USMLE expiry?

**xcvb** · 14-10-2009, 09:10 PM

Hi,

Sorry if this seems a stupid question.

I was wondering if there is any time limit within which one must complete all parts of the USMLE; i.e. would it be alright if I took parts 1 and 2 now but didnt do part 2CS for another 5 years?

Thanks,

Rob

**Scottish Chap** · 15-10-2009, 08:37 PM

Originally Posted by xcvb

Hi,

Sorry if this seems a stupid question.

I was wondering if there is any time limit within which one must complete all parts of the USMLE; i.e. would it be alright if I took parts 1 and 2 now but didnt do part 2CS for another 5 years?

Thanks,

Rob

That could be a big problem. Go to the USMLE website and read the specific regulations. My memory tells me that there is a time requirement - at least between having a passing Step 1 score and applying for residency (I know this because they waive the time requirement for MD/PhD students who typically are 5-6 years removed from Step 1 before starting residency).

**jtlc2345** · 15-10-2009, 09:55 PM

You've got 7 years after passing the first exam to complete the rest of them to be eligible for ECFMG Certification - see here ECFMG 2010 Information Booklet - Examination Requirements.

Just out of interest, why would you plan to have a 5 year gap inbetween?

Jonathan

**xcvb** · 16-10-2009, 05:50 PM

I'm 1/2 American and would like to work for a few years in the USA; but I don't want a long term career there. Ideally I'd like to do a research fellowship there, maybe between ST3 and 4. However I think it would make sense to do the USMLE now before I forget it all (especially relevant as I'm going into psychiatry). I'm not really sure if this is a realistic/sensible plan though

**jtlc2345** · 16-10-2009, 09:03 PM

Originally Posted by xcvb

I'm 1/2 American and would like to work for a few years in the USA; but I don't want a long term career there. Ideally I'd like to do a research fellowship there, maybe between ST3 and 4. However I think it would make sense to do the USMLE now before I forget it all (especially relevant as I'm going into psychiatry). I'm not really sure if this is a realistic/sensible plan though

Not sure what stage you are at the moment but if you're a student, I'd go for it. I did Step 1 and 2CK this past summer after having done 2 years pre-clinical, BSc and 2 years of clinics and plan to do Step 2CS after finals next year. Not too sure if and when I would go to work in America but as you say good to get out of the way.

Jonathan

**xcvb** · 16-10-2009, 09:36 PM

Originally Posted by jtlc2345

Not sure what stage you are at the moment but if you're a student, I'd go for it. I did Step 1 and 2CK this past summer after having done 2 years pre-clinical, BSc and 2 years of clinics and plan to do Step 2CS after finals next year. Not too sure if and when I would go to work in America but as you say good to get out of the way.

Jonathan

I'm final year, it seems I've already forgotten half the pre-clinical stuff: I tried a few practice questions from the USMLE site and found them pretty hard.

How long did it take you to prepare? Do you recommend any specific books/ question banks? Also is it fairly easy to book a date for the exam - e.g could I book it just a month before I wanted to take it?

Sorry for all the questions

Thanks

Rob

**jtlc2345** · 17-10-2009, 01:32 AM

I think the general feeling is roughly 2 months or so for revision (I did less as wasn't organised enough - thankfully passed both though) - I used USMLE World (online question bank) but have no idea how this compares to the other web based programs and First Aid.

I booked about 4 months prior to my exam and dates were wide open - each time I was the only person taking the exam, although there were students taking different exams as well.

Jonathan