USMLE Step 1 Exam Dates in 2022

We’ve put together a quick guide to help students from outside of the United States apply for the USMLE® Step 1 Exam. Find out what you need to know about every aspect of the process, from your eligibility to how long it will take to get your score.

USMLE Step 1 Exam 

• Dates in 2022
• Exam Eligibility: Who can take this exam?
• How to apply through the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG)
• Costs & fees
• When will I get my exam results?

USMLE Step 1 Exam Dates in 2022

Before you schedule the date for part 1 of your USMLE boards, make sure to take a moment to determine your availability. Applicants must apply and provide a three-month eligibility period to take the exam through the ECFMG’s Interactive Web Applications (IWA). Please note your exam date cannot be scheduled on major holidays or during the first week of January. Each eligibility period will have a wide selection of test dates you can choose from.

Keep in mind that it’s important to be proactive and timely with this task! Slots fill up rapidly, and as a result, not every date will be available. Make sure to plan ahead. As we head toward the close of 2022, it’s important to apply as quickly as possible to take Step 1 before 2023.

USMLE Step 1 Exam Eligibility: Who can take it?

Before applying to take Step 1, make sure that you’re eligible. Here’s what you need to be eligible for Step 1:

• Be enrolled in medical school or a graduate school listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools that meets the eligibility for ECFMG certification and examination (both at the time of your application, and on the day of the test).
• Get authorized by an official of your school using certification of your enrollment status.
• Complete at least two years of medical school, which should encompass the basic medical science component of your curriculum.

Additionally, since you’re from outside of the US and applying to take Step 1 via the ECFMG, you need to fulfill any other mandated ECFMG criteria. 

If your eligibility status changes before you take the exam, you must notify the organization that registered you for the exam.

USMLE Step 1: How to apply through the ECFMG

Here are the steps to apply for USMLE Step 1 through the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) online portal:

Before applying, make sure you:

• Complete the Application for ECFMG Certification.
• Apply for and receive a USMLE/ECFMG identification number, and have an online services password.
• Read the ECFMG Information Booklet and USMLE Bulletin of Information sections that are relevant to your desired eligibility period. Also note that if your eligibility period extends into 2023, you should review information for 2023 as well.
• Read the application instructions.

To apply for Step 1, use ECFMG’s Interactive Web Applications (IWA). Log into your account and complete the application. You must select a three-month eligibility period during which you will take the exam.

Once they verify your eligibility, the ECFMG will issue a scheduling permit to you. You can then schedule your testing appointment. Make sure to select a date that falls within your chosen eligibility period, or you’ll have to reapply!

USMLE Step 1: Costs & fees

Budgeting is an important part of scheduling your board exams, as you must pay all applicable fees by the time you apply. Here are the costs you should be aware of.

Before applying for Step 1, you must apply for ECFMG certification, which costs $160. 

The examination fee for Step 1 is $985.

Last, but not least, make sure to factor in the International Test Delivery Surcharge, which can vary depending on where you’re testing. You can determine your expected surcharge here. 

USMLE Step 1: When will I receive my results?

USMLE Step 1 score dates are usually released approximately a month after you take the exam. Keep in mind that there may be unexpected delays, so try to be patient and allow for at least eight weeks to receive your report. You will receive an email when your score is available, so check it regularly.

Hopefully, you now feel better prepared to schedule your Step 1 exam. The most important thing to focus on is studying so that you can pass with flying colors! Take a few minutes to review our USMLE Step 1 Ultimate Guide and be prepared for that next, big step.Learn why millions of clinicians and caregivers love learning with Osmosis. Start your free trial today!