvement.

How many attempts does step 2 have?

Students are allowed a maximum of three attempts on each of the Step 1 and Step 2 CK exams to achieve a passing score.