What is the best step 2 resource?

The best Step 2 resource is widely considered to be UWorld for its comprehensive question bank, often paired with AMBOSS for its detailed knowledge library, Anki for spaced repetition, and OnlineMedEd for video learning, with official NBME/CMS forms used for practice exams and identifying weaknesses, but the ideal combination depends on your learning style.

What resources to use to study for step 2?

We suggest you use resources like UWorld, OnlineMedEd, Anki, and Amboss. We encourage you to do questions throughout the year, and then take at 2-4 practice exams during your Step 2CK dedicated period.

What resources help with step 2?

1. UWorld USMLE Step 2 CK: The undisputed gold standard. UWorld remains absolutely essential, used by over 90% of medical students and universally considered the single most important Step 2 CK resource, if not for the whole USMLE prep.

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. 

What are the best resources for Step 2 reddit?

The tried and true resources are UWorld (or Amboss) for your main qbank, the NBME forms to evaluate your performance as you get closer to your exam, CMS forms to supplement weak areas, Amboss for QI, ethics, and biostatistics, and Free120 in the days before your exam.

The BEST Way to Study for USMLE Step 2 CK in 2024

Is UWorld or Amboss better?

Neither AMBOSS nor UWorld is definitively "better"; they have different strengths, with many students using both, often starting with AMBOSS for foundational learning and moving to UWorld for focused, high-yield practice as they get closer to the exam, though the choice depends on personal learning style, with AMBOSS praised for its integrated library and question customization, and UWorld lauded for its high-yield explanations and exam-like feel. 

What percentile is 270 on Step2?

A USMLE Step 2 CK score of 270 is generally around the 95th to 99th percentile, placing you in the top tier of test-takers, considered exceptional and highly competitive for nearly all residency specialties, including the most demanding fields like Dermatology and Orthopedic Surgery, especially with Step 1 being pass/fail.
 

Has anyone ever gotten a 300 on Step 2?

The highest possible score for the USMLE Step 2 CK is 300, but no one has ever achieved a “perfect” score. A score around 280 would be considered a top Step 2 CK score.

What resources help improve Step 2 scores?

12 Best USMLE Step 2 Resources for a 270+ Score in 2025

• Find Your USMLE Step 2 CK Tutor and Boost Your Score. ...
• UWorld – Step 2 CK QBank and Self-Assessments. ...
• NBME – Official Step 2 CK Self-Assessments (CCSSA) ...
• AMBOSS – Step 2 CK Qbank + Medical Library. ...
• OnlineMedEd – Clinical Video Curriculum + Notes + Questions.

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.

What are common Step 2 mistakes?

In this guide, I will discuss common mistakes students make while studying for Step 2 CK and how to avoid them.

• Using too many resources. ...
• Not approaching questions systematically. ...
• Not trusting your gut. ...
• Not preparing for test day conditions. ...
• Not taking care of yourself.

How to get 270+ on step 2?

To get a 270+ on USMLE Step 2 CK, you need a strong foundation from clerkships, master question banks like UWorld and Amboss through active learning and detailed review, use high-yield resources like Divine Intervention podcasts, take frequent NBME practice exams and CMS forms, focus on clinical reasoning over rote memorization, and develop a consistent, burnout-free study schedule, often around 4-6 weeks of dedicated study after rotations. 

Is free 120 enough to pass an exam?

Unlike the NBME Self-Assessments (NBME CSAs), the Free 120 does not provide a scaled score or likelihood to pass, so it shouldn't be used as the sole indicator of readiness for the USMLE.

Where to get free 120 for step 2?

You can download the Free 120 STEP 2 Sample Test Questions on the USMLE website here.

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. 

What 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. 

How to maximize step 2 score?

Practice Regularly

Practicing with question banks and mock exams is essential for Step 2 CK preparation. Simulate real exam conditions by timing yourself and completing question blocks in one sitting. This approach not only familiarizes you with the question style, but also builds stamina for the long test day.

Is 3 months enough for USMLE step 2?

For most medical students, 4-6 weeks of dedicated study time is sufficient to prepare for USMLE Step 2 CK. In fact, taking more than 8 weeks to study for a USMLE exam is generally not recommended.

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. 

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 I study for step 2 in 3 weeks?

The time required to study for USMLE Step 2 varies for each individual, as it depends on factors such as your familiarity with the material and your clinical experience. On average, students dedicate 4-8 weeks to focused preparation.

What's a good step 2 score in 2025?

What Is the Average USMLE Step 2 Score Range?

• 230 and below → Passing but below average; limits competitiveness in more selective specialties.
• 240–250 → Solidly within the average range; competitive for many core specialties.
• 255+ → Above average; strong candidate for competitive programs.

What is 60% on step 2?

To pass the Step 2 CK exam, you must answer at least 60% of the questions correctly, giving you a minimum score of 214. If you want a good chance of securing your desired residency placement, you should aim for a score of at least 245.

What is an elite step 2 score?

While a score of 245 generally places you at the 37th percentile, and is enough for some specialties, aiming for a score closer to the 75th percentile (around 260) is recommended.