{"id":357,"date":"2025-06-11T06:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-06-11T14:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/?p=357"},"modified":"2026-05-29T11:19:55","modified_gmt":"2026-05-29T19:19:55","slug":"all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide","title":{"rendered":"The Ultimate Guide to USMLE\u00ae Step 1 : What Every Med Student Needs to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 ez-toc-wrap-center counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">In This Article<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#What_Is_USMLE_Step_1\" >What Is USMLE Step 1?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Whats_the_Point_of_Step_1\" >What\u2019s the Point of Step 1?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#How_Hard_Is_Step_1\" >How Hard Is Step 1?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Why_Step_1_Still_Matters\" >Why Step 1 Still Matters<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#When_should_you_take_it\" >When should you take it?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Whats_on_the_USMLE_Step_1_exam\" >What\u2019s on the USMLE Step 1 exam?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#What_skills_will_the_Step_1_exam_test_me_on\" >What skills will the Step 1 exam test me on?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#What_topics_are_covered_on_Step_1\" >What topics are covered on Step 1?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#How_are_different_topics_weighted_on_USMLE_Step_1\" >How are different topics weighted on USMLE Step 1?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Whats_the_Format_Like\" >What\u2019s the Format Like?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Where_and_How_to_Register\" >Where and How to Register<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#How_Much_Does_It_Cost\" >How Much Does It Cost?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#What_About_Accommodations\" >What About Accommodations?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#USMLE_Step_1_Test_Scores_and_Exam_Length\" >USMLE Step 1 Test Scores and Exam Length<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#What_score_do_I_need_to_pass_Step_1\" >What score do I need to pass Step 1?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#PassFail_Step_1_Scoring_Explained\" >Pass\/Fail Step 1 Scoring Explained<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#How_long_is_the_Step_1_exam\" >How long is the Step 1 exam?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Whats_the_best_way_to_study_for_USMLE_Step_1\" >What&#8217;s the best way to study for USMLE Step 1?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#1_Develop_Effective_Learning_Habits\" >1. Develop Effective Learning Habits<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#A_Note_on_Spaced_Repetition\" >A Note on Spaced Repetition<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#2_How_to_Pick_a_Few_Good_Resources_and_Stick_to_Them\" >2. How to Pick a Few Good Resources and Stick to Them<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Start_Reviewing_Early\" >Start Reviewing Early<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Go_Through_Each_Resource_as_Many_Times_as_You_Need\" >Go Through Each Resource as Many Times as You Need<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Focus_on_Classical_Presentations_of_Diseases\" >Focus on Classical Presentations of Diseases<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Stop_Studying_When_You_Feel_Like_Youre_Running_Out_of_Steam\" >Stop Studying When You Feel Like You\u2019re Running Out of Steam<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Dont_Panic_If_You_See_a_Classmate_Using_a_Resource_Youre_Not_Using\" >Don\u2019t Panic If You See a Classmate Using a Resource You\u2019re Not Using&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#3_Learn_How_to_Break_Down_USMLE-style_Practice_Questions\" >3. Learn How to Break Down USMLE-style Practice Questions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#4_Make_Effective_Use_of_Flashcards\" >4. Make Effective Use of Flashcards<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#5_Practice_Multimedia_Learning\" >5. Practice Multimedia Learning<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#6_Take_Practice_Exams\" >6. Take Practice Exams<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#When_should_I_take_Step_1_practice_tests\" >When should I take Step 1 practice tests?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#7_Maintain_Healthy_Habits_in_the_Lead-up_to_the_Big_Day\" >7. Maintain Healthy Habits in the Lead-up to the Big Day<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Take_Study_Breaks\" >Take Study Breaks<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Make_Sure_to_Get_Some_Exercise\" >Make Sure to Get Some Exercise<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Eat_a_Healthy_Diet\" >Eat a Healthy Diet<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Maintain_a_Regular_Sleep_Schedule\" >Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Establish_a_Support_System_with_Friends_and_Family\" >Establish a Support System with Friends and Family<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Celebrate_Important_Study_Milestones\" >Celebrate Important Study Milestones<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-39\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Stop_Studying_the_Day_Before_the_Exam\" >Stop Studying the Day Before the Exam<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-40\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#USMLE_Step_1_Exam_Logistics_What_you_need_to_know_for_the_big_day\" >USMLE Step 1 Exam Logistics: What you need to know for the big day<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-41\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#How_do_I_apply_to_take_Step_1_as_a_US_Student\" >How do I apply to take Step 1 as a US Student?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-42\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#How_do_I_apply_to_take_Step_1_as_an_International_Medical_Student\" >How do I apply to take Step 1 as an International Medical Student?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-43\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Can_I_reschedule_my_Step_1_exam_date_if_I_need_to\" >Can I reschedule my Step 1 exam date if I need to?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-44\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#When_should_I_take_Step_1\" >When should I take Step 1?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-45\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Where_do_I_take_Step_1\" >Where do I take Step 1?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-46\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#What_can_I_expect_on_test_day\" >What can I expect on test day?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-47\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Test_Day_Tips\" >Test Day Tips<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-48\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#What_is_the_USMLE_Step_1_exam_room_like\" >What is the USMLE Step 1 exam room like?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-49\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#What_is_the_USMLE_Step_1_test_interface_like\" >What is the USMLE Step 1 test interface like?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-50\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#How_do_breaks_work_during_the_USMLE_Step_1_exam\" >How do breaks work during the USMLE Step 1 exam?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-51\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#What_should_I_bring_with_me_to_the_Prometric_test_center\" >What should I bring with me to the Prometric test center?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-52\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#I_have_a_disability_Can_the_Prometric_test_center_accommodate_my_needs\" >I have a disability. Can the Prometric test center accommodate my needs?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-53\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#What_should_I_expect_after_I_take_USMLE_Step_1\" >What should I expect after I take USMLE Step 1?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-54\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#When_will_my_Step_1_results_arrive\" >When will my Step 1 results arrive?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-55\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Didnt_pass_Whats_next\" >Didn\u2019t pass? What\u2019s next?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-56\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#How_Osmosis_Helps_You_Study\" >How Osmosis Helps You Study<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-57\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Use_the_Osmosis_Learning_Loop\" >Use the Osmosis Learning Loop<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-58\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Ace_USMLE%C2%AE_Step_1_and_Beyond_with_Osmosis_Resources\" >Ace USMLE\u00ae Step 1 and Beyond with Osmosis Resources<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-59\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Final_Thoughts\" >Final Thoughts<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-60\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\/#Key_Takeaways\" >Key Takeaways<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em><strong>USMLE\u00ae Step 1<\/strong> is the first major exam medical students take on their path to becoming a doctor. This <strong>8-hour exam<\/strong> is designed to assess your understanding of concepts in <strong>pathology<\/strong> and <strong>physiology<\/strong>. In the past, the exam was scored on a <strong>numerical basis<\/strong>, but became <strong>pass\/fail as of 2022<\/strong>. It\u2019s still important to do well on this exam and this handy guide will show you how to do just that!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-is-step-1\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_USMLE_Step_1\"><\/span>What Is USMLE Step 1?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE)<\/strong> is made up of three parts, and <strong>Step 1<\/strong> is the first. It\u2019s a <strong>standardized test<\/strong> for med students that evaluates how well you understand <strong>basic science concepts<\/strong> and how you apply them to <strong>real clinical situations<\/strong>. It\u2019s developed and sponsored by the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fsmb.org\/\">FSMB<\/a><\/strong> and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbme.org\/\">NBME<\/a><\/strong>, and passing all three steps is required to get your <strong>license to practice medicine in the US<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re gearing up for the <strong>USMLE Step 1<\/strong>, you\u2019re not alone and you\u2019re probably juggling <strong>nerves, flashcards, and a mountain of practice questions<\/strong>. Step 1 is a <strong>big deal<\/strong>. Even though it\u2019s now scored as <strong>pass\/fail<\/strong>, it still lays the <strong>foundation<\/strong> for the rest of med school and your future career. The following guide breaks it all down with <strong>plain language<\/strong>, a <strong>conversational tone<\/strong>, and <strong>practical tips<\/strong> you can actually use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We\u2019ve also structured this page so it\u2019s friendly to <strong>Google AI Overviews, ChatGPT, and other generative engines<\/strong>; meaning it\u2019s not just helpful for you, but easy for <strong>AI to summarize and share<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No doubt that since you got into <strong>medical school<\/strong>, or even before you started medical school, you\u2019ve heard how important the <strong>USMLE Step 1 Exam<\/strong> is. This is the first <strong>board exam<\/strong> you\u2019ll be taking on your journey to becoming a <strong>full-fledged physician<\/strong>\u2014and the stakes are high.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Until recently, your <strong>score<\/strong> had a huge influence on what your <strong>residency, specialty, and overall career options<\/strong> could be in the future. In fact, <a href=\"http:\/\/94% of program directors stated that a candidate\u2019s score\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>94% of program directors<\/strong> stated that a candidate\u2019s score<\/a> on <strong>USMLE Step 1\/COMLEX-USA\u00ae Level 1<\/strong> was the most important factor when offering a prospective <strong>residency interview<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now that the <strong>USMLE Step 1<\/strong> has moved to <strong>pass\/fail<\/strong>, less emphasis is placed on this exam; instead, program directors will be more focused on things like your <strong>USMLE Step 2 CK score<\/strong> and performance during your <strong>clerkships<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nevertheless, <strong>passing Step 1<\/strong> is essential if you want to continue learning <strong>medicine<\/strong>, and for now, it remains the <strong>most high-pressure exam<\/strong> you\u2019ll take on the road to residency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No big deal, right?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Well, take it from us: you\u2019re completely capable of <strong>passing this exam<\/strong> and getting a <strong>high score<\/strong>. You are a <strong>medical student<\/strong>: you\u2019ve come this far, and with the <strong>right plan<\/strong>, you\u2019ll make it all the way. <strong>Osmosis has your back!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this guide, we\u2019ll be covering <strong>everything<\/strong> (and we mean everything) about <strong>USMLE Step 1<\/strong>. So, without further ado, let\u2019s get started!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This guide was developed by <strong>medical educators and Step 1 experts<\/strong> from Osmosis by Elsevier, using <strong>verified NBME\u00ae data and peer-reviewed sources.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/plans\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/high-yield-videos-watch-now-banner.png?w=700\" alt=\"Ace USMLE Step 1 with High Yield Videos. Watch now.\" class=\"wp-image-358\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/high-yield-videos-watch-now-banner.png 700w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/high-yield-videos-watch-now-banner.png?resize=300,107 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"whats-the-point-of-step-1\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Whats_the_Point_of_Step_1\"><\/span>What\u2019s the Point of Step 1?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Step 1 tests your <strong>knowledge<\/strong> of how the <strong>human body works<\/strong> and what happens when it doesn\u2019t. The questions reflect the kinds of <strong>challenges<\/strong> you\u2019ll face as a <strong>future physician<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Step 1 assesses:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Your understanding of <strong>key scientific principles<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your ability to <strong>apply this knowledge<\/strong> to <strong>patient care<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How well you can <strong>reason through cause-and-effect<\/strong> in <strong>disease<\/strong> and <strong>treatment<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Topics covered include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/library\/md\/foundational-sciences\/anatomy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Anatomy<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/library\/md\/foundational-sciences\/physiology\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Physiology<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/library\/md\/foundational-sciences\/pathology\">Pathology<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/library\/md\/foundational-sciences\/pharmacology\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pharmacology<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/library\/md\/foundational-sciences\/biochemistry-and-nutrition\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Biochemistry &amp; Nutrition<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/library\/md\/foundational-sciences\/microbiology\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Microbiology<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/library\/md\/foundational-sciences\/behavioral-health\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Behavioral health<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/library\/md\/foundational-sciences\/genetics\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Genetics<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/library\/md\/foundational-sciences\/biostatistics,-epidemiology,-population-health,-and-interpretation-of-the-medical-literature\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Biostats, Epidemiology<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Medical ethics, nutrition, aging<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Step 1 emphasizes <strong>physiology, pharmacology, and pathology<\/strong>, which are the <strong>\u201chigh-yield\u201d topics<\/strong> that show up most often. Questions are often <strong>integrated<\/strong>, meaning a single question may touch on <strong>multiple systems<\/strong> or <strong>processes<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Hard_Is_Step_1\"><\/span>How Hard Is Step 1?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>USMLE Step 1<\/strong> is considered one of the <strong>most challenging exams in medical school<\/strong> because it covers <strong>two years of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/library\/md\/foundational-sciences\/anatomy\">foundational medical science<\/a><\/strong> in a single day-long test. Its difficulty lies in the <strong>depth and breadth of content<\/strong>, requiring not just memorization but also the ability to <strong>apply complex concepts<\/strong> to clinical scenarios. With consistent study and effective learning strategies, however, <strong>most students pass on their first attempt<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"why-step-1-matters\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Step_1_Still_Matters\"><\/span>Why Step 1 Still Matters<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even though there\u2019s no <strong>number on your score report<\/strong>, Step 1 still matters:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You need to <strong>pass<\/strong> to move forward<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Some <strong>programs<\/strong> still take your <strong>testing timeline<\/strong> and <strong>retakes<\/strong> into account<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It builds the <strong>foundation<\/strong> for <strong>Step 2 CK<\/strong> and <strong>clinical reasoning<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"when-should-you-take-step-1\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_should_you_take_it\"><\/span>When should you take it?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most students take Step 1 between their <strong>second<\/strong> and <strong>third year of med school<\/strong>\u2014after <strong>preclinical coursework<\/strong> and before starting <strong>clinical rotations<\/strong>. Aim to take it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>About <strong>4\u20138 weeks<\/strong> after finishing <strong>basic sciences<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>After a <strong>1\u20132 month dedicated study period<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"whats-on-step-1-exam\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Whats_on_the_USMLE_Step_1_exam\"><\/span>What\u2019s on the USMLE Step 1 exam?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Step 1 is a <strong>multiple-choice computerized test<\/strong> that you\u2019ll take at a <strong>designated exam center<\/strong>. The exam is divided into <strong>seven \u201cblocks\u201d<\/strong>, each containing up to <strong>40 questions<\/strong> that will test your <strong>medical knowledge<\/strong> and your <strong>analytical skills<\/strong>. You will have <strong>one hour<\/strong> to complete each block.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_skills_will_the_Step_1_exam_test_me_on\"><\/span>What skills will the Step 1 exam test me on?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In general, USMLE Step 1 will require you to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Utilize your understanding of <strong>basic scientific principles<\/strong> to solve <strong>clinical problems<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Analyze and interpret data<\/strong> (graphs, tables, oscillation media, etc.)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Recognize both <strong>normal<\/strong> and <strong>pathological processes<\/strong> from <strong>gross and microscopic specimens<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_topics_are_covered_on_Step_1\"><\/span>What topics are covered on Step 1?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">USMLE Step 1 covers a range of <strong>didactic topics<\/strong>, and evaluates you on a series of <strong>physician tasks<\/strong> and <strong>competencies<\/strong> as well:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"670\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/usmle-step-1-coverage-graph.png?w=1024\" alt=\"WHAT TOPICS ARE COVERED\nPathology: 44-52%\nPhysiology: 25-35%\nPharmacology: 15-22%\nBiochemistry &amp; Nutrition: 14-24%\nImmunology: 6-11%\nMicrobiology: 10-15%\nGross Anatomy &amp; Embryology: 11-15%\nHistology &amp; Cell Biology: 8-13%\nBehavioral Sciences: 8-13%\nGenetics: 5-9%\n\nPHYSICIAN TASKS\/COMPETENCIES\nPatient Care: Diagnosis: 20-25%\nCommunication &amp; Interpersonal Skills: 6-9%\nPractice-based Learning &amp; Improvement: 4-6%\nMedical Knowledge: Applying Foundational Science Concepts: 60-70%\n\nPercentages are subject to change at any time.\n\nIncludes History\/Physical Examination and Diagnosis\" class=\"wp-image-359\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.528357403158321;width:683px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/usmle-step-1-coverage-graph.png 1759w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/usmle-step-1-coverage-graph.png?resize=300,196 300w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/usmle-step-1-coverage-graph.png?resize=768,503 768w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/usmle-step-1-coverage-graph.png?resize=1024,670 1024w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/usmle-step-1-coverage-graph.png?resize=1536,1005 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_are_different_topics_weighted_on_USMLE_Step_1\"><\/span>How are different topics weighted on USMLE Step 1?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Test items are divided into <strong>Systems<\/strong> and <strong>Processes<\/strong> as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"993\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/system-topics.jpg?w=1024\" alt=\"SYSTEMS TOPICS\nGeneral Principles: 13-17%\nMultisystem Process &amp; Disorders: 7-11%\nRespiratory &amp; Renal\/Urinary Systems: 9-13%\nMusculoskeletal, Skin &amp; Subcutaneous Tissue: 6-10%\nCardiovascular System: 6-10%\nBehavior Health &amp; Nervous Systems\/Special Senses: 9-13%\nGastrointestinal System: 5-9%\nReproductive &amp; Endocrine Systems: 9-13%\nBlood &amp; Lymphoreticular\/Immune Systems: 7-11%\nBiostatistics &amp; Epidemiology\/Population Health: 5-7%\nSocial Sciences: Communication &amp; Interpersonal Skills: 3-5%\" class=\"wp-image-375\" style=\"width:620px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/system-topics.jpg 1300w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/system-topics.jpg?resize=300,291 300w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/system-topics.jpg?resize=768,745 768w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/system-topics.jpg?resize=1024,993 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"whats-the-format\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Whats_the_Format_Like\"><\/span>What\u2019s the Format Like?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s what you can expect:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A <strong>single-day exam<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>8 hours<\/strong> of total testing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>7 blocks<\/strong> of up to <strong>40 multiple-choice questions<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Up to <strong>280 questions<\/strong> in total<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Each block gives you <strong>60 minutes<\/strong> to work<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You get at least <strong>45 minutes of break time<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>There\u2019s an <strong>optional 15-minute tutorial<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019ll take it at a <strong>Prometric test center<\/strong> on a <strong>computer<\/strong>. Bring your <strong>ID<\/strong> and <strong>scheduling permit<\/strong>, and make sure to <strong>plan your breaks strategically<\/strong> so you can perform at your best.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"to-register\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_and_How_to_Register\"><\/span>Where and How to Register<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>U.S. and Canadian students<\/strong>: Sign up through the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myusmle.org\/s\/login\/?ec=302&amp;startURL=%2Fs%2F\">NBME<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>International students<\/strong>: Go through the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/secure2.ecfmg.org\/emain.asp?app=iwa\">ECFMG<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Schedule your exam and choose your <strong>testing center<\/strong> on the <strong>Prometric website<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-much-does-it-cost\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Much_Does_It_Cost\"><\/span>How Much Does It Cost?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As of 2026, the USMLE Step 1 registration fee is <strong>$695<\/strong> for students and graduates of U.S. medical schools. If you\u2019re testing <strong>outside the U.S.<\/strong> through <strong>ECFMG<\/strong>, there will likely be <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ecfmg.org\/fees\/index.html\"><strong>additional fees<\/strong><\/a>. Fees can change, so it\u2019s best to confirm current pricing on the official USMLE\/<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbme.org\/examinees\/united-states-medical-licensing-exam-usmle#exam-fees\">NBME website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"accommodations\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_About_Accommodations\"><\/span>What About Accommodations?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you need <strong>extra time, breaks, or other support<\/strong>, apply early through the <strong>NBME<\/strong> or <strong>ECFMG<\/strong>. These requests are <strong>confidential<\/strong> and can make a big difference in the <strong>outcome of your exam<\/strong>. Refer to the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.usmle.org\/what-to-know\/test-accommodations\">NBME website<\/a><\/strong> to make <strong>accommodation requests<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"step-1-test-scores-exam-length\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"USMLE_Step_1_Test_Scores_and_Exam_Length\"><\/span>USMLE Step 1 Test Scores and Exam Length<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_score_do_I_need_to_pass_Step_1\"><\/span>What score do I need to pass Step 1?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On <strong>February 12, 2020<\/strong>, the <strong>NRMP<\/strong> announced that scoring for <strong>USMLE Step 1<\/strong> will be changed to <strong>pass\/fail<\/strong>. The transition from <strong>numeric scoring<\/strong> to <strong>pass\/fail<\/strong> began with exams taken on or after <strong>January 26, 2022<\/strong>. To learn more, visit <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.usmle.org\/\">USMLE.org<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"PassFail_Step_1_Scoring_Explained\"><\/span>Pass\/Fail Step 1 Scoring Explained<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>USMLE Step 1<\/strong> now uses a <strong>pass\/fail scoring system<\/strong>, meaning students no longer receive a numeric score. Instead, performance is reported simply as <strong>\u201cPass\u201d or \u201cFail.\u201d<\/strong> This change shifts the focus from test scores to <strong>clinical readiness<\/strong> and helps reduce <strong>student stress and competition<\/strong>. Passing Step 1 remains a crucial milestone toward <strong>medical licensure and residency eligibility<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_long_is_the_Step_1_exam\"><\/span>How long is the Step 1 exam?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The whole Step 1 exam takes about 8 hours, broken down as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Tutorial:&nbsp;<\/strong>15 minutes (<strong>optional<\/strong>\u2014more on that later)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Breaks:<\/strong>&nbsp;45 minutes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>7 Testing blocks:<\/strong>&nbsp;60 minutes per block (~1.5 minutes per question)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are some nuances around <strong>breaks <\/strong>that we\u2019ll cover in more detail in the <strong>Step 1 Logistics section<\/strong> later in this guide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"334\" height=\"371\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/06\/test-time-breakdown.png\" alt=\"USMLE STEP 1: TEST TIME BREAKDOWN\nTutorial: 15 minutes\nBreaks: 45 minutes\n7 Testing Blocks (60 minutes per block): 420 minutes\" class=\"wp-image-531\" style=\"width:316px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/06\/test-time-breakdown.png 334w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/06\/test-time-breakdown.png?resize=270,300 270w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 334px) 100vw, 334px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"best-way-to-study-for-step-1\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Whats_the_best_way_to_study_for_USMLE_Step_1\"><\/span>What&#8217;s the best way to study for USMLE Step 1?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now that you have a sense of what you\u2019re going to be tested on, it\u2019s time to come up with a <strong>strategy<\/strong> for how you\u2019re going to learn all this <strong>information<\/strong> for the <strong>exam<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Studying for <strong>Step 1<\/strong> isn\u2019t like studying for any other exam you\u2019ve taken. You need to know <strong>two years\u2019 worth of medical school information<\/strong> inside and out. Solidifying your knowledge of this <strong>gargantuan amount of complex information<\/strong> requires a <strong>game plan<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Develop_Effective_Learning_Habits\"><\/span>1. Develop Effective Learning Habits<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Learning <\/strong>is a <strong>science<\/strong>, and there are many <strong>proven techniques<\/strong> that will make your life a whole lot easier in the lead-up to <strong>Step 1<\/strong>. For example, we suggest taking advantage of some or all of these <strong>six proven learning science techniques<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Testing_effect\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Testing effect<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Spaced_repetition\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Spaced repetition<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Interleaved_practice\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Interleaving<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Multimedia_learning\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Multimedia learning<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/active-recall-the-most-effective-high-yield-learning-technique\">Active recall<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Elaborative interrogation<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Concrete examples<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"A_Note_on_Spaced_Repetition\"><\/span>A Note on Spaced Repetition<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Spaced repetition<\/strong> is a big part of why <strong>learning by Osmosis<\/strong> is so effective. But what is <strong>spaced repetition<\/strong> and how does it work?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Spaced repetition<\/strong> is the act of <strong>retrieving knowledge at increasing intervals<\/strong> to <strong>reduce forgetting<\/strong> and <strong>enhance long-term learning<\/strong>. Essentially, you\u2019re <strong>reviewing information repeatedly over time<\/strong> to <strong>burn it into your long-term memory<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Timing this manually can be difficult<\/strong>, which is why <strong>technology-enhanced learning<\/strong> is so effective. The <strong>Osmosis platform uses a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/why-osmosis\/spaced-repetition\">s<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/learning-how-to-use-spaced-repetition-in-medical-school\">paced repetition<\/a> algorithm<\/strong> to <strong>test you on key information at optimal times<\/strong> to <strong>aid memory retrieval<\/strong> and <strong>help you build a knowledge foundation that will last for a lifetime<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_How_to_Pick_a_Few_Good_Resources_and_Stick_to_Them\"><\/span>2. How to Pick a Few Good Resources and Stick to Them<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There\u2019s a <strong>glut of study resources<\/strong> out there for Step 1, and it can be tough to find the <strong>right fit<\/strong>. Some students will <strong>oversaturate themselves with resources<\/strong>\u2014this trial and error process can mean a lot of <strong>wasted time<\/strong> early in the study period. So how do you choose?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>UFAP study resources (UWorld\u00ae, First Aid\u00ae, Pathoma\u00ae)<\/strong> are great, but <strong>combining UFAPO with the resources in Osmosis\u2014is even better<\/strong>. Think of <strong>Osmosis as your HQ<\/strong> and <strong>right-hand person<\/strong> for this momentous challenge ahead of you. All of the <strong>UFAP resources can be integrated into the Osmosis Study Schedule<\/strong> for a <strong>completely seamless learning experience<\/strong> that <strong>covers all of your bases<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With <strong>Osmosis<\/strong>, you\u2019ll also have the additional support of our <strong><a href=\"http:\/\/extensive video library\">extensive video library<\/a><\/strong>, which <strong>brings to life the topics covered in First Aid and UWorld\u2019s question explanations<\/strong>\u2014allowing you to have a <strong>better grasp of the material<\/strong> and be <strong>more confident on the day of your Step 1 exam<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These <strong>videos cover important topics<\/strong> like <strong>basic sciences, biostatistics, epidemiology, pharmacology, microbiology, pathology, physiology, and more<\/strong>. Once you\u2019ve watched the <strong>pathology videos<\/strong>, you can kick your studying into <strong>high gear<\/strong> with our <strong>High Yield Pathology series<\/strong>, which has been specifically designed to <strong>highlight all of the important concepts needed for the USMLE Step 1<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Additionally, <strong>Osmosis also has 3,000+ USMLE Step 1-style practice questions<\/strong> on <strong>pre-clerkship subjects including pathology, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and pharmacology<\/strong>. As of <strong>December 2022<\/strong>, the <strong>Osmosis medical assessment team completed a thorough audit<\/strong> of thousands of <strong>board-style questions<\/strong>, with the goal of <strong>reviewing to ensure that every question is patient-first, inclusive, and aligned with what students need to know to be successful on your board exams<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Additionally, <strong>Osmosis also has flashcards, questions, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/why-osmosis\/spaced-repetition\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">High-Yield Notes<\/a><\/strong> that can further assist you in your <strong>mastery of your preclinical knowledge<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every <strong>learner will take a different approach<\/strong> with regard to how they use these <strong>resources<\/strong>. In our next section, we\u2019ll go over some <strong>general tips<\/strong> to <strong>steer you on the right path<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"442\" height=\"294\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/student-reviewing.png\" alt=\"A student reviewing the material, taking notes, and answering questions.\" class=\"wp-image-362\" style=\"width:376px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/student-reviewing.png 442w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/student-reviewing.png?resize=300,200 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 442px) 100vw, 442px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Start_Reviewing_Early\"><\/span>Start Reviewing Early<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>sooner you start studying for Step 1, the better<\/strong>. You should <strong>be regularly reviewing concepts<\/strong> you\u2019ve already learned throughout the year to <strong>ingrain them into your long-term memory<\/strong>. This will <strong>save you time during your dedicated study period<\/strong>, as you\u2019ll already be <strong>building on a strong base of knowledge<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some students like to <strong>start studying very early<\/strong> and <strong>take a practice exam before their dedicated study period begins<\/strong>. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbme.org\/Students\/sas\/sas.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">NBME self-assessments<\/a><\/strong> will <strong>highlight your weak areas<\/strong>, giving you a better idea of <strong>where you should focus your studying<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Go_Through_Each_Resource_as_Many_Times_as_You_Need\"><\/span>Go Through Each Resource as Many Times as You Need<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A quick online search will reveal <strong>endless Step 1 prep resources <\/strong>from students\u2014you have to <strong>pick what\u2019s right for you<\/strong>. A general rule for knowing if you\u2019ve <strong>studied a topic enough<\/strong> is to <strong>try explaining the concepts to someone<\/strong>. If the information comes easily, you\u2019ve <strong>learned it<\/strong>; if you find yourself struggling, you <strong>still have work to do<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Focus_on_Classical_Presentations_of_Diseases\"><\/span>Focus on Classical Presentations of Diseases<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you\u2019re <strong>studying pathology for the exam<\/strong>, focus specifically on the <strong>typical presentations of diseases<\/strong>, as the exam will only <strong>test you on these<\/strong>. If you try to <strong>think about all the possible ways a condition can manifest<\/strong>, you will <strong>end up overthinking things and potentially trip yourself up<\/strong>. <strong>Familiarize yourself with the basics and trust your gut<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stop_Studying_When_You_Feel_Like_Youre_Running_Out_of_Steam\"><\/span>Stop Studying When You Feel Like You\u2019re Running Out of Steam<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019ve been studying for over 10 hours and feel like things just aren\u2019t sticking anymore, chances are, they aren\u2019t. You might have a classmate flexing about pulling regular all-night sessions, but you don\u2019t know how much of that time is actually productive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some students feel \u201cguilty\u201d about taking study breaks. If it helps, consider breaking up your study periods with other \u201cproductive\u201d activities, like exercise or meal prep. <strong>Whatever you do, step away from the books, and close your computer\u2014you need this time to absorb the knowledge you\u2019re trying to retain.<\/strong> <strong>It\u2019s all part of the process!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Dont_Panic_If_You_See_a_Classmate_Using_a_Resource_Youre_Not_Using\"><\/span>Don\u2019t Panic If You See a Classmate Using a Resource You\u2019re Not Using&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As we\u2019ve mentioned already, <strong>everyone will take a slightly different approach to learning for Step 1.<\/strong> <strong>Find the resources <em>that work for you<\/em>, <em>and stick with them<\/em>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/plans\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/health-medicine-try-it-now.png?w=700\" alt=\"The most powerful platform for learning medicine and the health sciences Try it now button.\" class=\"wp-image-363\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/health-medicine-try-it-now.png 700w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/health-medicine-try-it-now.png?resize=300,107 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Learn_How_to_Break_Down_USMLE-style_Practice_Questions\"><\/span>3. Learn How to Break Down USMLE-style Practice Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Knowing your systems and processes inside and out is just one aspect of studying for Step 1. You\u2019ll also need to be familiar with <strong>how USMLE\u00ae questions are structured<\/strong> so you can quickly eliminate incorrect answer options and make the best choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Osmosis has several resources that show you how to <strong>develop the right mindset to ace Step 1 questions<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/category\/questions\/step-1-questions\">The Osmosis Collection of Step 1 Practice Questions<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/the-breakdown-of-usmle-step-1-what-you-need-to-know\"><strong>The Breakdown of USMLE\u00ae Step 1: What You Need to Know<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-use-osmosis-quizzes-to-prep-for-usmle-step-1\"><strong>How to Use Osmosis Quizzes to Prep for USMLE\u00ae Step 1<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-study-anatomy-tips-and-tricks-from-health-professionals\"><strong>How to Study Anatomy: Tips and Tricks from Health Professionals<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>How to Ace Med School &amp; The USMLE with Dr. Maddison Caterine<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Breaking Down USMLE Step 1 Questions with Dr. Justin Ling<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you\u2019re done with these resources, try putting your learnings into action with the <strong>Osmosis Q-Bank, which contains more than 3,000+ Step 1-style practice questions.<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/qbank\/med\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>\u2192&nbsp;Get started with the Osmosis Question Bank.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Make_Effective_Use_of_Flashcards\"><\/span>4. Make Effective Use of Flashcards<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Flashcards are a convenient way to <strong>learn a high volume of information quickly<\/strong>. They\u2019re best suited for learning individual facts rather than interconnected concepts, and they\u2019re a great way to study on the go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Osmosis has <strong>16,500+ flashcards<\/strong> built into the platform, all containing information you may need to know for Step 1. You can also build your own flashcard decks on Osmosis using the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/flashcards\">Flashcard Builder<\/a><\/strong>. An added bonus: <strong>Osmosis automatically works spaced repetition into your flashcard queue, <\/strong>delivering a method for reviewing concepts that are based on learning science.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Practice_Multimedia_Learning\"><\/span>5. Practice Multimedia Learning<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Multimedia learning<\/strong> is when you incorporate written, visual, and audio materials into your learning. This is the essence of <strong>learning by Osmosis!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you learn from a variety of <strong>sensory stimuli<\/strong>, that information is processed into smaller \u201cbits\u201d which become part of your <strong>working memory<\/strong>. Combining the words you read and listen to with <strong>visual images<\/strong> helps your <strong>working memory process them together as<\/strong> <strong>integrated \u201c<a href=\"http:\/\/chunks\">chunks<\/a>\u201d<\/strong> which moves the concepts into your <strong>long-term memory<\/strong> more efficiently and forms <strong>stronger links with information you\u2019ve already learned.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"808\" height=\"601\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/learning-materials.png\" alt=\"A collection of screenshots from inside of the Osmosis from Elsevier platform, with examples of Notes, a video, a quiz question, and a flashcard to illustrate what's available and what it looks like in-product.\" class=\"wp-image-364\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.3444547420451034;width:419px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/learning-materials.png 808w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/learning-materials.png?resize=300,223 300w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/learning-materials.png?resize=768,571 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 808px) 100vw, 808px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Take_Practice_Exams\"><\/span>6. Take Practice Exams<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a <strong>$75 fee<\/strong>, you can visit your local <strong>Prometric test center<\/strong> and take a <strong>short practice test<\/strong> in the same environment that you\u2019ll take the <strong>actual Step 1 exam<\/strong>. These practice tests are <strong>shorter than the exam you\u2019ll take on test day<\/strong>, clocking in at around <strong>3.5 hours<\/strong>, but they\u2019re a good way to <strong>familiarize yourself with the exam setting<\/strong>. To learn more and register, visit the <strong><a href=\"http:\/\/USMLE website\">USMLE websit<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/apps.nbme.org\/CBTPSRegistrationWeb\/jsp\/usmle_CBTPS_registration.jsp\">e<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Step 1 is a long examination<\/strong>, and you need to be prepared to deal with what can be a <strong>physically and mentally exhausting experience<\/strong>. To get a feel for this, you should try to <strong>simulate the test environment<\/strong> with <strong>at-home practice tests<\/strong> before you take the exam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>NBME\u2019s comprehensive self-assessments<\/strong> will help you identify <strong>key areas you need to focus on<\/strong> to improve your score. Typically, they\u2019re about <strong>4 hours long<\/strong>\u2014doing <strong>two of these back-to-back<\/strong> is grueling, but good training for <strong>test day<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbme.org\/Students\/sas\/sas.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u2192&nbsp;Learn more about <strong>NBME self-assessment services.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A note about <strong>NBME practice tests<\/strong>: many students <strong>obsess over their practice test scores<\/strong> and cause themselves <strong>undue stress<\/strong>. Think of this as a <strong>practice run<\/strong>, not an <strong>exact predictor of your Step 1 score<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_should_I_take_Step_1_practice_tests\"><\/span>When should I take Step 1 practice tests?&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every student will approach <strong>practice tests<\/strong> differently. There are a range of approaches, and you should <strong>do what works for you<\/strong>. Some students may take a <strong>practice test every 2\u20133 weeks<\/strong> during their <strong>dedicated study period<\/strong>, including one at the <strong>Prometric test center<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whatever your approach, try to take a <strong>practice test at least a month before the actual exam<\/strong>. This way, if you don\u2019t get a <strong>score that is within the range you want<\/strong>, you\u2019ll have time to <strong>reevaluate your goals<\/strong> and <strong>rethink your strategy<\/strong> with <strong>minimal stress<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/study\/calendar\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Osmosis Step 1 Study Schedul<\/strong><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/schedule\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>e<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;will automatically <strong>integrate practice exams<\/strong> into your schedule if you <strong>create one during the dedicated period<\/strong>, which ranges from <strong>4-8 weeks from your test date<\/strong>. The platform will <strong>pick the optimal days<\/strong> for you to take your <strong>practice tests<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Are you a little <strong>further out from your test date<\/strong>, or maybe you don\u2019t have a date selected yet but still want to <strong>incorporate some practice exams<\/strong> into your schedule? The <strong>Step 1 Study Schedule<\/strong> allows you to <strong>input these dates manually<\/strong>, along with other resources (<strong>question banks, books, and videos<\/strong>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udca1<em> <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/plans\">Start your free Osmosis Step 1 prep toda<\/a><\/strong><\/em><strong><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/plans\">y!<\/a><\/em><\/strong> <em>Explore <strong>1,600+ USMLE videos, 4,700+ practice questions<\/strong>, and create a <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/schedule\">personalized study schedule<\/a><\/strong> to make your learning stick.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/healthy-habits.png\" alt=\"Healthy habits:\nGet sleep\nEat healthy foods\nGet outdoors\nExercise\nHave a support system\" class=\"wp-image-365\" style=\"width:473px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/healthy-habits.png 700w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/healthy-habits.png?resize=300,214 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Maintain_Healthy_Habits_in_the_Lead-up_to_the_Big_Day\"><\/span>7. Maintain Healthy Habits in the Lead-up to the Big Day<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keeping a healthy routine should be part of every study plan. Physical and mental self-care is crucial for thriving in every stage of your medical education, but the months, weeks and days leading up to your first board exam are particularly stressful. Here are a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/2019\/12\/03\/how-to-manage-excessive-exam-anxiety\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>few quick tips for maintaining equilibrium<\/strong>&nbsp;<strong>and managing any last-minute exam-day jitters<\/strong><\/a><strong>&nbsp;<\/strong>so you feel fully ready to crush Step 1 on test day. And remember: test anxiety is a real (and solvable!) problem that many students face. Check out our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/ace-classes-and-boards#webinars\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">two-part webinar<\/a>&nbsp;on the topic, and always feel empowered to ask for professional help if you need it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/events\/video\/overcoming-test-anxiety,-part-one:-structured-studying-with-dr.-marina-horiates\"><strong>\u2192 Get more tips for managing Step 1 test-day anxiety<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keeping a <strong>healthy routine<\/strong> should be part of every <strong>study plan<\/strong>. <strong>Physical and mental self-care<\/strong> is crucial for thriving in every stage of your <strong>medical education<\/strong>, but the <strong>months, weeks, and days<\/strong> leading up to your <strong>first board exam<\/strong> are particularly stressful. Here are a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/2019\/12\/03\/how-to-manage-excessive-exam-anxiety\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">few quick tips for maintaining <strong>equilibrium&nbsp;<\/strong>and managing any <strong>last-minute exam-day jitters<\/strong><\/a> so you feel fully ready to <strong>crush Step 1 on test day<\/strong>. And remember: <strong>test anxiety<\/strong> is a real (and solvable!) problem that many students face. Check out our <strong>two-part webinar<\/strong> on the topic, and always feel empowered to <strong>ask for professional help<\/strong> if you need it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Take_Study_Breaks\"><\/span>Take Study Breaks<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Taking a <strong>break<\/strong> will give your <strong>brain time to absorb information<\/strong> for the <strong>long term<\/strong>. Once you see your <strong>productivity levels starting to flag<\/strong>, it\u2019s time to <strong>step away from the books<\/strong> and do something else, even if it\u2019s just for a few minutes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/the-ultimate-guide-to-wellness-in-your-health-professional-program\"><strong>\u2192&nbsp;Get some helpful tips on staying happy and healthy while in medical school.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Make_Sure_to_Get_Some_Exercise\"><\/span>Make Sure to Get Some Exercise<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Physical exercise<\/strong> has <strong>positive benefits for cognitive performance<\/strong>. It\u2019s also a great way to <strong>blow off steam<\/strong> (and manage <strong>anxiety<\/strong>). <strong>Osmosis learners Abe Baker (University of Illinois College of Medicine, Rockford) and Percy Takyi (Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine)<\/strong> both watch <strong>Osmosis videos<\/strong> while they <strong>exercise<\/strong>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/2019\/12\/05\/multitasking-with-osmosis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Multitasking with Osmosis<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/2019\/08\/29\/establishing-balance-in-medical-school\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Establishing Balance in Medical School<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/the-best-resolutions-for-healthcare-students-in-2025#Prioritize_Your_Physical_Health\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Prioritize Your Physical Health<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Eat_a_Healthy_Diet\"><\/span>Eat a Healthy Diet<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When it comes to <strong>Step 1 studying<\/strong>, <strong>ramen noodles<\/strong> aren\u2019t going to cut it. You need to <strong>eat real brain food<\/strong>. Eating a <strong>healthy, balanced diet<\/strong> of <strong>green vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins<\/strong> will keep you <strong>alert and focused<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/2019\/07\/05\/5-ways-to-get-your-health-back-on-track\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>5 Ways to Get Your Health Back on Track<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/2020\/01\/14\/how-to-meal-plan-in-medical-school\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>How to Meal Plan in Medical School<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Maintain_a_Regular_Sleep_Schedule\"><\/span>Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Proper sleep hygiene<\/strong> is important. Going to <strong>bed at a consistent time<\/strong> every night will keep your <strong>brain well-rested<\/strong>, which helps <strong>strengthen connections<\/strong> between ideas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/why-sleep-is-so-important-during-your-healthcare-training\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u2192&nbsp;Find out why sleep is so important when you&#8217;re in training<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While it might be tempting to <strong>sneak in a few flashcards on your phone before bed<\/strong>, try to <strong>avoid doing this<\/strong>. <strong>Stop studying, switch off<\/strong>, and avoid <strong>screens at least an hour before bed<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Establish_a_Support_System_with_Friends_and_Family\"><\/span>Establish a Support System with Friends and Family<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Maintaining <a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-manage-relationships-while-in-med-school\"><strong>relationships<\/strong><\/a> is challenging during <strong>medical school<\/strong>, especially during your <strong>Step 1 study period<\/strong>, but it\u2019s very important for your <strong>mental well-being<\/strong>. Whoever you choose to be part of your <strong>support network<\/strong>, make sure to <strong>stay in regular contact<\/strong> with them. Having someone to <strong>cheer you on<\/strong> as you reach towards your <strong>goals<\/strong> is incredibly motivating!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Celebrate_Important_Study_Milestones\"><\/span>Celebrate Important Study Milestones<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Studying for <strong>Step 1<\/strong> is like a <strong>marathon<\/strong>\u2014you have to <strong>pace yourself<\/strong>! And every once in a while, that means <strong>taking a study break<\/strong>. <strong>Small goals<\/strong> are worth acknowledging, and it really helps to have <strong>something to look forward to<\/strong> at the end of a period of <strong>dedicated review<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stop_Studying_the_Day_Before_the_Exam\"><\/span>Stop Studying the Day Before the Exam<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now, this one might be a little controversial for <strong>die-hard USMLE preppers<\/strong>. But hear us out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dedicate the <strong>day before the exam<\/strong> to <strong>getting yourself into the right headspace<\/strong>. <strong>Relax, recharge<\/strong>, and take care of <strong>last-minute housekeeping tasks<\/strong>, like <strong>figuring out how to get to the test center<\/strong>, <strong>checking the weather<\/strong>, and <strong>preparing your snacks<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And, as a reminder, <strong>go to bed on time<\/strong>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"610\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/03\/woman-relaxing-on-couch.png\" alt=\"A person sitting on a purple couch, smiling with a cup in their hand, scratching a happy dog's belly. Everyone is clearly happy and calm.\" class=\"wp-image-4641\" style=\"width:517px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/03\/woman-relaxing-on-couch.png 800w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/03\/woman-relaxing-on-couch.png?resize=300,229 300w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/03\/woman-relaxing-on-couch.png?resize=768,586 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"step-1-exam-logistics\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"USMLE_Step_1_Exam_Logistics_What_you_need_to_know_for_the_big_day\"><\/span>USMLE Step 1 Exam Logistics: What you need to know for the big day<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now that you\u2019re familiar with what\u2019s on it, how to <strong>study for the USMLE Step 1 exam<\/strong>, and how to <strong>mentally and physically prepare<\/strong>, it\u2019s time to look at <strong>practical details<\/strong>, like <strong>registering for<\/strong> and <strong>taking the exam<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Clinician&#039;s Corner: Tips on how to study smarter\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/gpqmrWY1EDQ?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_I_apply_to_take_Step_1_as_a_US_Student\"><\/span>How do I apply to take Step 1 as a US Student?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To <strong>register for the exam<\/strong>, you\u2019ll need to visit the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/apps.nbme.org\/nlesweb\/#\/login\">NBME\u00ae Licensing Examination Services<\/a> website<\/strong>, input your information, and pay a <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbme.org\/students\/examfees.html\">$645 registration fee<\/a><\/strong>. You\u2019ll then need to <strong>coordinate with your institution<\/strong> to have your <strong>documents sent to the NBME head office<\/strong> for processing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After you receive your <strong>email confirming your three-month testing window<\/strong>, head to the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.prometric.com\/usmle\">Prometric website<\/a><\/strong> to <strong>schedule a specific date<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_I_apply_to_take_Step_1_as_an_International_Medical_Student\"><\/span>How do I apply to take Step 1 as an International Medical Student?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re an <strong>International Medical Student<\/strong> (you attend a <strong>medical school outside of the U.S. and Canada<\/strong>), you\u2019ll have to <strong>register through the <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/secure2.ecfmg.org\/emain.asp?app=iwa\"><strong>Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG\u00ae)<\/strong>.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_reschedule_my_Step_1_exam_date_if_I_need_to\"><\/span>Can I reschedule my Step 1 exam date if I need to?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. <strong>31 days or more<\/strong> from your <strong>scheduled exam date<\/strong> is <strong>free<\/strong>, closer to the exam incurs a <strong>fee<\/strong>. Get the specifics&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.usmle.org\/apply\/rescheduling-fees.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>here<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_should_I_take_Step_1\"><\/span>When should I take Step 1?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>U.S. medical students<\/strong> typically take Step 1 in <strong>April<\/strong>, at the end of their <strong>dedicated study period<\/strong>, but it varies by institution. Some students don\u2019t take it until the <strong>third year<\/strong>, when they\u2019re in the midst of <strong>clinical rotations<\/strong>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>International students<\/strong> will often take Step 1 during the <strong>summer between their preclinical years<\/strong> and the start of <strong>clerkship<\/strong> (e.g., the summer after the <strong>second year<\/strong> in a <strong>four-year program<\/strong>), or after the <strong>fourth year<\/strong> in a <strong>six-year program<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whenever you end up taking Step 1, make sure you give yourself plenty of time for review.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.aamc.org\/system\/files\/c\/2\/432966-designatedstep1study.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Programs vary<\/a>&nbsp;in their allotted Step 1 dedicated period for students. We do recommend beginning your prep 3-6 months before your exam, but on average, 5-8 weeks (or 40 dedicated days, not including weekends or break days) is the recommended amount of time for a dedicated study period. However, now that Step 1 is pass\/fail, you may need even less time for a dedicated study period (and programs may subsequently move toward allotting shorter dedicated periods for students).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whenever you end up taking Step 1, make sure you give yourself <strong>plenty of time for review<\/strong>. Programs vary in their allotted <strong>Step 1 dedicated period<\/strong> for students. We recommend beginning your prep <strong>3\u20136 months before your exam<\/strong>, but on average, <strong>5\u20138 weeks<\/strong> (or <strong>40 dedicated days<\/strong>, not including weekends or break days) is the recommended amount of time for a <strong>dedicated study period<\/strong>. However, now that Step 1 is <strong>pass\/fail<\/strong>, you may need even <strong>less time<\/strong> for a <strong>dedicated study period<\/strong> (and programs may subsequently move toward <strong>allotting shorter dedicated periods<\/strong> for students).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_do_I_take_Step_1\"><\/span>Where do I take Step 1?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>USMLE Step 1 exams<\/strong> take place at <strong>Prometric test centers<\/strong> around the country. To find where your <strong>nearest test center<\/strong> is, plug your <strong>ZIP code<\/strong> into <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.prometric.com\/test-takers\/search\/usmle\">Prometric\u2019s website<\/a><\/strong>, and be sure to save <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.prometric.com\/closures\">Prometric\u2019s Closures page<\/a><\/strong>, which is updated daily with any <strong>temporary closures<\/strong> due to <strong>extreme weather, technical issues, pandemic impacts<\/strong>, or other circumstances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_can_I_expect_on_test_day\"><\/span>What can I expect on test day?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You need to <strong>show up for the exam at least 30 minutes before<\/strong> the scheduled time to <strong>check in<\/strong>. If you\u2019re <strong>late<\/strong>, you won\u2019t be allowed to take the exam. Bring a <strong>government-issued ID<\/strong> with a <strong>name that matches your scheduling notification<\/strong>. The exam center will provide you with a <strong>temporary locker<\/strong> for your belongings, which you can access during your <strong>breaks<\/strong>. You\u2019re <strong>not allowed to bring anything<\/strong> into the exam room with you, save for your <strong>ID, locker key<\/strong>, and <strong>soft earplugs<\/strong>, and <strong>noise-canceling headphones<\/strong> provided by the test center.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"565\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/prohibited-items.jpg\" alt=\"A graphic showing what's prohibited from exam spaces:\n* Hats\n* Drinks in cups or cans\n* Backpacks\n* Notes or notebooks\n*Jackets\n* Watches\n* Smartphones\/mobile phones\n* Food\/Snacks\" class=\"wp-image-367\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.2389451788230557;width:384px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/prohibited-items.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/prohibited-items.jpg?resize=300,242 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Test_Day_Tips\"><\/span>Test Day Tips<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Bring your <strong>ID, locker key, soft earplugs, and scheduling permit<\/strong> with you<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Store <strong>food and water<\/strong> in a locker for <strong>breaks<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Only <strong>soft foam earplugs<\/strong> or <strong>noise-canceling headphones<\/strong> provided by the <strong>test center<\/strong> are allowed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>No electronics<\/strong> (including your <strong>phone<\/strong>), <strong>notes<\/strong>, or <strong>heavy clothing<\/strong> allowed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You cannot access <strong>personal items mid-exam<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Items like <strong>eyeglasses<\/strong> will be inspected to check for <strong>cameras<\/strong>, and all <strong>jewelry<\/strong>, with the exception of <strong>wedding rings<\/strong>, is <strong>forbidden<\/strong>. <strong>Empty your pockets<\/strong>, and prepare to be scanned with a <strong>metal detector<\/strong> before entering the exam room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_USMLE_Step_1_exam_room_like\"><\/span>What is the USMLE Step 1 exam room like?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In a typical scenario, you\u2019ll enter an <strong>exam room<\/strong> that looks like an <strong>office space<\/strong>. There will be <strong>cubicles with individual computers<\/strong>. You\u2019ll be told which is <strong>yours<\/strong> before entering the exam room. If you experience <strong>issues with your assigned computer<\/strong>, inform <strong>staff immediately<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_USMLE_Step_1_test_interface_like\"><\/span>What is the USMLE Step 1 test interface like?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>USMLE Step 1 test interface<\/strong> is pretty simple\u2014you can check out a <strong>working version <a href=\"https:\/\/orientation.nbme.org\/Launch\/USMLE\/STPF1\">here<\/a><\/strong>. We\u2019ve also put together this <strong>image highlighting the basic features and their functionality<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_breaks_work_during_the_USMLE_Step_1_exam\"><\/span>How do breaks work during the USMLE Step 1 exam?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>USMLE Step 1 test-takers<\/strong> are entitled to <strong>45 minutes of break time<\/strong> throughout the course of the exam. You can take up to <strong>six breaks<\/strong> (i.e., one break between every <strong>testing block<\/strong>). You <strong>cannot break in the middle of a block<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How you <strong>use your break time<\/strong> is up to you. Some <strong>test-takers<\/strong> will take a <strong>break every block<\/strong>, while others will take a <strong>longer break every two blocks<\/strong>. If you <strong>finish a block early<\/strong>, you can <strong>leave the exam room<\/strong>, and that time will be <strong>added to your break period<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can also <strong>add to your break period<\/strong> by <strong>skipping the 15-minute tutorial session<\/strong> at the beginning of the exam. Test-takers can do the <strong>tutorial at home<\/strong> before heading to the test center. If you\u2019re familiar with <strong>NBME practice exams<\/strong> (and you should be!) or platforms that use a <strong>similar interface<\/strong>, like <strong>UWorld<\/strong>, you should also be fine to <strong>skip the tutorial<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_should_I_bring_with_me_to_the_Prometric_test_center\"><\/span>What should I bring with me to the Prometric test center?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bring a <strong>water bottle<\/strong> and some <strong>light snacks<\/strong> to eat between <strong>test blocks<\/strong>. Avoid a <strong>full lunch<\/strong>, as it could make you <strong>sleepy<\/strong>. We recommend <strong>healthy foods<\/strong> that will give you <strong>quick energy boosts<\/strong>, like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>(Note: When you leave the exam, don\u2019t forget to bring the <strong>slip provided by the test center<\/strong> that proves you took the exam\u2014if anything, it\u2019ll serve as a <strong>reminder<\/strong> that the whole experience was <strong>real<\/strong>!)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"I_have_a_disability_Can_the_Prometric_test_center_accommodate_my_needs\"><\/span>I have a disability. Can the Prometric test center accommodate my needs?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, <strong>accommodations<\/strong> can be made for people with <strong>physical and learning disabilities<\/strong>, provided the <strong>applicant provides full documentation<\/strong> regarding the <strong>particularities of their circumstances<\/strong>. You\u2019ll need to <strong>fill out an application form<\/strong> and provide a <strong>personal statement<\/strong> and copies of <strong>professional assessments<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a full list of what you need to do to get started, visit the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.usmle.org\/test-accommodations\/\">USMLE test accommodations page<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"587\" height=\"443\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/06\/Envelope_with_letter.png\" alt=\"An illustration of an envelope with a document inside.\" class=\"wp-image-8578\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.3250824128159158;width:240px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/06\/Envelope_with_letter.png 587w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/06\/Envelope_with_letter.png?resize=300,226 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 587px) 100vw, 587px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-should-I-expect-after-the-exam\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_should_I_expect_after_I_take_USMLE_Step_1\"><\/span>What should I expect after I take USMLE Step 1?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_will_my_Step_1_results_arrive\"><\/span>When will my Step 1 results arrive?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Results<\/strong> are usually available in <strong>3\u20134 weeks<\/strong>, but <strong>delays do occur<\/strong>. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.usmle.org\/pdfs\/bulletin\/QF_Score_and_Score_Reporting.pdf\"><strong>USMLE<\/strong> says to allow<\/a> at least <strong>eight weeks<\/strong> for notification that your <strong>score is available<\/strong>. You can find announcements about any <strong>potential delays <a href=\"https:\/\/www.usmle.org\/announcements\/\">here<\/a><\/strong>. If possible, try to use this <strong>time to relax and recharge<\/strong>. You\u2019ve <strong>earned it<\/strong>, and at this point, you\u2019ve done <strong>everything you can<\/strong>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-if-I-fail-step-1\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Didnt_pass_Whats_next\"><\/span>Didn\u2019t pass? What\u2019s next?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019re allowed up to <strong>four attempts<\/strong> at taking Step 1. If you don\u2019t <strong>pass<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Take a <strong>deep breath<\/strong>; many students <strong>retake successfully<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tell your <strong>advisor<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rework your study approach and timeline<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Focus on <strong>full-length practice exams<\/strong> and <strong>areas where you struggled<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Unfortunately, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.usmle.org\/performance-data\/\">some students do <strong>fail Step 1<\/strong><\/a> (or the other Step exams) each year. It\u2019s not the <strong>best of circumstances<\/strong>\u2014even if you <strong>score high<\/strong> on a <strong>subsequent attempt<\/strong>, the fact that you <strong>failed<\/strong> can <strong>impact your residency applications<\/strong>, as there are far more <strong>applicants than available residency positions<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you <strong>fail Step 1<\/strong>, the first thing you should do is <strong>take a deep breath<\/strong>: this isn\u2019t the <strong>end of your journey<\/strong>, and it\u2019s going to be <strong>okay<\/strong>. Take time to <strong>examine and accept your feelings<\/strong>, and then <strong>look ahead to the future<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Next, tell your <strong>advisor<\/strong>. They will help you come up with a <strong>recovery plan<\/strong>, <strong>delay your clinical rotations<\/strong> if necessary, and arrange a <strong>second attempt<\/strong>. Remember to <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/spreadjoy\">thank your advisors<\/a><\/strong> for their help!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you\u2019re <strong>studying for Step 1 the second time<\/strong>, assess your <strong>previous study strategy<\/strong> and <strong>adapt<\/strong>. Avoid spending too long on any <strong>one subject<\/strong>, and focus on what you <strong>don\u2019t know<\/strong>, rather than topics you\u2019re already <strong>confident in<\/strong>. Use <strong>practice tests<\/strong> to identify your <strong>areas of weakness<\/strong> and double down on them to <strong>build a more well-rounded knowledge base<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/2019\/05\/03\/overcoming-failure-in-medical-school\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u2192&nbsp;Learn more about <strong>Overcoming Failure in Medical School.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Step 1 isn\u2019t the <strong>sole measure<\/strong> of your <strong>worth<\/strong> as a <strong>residency applicant<\/strong> and <strong>future doctor<\/strong>. There are other factors, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Writing a <strong>compelling <a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-write-a-compelling-personal-statement-for-your-med-school-application\">personal statement<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/2020\/03\/10\/how-to-build-an-outstanding-curriculum-vitae-during-medical-school\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Working on an <strong>engaging Curriculum Vitae<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sourcing great <strong>letters of recommendation<\/strong> from your <strong>mentors<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Nailing your medical school interviews<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/unlocking-the-secrets-to-publication-insights-and-tips-for-success-from-editors\">Publishing <strong>research<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Demonstrating strong <strong>academic performance<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/2020\/04\/23\/4-concrete-actions-medical-students-can-take-to-raise-the-line-and-help-fight-covid19\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Showcasing your <strong>work and volunteer experience<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Having a <strong>graduate degree<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"672\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/06\/Jordan-Teel-Testimonial.png?w=1024\" alt=\"&quot;I explored a lot of other resources before ultimately deciding on Osmosis. I like that it is simple, easy to use, and very relevant to medical students. I also live by Picmonic, so the fact that they're integrated is even better! I used Osmosis to study for Step 1, and I'm glad I did because I ended up with a 258! I used it everyday for the customized schedule, which helped keep me on track and spend less time creating a study plan so that I could dedicate more time to learning. I like that the flashcards I create in Osmosis appear right next to the slide that I got the information off of because it helps me to see the bigger picture, and let's me rivew the material associated with the ones I get wrong.&quot; Jordan Teel, Texas A&amp;M University\" class=\"wp-image-8566\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.524628336020061;width:493px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/06\/Jordan-Teel-Testimonial.png 2681w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/06\/Jordan-Teel-Testimonial.png?resize=300,197 300w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/06\/Jordan-Teel-Testimonial.png?resize=768,504 768w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/06\/Jordan-Teel-Testimonial.png?resize=1024,672 1024w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/06\/Jordan-Teel-Testimonial.png?resize=1536,1008 1536w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/06\/Jordan-Teel-Testimonial.png?resize=2048,1344 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-osmosis-helps-you-study\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Osmosis_Helps_You_Study\"><\/span>How Osmosis Helps You Study<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Osmosis<\/strong> gives you a set of tools that help you <strong>study smarter, not longer<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Video lessons<\/strong> that simplify hard topics<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Spaced repetition-powered flashcards<\/strong> improve long-term retention.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Practice quizzes<\/strong> that mimic <strong>Step 1-style questions<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A <strong>flexible study schedule tool<\/strong> to help you <strong>plan and stay on track<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Structured learning plans<\/strong> adapt to your timeline.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can <strong>customize question sets<\/strong> by <strong>topic, difficulty, or past performance<\/strong>. Whether you\u2019re <strong>reviewing a single system<\/strong> or running <strong>full mock exams<\/strong>, <strong>Osmosis fits your pace<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We know <strong>studying for Step 1<\/strong> is one of the <strong>biggest challenges<\/strong> you\u2019ll face as a <strong>medical student<\/strong> because we\u2019ve been there. <strong>Osmosis<\/strong> was founded by <strong>medical students for medical students<\/strong>. It\u2019s designed to take all the <strong>complex information<\/strong> you\u2019re expected to know in <strong>medical school<\/strong> and make it <strong>manageable<\/strong>\u2014not just for <strong>Step 1<\/strong>, but for the <strong>rest of your education<\/strong>, and in your <strong>career<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check out these <strong>success stories<\/strong> from <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/love\">Osmosis learners<\/a><\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignleft size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"1024\" width=\"986\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/06\/Gregory-Wu-Testimonial.png?w=986\" alt=\"&quot;There will be days you will feel like you are chasing your schedule and falling behind and you will question your plan altogether. I am here to tell you to KEEP GOING. It won't be easy, but with the right support, drive and motivation, you can do it! Osmosis carries the burden of taking the steps to set a schedule, you just have to run with it. It is the most amazing feeling to see your NBME scores rise and to come out of the exam knowing you gave it everything you have!&quot; Gregory Wu, Ross University\" class=\"wp-image-8565\" style=\"width:418px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/06\/Gregory-Wu-Testimonial.png 2917w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/06\/Gregory-Wu-Testimonial.png?resize=289,300 289w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/06\/Gregory-Wu-Testimonial.png?resize=768,798 768w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/06\/Gregory-Wu-Testimonial.png?resize=986,1024 986w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/06\/Gregory-Wu-Testimonial.png?resize=1479,1536 1479w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/06\/Gregory-Wu-Testimonial.png?resize=1972,2048 1972w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 986px) 100vw, 986px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_the_Osmosis_Learning_Loop\"><\/span>Use the Osmosis Learning Loop<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Studying for USMLE Step 1 with Osmosis<\/strong> allows you to <strong>harness the power of multimedia learning<\/strong> to <strong>gain knowledge<\/strong> that will <strong>stick<\/strong> with you <strong>long after<\/strong> you\u2019ve taken the exam. Make the most of it using these <strong>resources<\/strong> and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/unlocking-the-secrets-of-osmosis-org-an-in-depth-look\">practice the Osmosis Learning Loop<\/a><\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Watch a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/library\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">video<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Go through the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/flashcards\/step1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">flashcards<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Test yourself with&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/qbank\/step1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">practice questions<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Review with&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/library\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">High-Yield Notes<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"ace-step-1-with-osmosis\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ace_USMLE%C2%AE_Step_1_and_Beyond_with_Osmosis_Resources\"><\/span>Ace USMLE\u00ae Step 1 and Beyond with Osmosis Resources<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Osmosis gathers all the resources<\/strong> you need to <strong>stay organized<\/strong> and <strong>study more efficiently<\/strong> for <strong>USMLE\u00ae Step 1 and Step 2 CK<\/strong> in one place. Get access to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/2020\/06\/30\/studying-smarter-with-osmosis-the-best-videos-for-medical-school-review\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">1,600+ Osmosis USMLE\u00ae videos<\/a>&nbsp;offering comprehensive coverage of pathology, physiology, pharmacology, and anatomy, as well as High-Yield Pathology videos for dedicated Step 1 prep<\/strong>, simplifies key exam concepts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/2019\/11\/13\/how-to-use-usmle-question-banks-efficiently-on-osmosis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>4,700+ USMLE-style case question<\/strong><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-use-osmosis-quizzes-to-prep-for-usmle-step-1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>s<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/medical-terminology-flashcards-on-osmosis-what-you-need-to-know\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>16,000+ USMLE-style flashcards<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dedicated&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-use-the-new-osmosis-study-schedule-tool\">USMLE Step 1 Study Schedule<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/product\/high-yield-notes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>High-Yield Pathology &amp; Physiology Notes<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And so much more!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Osmosis also aligns<\/strong> with your favorite <strong>USMLE\u00ae resources<\/strong> and <strong>study tools<\/strong>, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Anki <\/strong>decks with Osmosis tags<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>NBME practice exams<\/strong> to simulate the real deal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>As well as supplementing the strengths of other learning tools like UWorld and First Aid.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Final_Thoughts\"><\/span>Final Thoughts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>USMLE Step 1 exam<\/strong> is a <strong>tough challenge<\/strong>, but with the <strong>right plan<\/strong> and <strong>support tools<\/strong>, it\u2019s <strong>absolutely doable<\/strong>. You\u2019ve already <strong>learned the material<\/strong>; it\u2019s just about <strong>organizing, reviewing, and staying confident<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s what to keep in mind:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Step 1 tests how well you understand and apply the basics of medicine<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The USMLE Step 1 test format and structure<\/strong> <strong>is long but manageable with prep<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Osmosis gives you a clear study structure and supports better retention<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Takeaways\"><\/span>Key Takeaways<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>USMLE Step 1 is a pass\/fail exam that assesses how well you understand and apply the basic sciences of medicine.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The exam consists of 7 blocks over 8 hours, covering subjects like pathology, pharmacology, physiology, and microbiology.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Most students spend 3\u20136 months preparing, with an average of 5\u20138 weeks of dedicated study time.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The best Step 1 study strategies include active recall, spaced repetition, and multimedia learning.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Osmosis integrates all these tools into one platform with videos, flashcards, practice questions, and a customizable study schedule.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Healthy habits, including exercise, sleep, and regular breaks, help reduce burnout and improve retention.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>On exam day, plan for breaks, hydration, and nutrition, and bring only approved materials to your Prometric test center.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If you don\u2019t pass, you can retake Step 1 up to four times and rework your study approach for success.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/create\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/02\/Blog_Display_Ads_GENERAL2_2023.png?w=700\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5441\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/02\/Blog_Display_Ads_GENERAL2_2023.png 700w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/02\/Blog_Display_Ads_GENERAL2_2023.png?resize=300,107 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE\u00ae) is a joint program of the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB\u00ae) and National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME\u00ae). Osmosis is not affiliated with NBME nor FSMB.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Explore <strong>thousands of USMLE videos and practice questions<\/strong> with a <strong><a href=\"http:\/\/osmosis.org\/create\">free trial<\/a><\/strong> today and create a <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/schedule\">personalized study schedule<\/a><\/strong> to make your learning stick.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Prep for USMLE\u00ae Step 1 with Osmosis! Get key exam tips and study strategies to help you succeed on your medical journey. Start strong and boost your confidence today!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":203,"featured_media":376,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[27,20,21,24,16,47,44],"tags":[468,150,187,265,84,308,462,67,571,185],"class_list":["post-357","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-medicine","category-exam-prep","category-guides","category-imgs","category-do","category-study-tips-and-techniques","category-step-1","tag-active-learning","tag-clinical-practice","tag-exam-preparation","tag-healthcare-training","tag-medical-education","tag-medical-students","tag-osmosis","tag-study-techniques","tag-test-preparation","tag-usmle"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v23.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>The Ultimate Guide to USMLE\u00ae Step 1 : What Every Med Student Needs to Know - Osmosis Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"The Ultimate Guide to USMLE\u00ae Step 1 : What Every Med Student Needs to Know - Osmosis Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Prep for USMLE\u00ae Step 1 with Osmosis! Get key exam tips and study strategies to help you succeed on your medical journey. Start strong and boost your confidence today!\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Osmosis Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-06-11T14:00:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-05-29T19:19:55+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/the-osmosis-ultimate-guide.webp\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1080\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1080\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/webp\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Marina Horiates Kerekes, MD\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":[\"Article\",\"BlogPosting\"],\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Marina Horiates Kerekes, MD\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/d9be30b361efd3344eb73f99e92e5a3b\"},\"headline\":\"The Ultimate Guide to USMLE\u00ae Step 1 : What Every Med Student Needs to Know\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-06-11T14:00:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-29T19:19:55+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\"},\"wordCount\":5924,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/the-osmosis-ultimate-guide.webp\",\"keywords\":[\"active learning\",\"clinical practice\",\"exam preparation\",\"healthcare training\",\"medical education\",\"medical students\",\"Osmosis\",\"study techniques\",\"test preparation\",\"USMLE\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Allopathic Medicine (MD)\",\"Exam Prep\",\"Guides\",\"International Medical Graduates (IMG)\",\"Osteopathic Medicine (DO)\",\"Study Tips &amp; Techniques\",\"USMLE\u00ae Step 1\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\",\"name\":\"The Ultimate Guide to USMLE\u00ae Step 1 : What Every Med Student Needs to Know - Osmosis Blog\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/the-osmosis-ultimate-guide.webp\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-06-11T14:00:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-29T19:19:55+00:00\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/the-osmosis-ultimate-guide.webp\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/the-osmosis-ultimate-guide.webp\",\"width\":1080,\"height\":1080,\"caption\":\"All Your USMLE Step 1 Questions Answered The Osmosis Ultimate Guide\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"The Ultimate Guide to USMLE\u00ae Step 1 : What Every Med Student Needs to Know\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/\",\"name\":\"Osmosis Blog\",\"description\":\"\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Osmosis Blog\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/07\/OsmosisElsevierStacked.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/07\/OsmosisElsevierStacked.png\",\"width\":1276,\"height\":596,\"caption\":\"Osmosis Blog\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\"}},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/d9be30b361efd3344eb73f99e92e5a3b\",\"name\":\"Marina Horiates Kerekes, MD\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/dc3c71f7fae39f87ab36c9fa8e12940c0a4502a43569349ea59fbca292f016bd?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/dc3c71f7fae39f87ab36c9fa8e12940c0a4502a43569349ea59fbca292f016bd?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"Marina Horiates Kerekes, MD\"},\"description\":\"Author Marina Horiates Kerekes, MD, Director of Medical Assessment, Osmosis from Elsevier\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/author\/marinahoriateskerekes\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"The Ultimate Guide to USMLE\u00ae Step 1 : What Every Med Student Needs to Know - Osmosis Blog","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"The Ultimate Guide to USMLE\u00ae Step 1 : What Every Med Student Needs to Know - Osmosis Blog","og_description":"Prep for USMLE\u00ae Step 1 with Osmosis! Get key exam tips and study strategies to help you succeed on your medical journey. Start strong and boost your confidence today!","og_url":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide","og_site_name":"Osmosis Blog","article_published_time":"2025-06-11T14:00:00+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-05-29T19:19:55+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1080,"height":1080,"url":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/the-osmosis-ultimate-guide.webp","type":"image\/webp"}],"author":"Marina Horiates Kerekes, MD","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":["Article","BlogPosting"],"@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide"},"author":{"name":"Marina Horiates Kerekes, MD","@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/d9be30b361efd3344eb73f99e92e5a3b"},"headline":"The Ultimate Guide to USMLE\u00ae Step 1 : What Every Med Student Needs to Know","datePublished":"2025-06-11T14:00:00+00:00","dateModified":"2026-05-29T19:19:55+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide"},"wordCount":5924,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/the-osmosis-ultimate-guide.webp","keywords":["active learning","clinical practice","exam preparation","healthcare training","medical education","medical students","Osmosis","study techniques","test preparation","USMLE"],"articleSection":["Allopathic Medicine (MD)","Exam Prep","Guides","International Medical Graduates (IMG)","Osteopathic Medicine (DO)","Study Tips &amp; Techniques","USMLE\u00ae Step 1"],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide#respond"]}]},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide","url":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide","name":"The Ultimate Guide to USMLE\u00ae Step 1 : What Every Med Student Needs to Know - Osmosis Blog","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/the-osmosis-ultimate-guide.webp","datePublished":"2025-06-11T14:00:00+00:00","dateModified":"2026-05-29T19:19:55+00:00","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/the-osmosis-ultimate-guide.webp","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/the-osmosis-ultimate-guide.webp","width":1080,"height":1080,"caption":"All Your USMLE Step 1 Questions Answered The Osmosis Ultimate Guide"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/all-your-usmle-step-1-questions-answered-the-osmosis-ultimate-guide#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"The Ultimate Guide to USMLE\u00ae Step 1 : What Every Med Student Needs to Know"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/","name":"Osmosis Blog","description":"","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#organization","name":"Osmosis Blog","url":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/07\/OsmosisElsevierStacked.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/07\/OsmosisElsevierStacked.png","width":1276,"height":596,"caption":"Osmosis Blog"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"}},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/d9be30b361efd3344eb73f99e92e5a3b","name":"Marina Horiates Kerekes, MD","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/dc3c71f7fae39f87ab36c9fa8e12940c0a4502a43569349ea59fbca292f016bd?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/dc3c71f7fae39f87ab36c9fa8e12940c0a4502a43569349ea59fbca292f016bd?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"Marina Horiates Kerekes, MD"},"description":"Author Marina Horiates Kerekes, MD, Director of Medical Assessment, Osmosis from Elsevier","url":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/author\/marinahoriateskerekes"}]}},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/the-osmosis-ultimate-guide.webp","jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":436,"url":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/usmle-step-1-exam-dates-a-guide-for-international-medical-students","url_meta":{"origin":357,"position":0},"title":"USMLE\u00ae Step 1 Exam: A Guide for International Medical Students","author":"Steph Stevens","date":"March 16, 2023","format":false,"excerpt":"Learn how international medical graduates (IMGs) can prepare for and succeed on the USMLE\u00ae Step 1 Exam.","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Allopathic Medicine (MD)&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Allopathic Medicine (MD)","link":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/category\/medicine"},"img":{"alt_text":"USMLE Step 1 Exam Dates in 2024 A Guide for international medical students","src":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/9.webp","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/9.webp 1x, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/9.webp 1.5x, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/9.webp 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":7856,"url":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/the-breakdown-of-usmle-step-1-what-you-need-to-know","url_meta":{"origin":357,"position":1},"title":"The Breakdown of USMLE\u00ae Step 1: What You Need to Know","author":"Steph Stevens","date":"September 5, 2025","format":false,"excerpt":"Prepare for USMLE Step 1 with a breakdown of exam content, format, and proven study techniques to boost confidence and performance.","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Allopathic Medicine (MD)&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Allopathic Medicine (MD)","link":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/category\/medicine"},"img":{"alt_text":"The Breakdown of USMLE Step 1 What You Need to Know","src":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/09\/The_Breakdown_of_USMLE_Step_1_What_You_Need_to_Know.png","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/09\/The_Breakdown_of_USMLE_Step_1_What_You_Need_to_Know.png 1x, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/09\/The_Breakdown_of_USMLE_Step_1_What_You_Need_to_Know.png 1.5x, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/09\/The_Breakdown_of_USMLE_Step_1_What_You_Need_to_Know.png 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":4251,"url":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/the-ultimate-list-of-osmosis-from-elsevier-study-tips","url_meta":{"origin":357,"position":2},"title":"The Ultimate List of Osmosis from Elsevier Study Tips","author":"Steph Stevens","date":"September 23, 2024","format":false,"excerpt":"Discover curated study tips and proven learning techniques designed to boost success for medical, nursing, and healthcare students throughout their academic and clinical journeys.","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Exam Prep&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Exam Prep","link":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/category\/exam-prep"},"img":{"alt_text":"The Ultimate List of Osmosis from Elsevier Study Tips","src":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/study-tips-from-elsevier.webp","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/study-tips-from-elsevier.webp 1x, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/study-tips-from-elsevier.webp 1.5x, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/study-tips-from-elsevier.webp 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":344,"url":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/the-usmle-step-1-is-pass-fail-what-it-means-for-medical-students","url_meta":{"origin":357,"position":3},"title":"The USMLE Step 1 Is Pass-Fail: What It Means for Medical Students","author":"Steph Stevens","date":"February 16, 2023","format":false,"excerpt":"As of January 2022, the USMLE Step 1 Exam shifted from being scored to a simple pass\/fail grading structure. Learn more about the potential effects of the shift, including the benefits, challenges, and potential changes to the medical residency matching process.\u00a0 The road to becoming a physician is different for\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Allopathic Medicine (MD)&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Allopathic Medicine (MD)","link":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/category\/medicine"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/what-this-means-for-medical-students.webp","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/what-this-means-for-medical-students.webp 1x, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/what-this-means-for-medical-students.webp 1.5x, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/08\/what-this-means-for-medical-students.webp 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":8695,"url":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/what-usmle-step-1-score-do-you-need-to-match","url_meta":{"origin":357,"position":4},"title":"What USMLE Step 1 Score Do You Need to Match?","author":"Steph Stevens","date":"October 21, 2025","format":false,"excerpt":"Now that Step 1 is pass\/fail, a \u201cgood\u201d score means confidently passing and mastering core concepts to excel in clerkships and when taking Step 2 CK. Learn how to assess your readiness.","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Allopathic Medicine (MD)&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Allopathic Medicine (MD)","link":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/category\/medicine"},"img":{"alt_text":"What USMLE Step 1 Score Do You Need To Match?","src":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/What_USMLE_Step1_Score_Do_You_Need_to_Match.png","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/What_USMLE_Step1_Score_Do_You_Need_to_Match.png 1x, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/What_USMLE_Step1_Score_Do_You_Need_to_Match.png 1.5x, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/What_USMLE_Step1_Score_Do_You_Need_to_Match.png 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":2870,"url":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/usmle-step-2-cs-and-comlex-usa-level-2-pe-canceled-what-this-means-for-us-medical-students-imgs-and-institutions","url_meta":{"origin":357,"position":5},"title":"USMLE\u00ae Step 2 CS and COMLEX-USA\u00ae Level 2-PE Canceled: What This Means For US Medical Students, IMGs, and Institutions","author":"Fergus Baird, MA","date":"March 2, 2021","format":false,"excerpt":"Some medical students are breathing a sigh of relief that they have one less exam to study for: the United States Medical Licensing Examination\u00ae (USMLE\u00ae) Step 2 Clinical Skills (CS) exam. The USMLE Step 2 CS canceled news comes about eight months after the exam was initially suspended amidst the\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Allopathic Medicine (MD)&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Allopathic Medicine (MD)","link":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/category\/medicine"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/usmle-step-2-cs-and-comlexusa-level-2pe-canceled-what-this-means-for-us-medical-students-imgs-and-institutions.webp","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/usmle-step-2-cs-and-comlexusa-level-2pe-canceled-what-this-means-for-us-medical-students-imgs-and-institutions.webp 1x, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/usmle-step-2-cs-and-comlexusa-level-2pe-canceled-what-this-means-for-us-medical-students-imgs-and-institutions.webp 1.5x, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/usmle-step-2-cs-and-comlexusa-level-2pe-canceled-what-this-means-for-us-medical-students-imgs-and-institutions.webp 2x"},"classes":[]}],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/357","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/203"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=357"}],"version-history":[{"count":29,"href":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/357\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":10246,"href":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/357\/revisions\/10246"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/376"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=357"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=357"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=357"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}