Whether you’re a first-time test-taker or a seasoned pro, knowing the ins and outs of the USMLE Step 1 exam is crucial for your preparation. This article will provide answers to your most pressing questions about Step 1 exam dates in 2025, so you can make the best possible decision about when to take your exam.
We’ll cover everything from eligibility requirements to exam registration fees, and also guide you through what to do if you need to change your test date. Whether you’re just starting your studies or are counting down the days until test day, read on for all the information you need about the USMLE Step 1 exam dates in 2025!
Eligibility to Take Step 1?
Are you wondering if you are eligible to take the USMLE Step 1 exam? Wonder no more! The eligibility requirements are listed below for your convenience.
In order to be eligible to take the Step 1 exam, you must meet all of the following requirements:
- You must be a U.S. or Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or have met the requirements to be an international student.
- You must have completed a course in a U.S. or Canadian medical school that is deemed equivalent to the first year of a U.S. or Canadian medical school curriculum.
- You must have completed at least one year of clinical training in a U.S. or Canadian hospital or institution accredited by the ACGME or LCME (this clinical training must be completed by the time you take Step 1).
How to Register for Step 1?
You can register for the Step 1 exam by visiting the USMLE website. You will need to create an account on the website and provide some basic information.
Once you have created your account, you can register for the exam by clicking on ” Register for a Test.” You will then be prompted to provide information about your test center, test date, and payment information.
You can also register for the Step 1 exam by completing the paper registration form and mailing it to the USMLE Secretariat. The address is included on the form.
You should register for the Step 1 exam as far in advance as possible, as space is limited at test centers, and availability is on a first-come, first-served basis.
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How Far in Advance Can I Schedule My Step 1 Exam?
Planning ahead is key when it comes to the USMLE Step 1 exam, and you can schedule your exam up to six months in advance. This means that if you’re planning on taking the exam in 2025, you can register for a date before the end of 2024! To do so, all you need to do is go online and key in your information. Once you’ve registered, you’ll be able to access your personalized timeline and keep track of important dates, such as when your application was received or when your results will be released. Keeping these dates (especially the exam date!) in mind will help ensure you have plenty of time to prepare.
How Much Does It Cost to Register for Step 1?
One of the most common questions is: How much does the USMLE Step 1 exam cost?
In 2025, the USMLE Step 1 registration fee is $1,295 USD. However, costs may vary depending on your location and the test center. For international test-takers, an additional international test delivery surcharge may apply.
Tip: Don’t worry if the registration fee is a concern—there are often resources available to help with costs. For example, you may qualify for a discounted fee or a fee waiver if you meet certain criteria. Be sure to check with your medical school or the NBME website for more information on available fee assistance programs.
How Can I Change My Step 1 Exam Date?
Sometimes, you may need to change your Step 1 exam date. You can do so if needed, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
- You may request a date change up to 30 days before your scheduled exam.
- Contact the USMLE Step 1 testing center to request a change. Be sure to provide any required documentation to support your request.
- Fees: Some testing centers may charge an additional fee for rescheduling, depending on the time frame and availability of alternative dates.
Check with the testing center for specific rescheduling policies, as fees and availability may vary.
When Will I Get My Step 1 Results
Now, you’re probably wondering when you’ll get your Step 1 results. Once the exam is over, your scores will be reported to the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) and available to you within four weeks. If you’ve taken your exam during the pandemic, NBME officials are working to speed up the process, so your results may arrive sooner than usual.
NBME will then send an official notification to whatever medical schools and residency programs you have registered with. In most cases, they will be able to view your scores within two days of NBME obtaining them. Be aware that it can take up to five business days for programs to officially receive scores in their systems, depending on their location.
It’s important to remember that even though you’ll get your results right away, you won’t be able to find out what score you got until after all medical schools have received it. So don’t start celebrating—or worrying—until all of the scores have been sent out!
Conclusion
The USMLE Step 1 is one of the most important exams a medical student will ever take. It is the first step in becoming a licensed physician, and it is essential to prepare for the exam well.
The best way to prepare for the exam is to study hard and get plenty of practice questions. It is also important to stay calm and focused during the exam. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to speak with your mentor or instructor. Please take advantage of our QBank at CanadaQBank.
USMLE Step 1 Good luck with your USMLE Step 1 exam!
FAQs about USMLE Step 1
Let’s answer some of the most commonly asked questions regarding the USMLE Step 1 exam in 2025!
When can I take the USMLE Step 1 exam?
You can take the USMLE Step 1 exam any time between January and December 2025.
Who is eligible to take Step 1?
Any medical student who has completed the first two years of medical school is eligible to take the USMLE Step 1.
How do I register for Step 1?
To register for the USMLE Step 1, you must create an account on the official USMLE website, provide proof of eligibility, and complete a registration form. You will then be prompted to pay a registration fee and schedule your desired exam date.
How far in advance can I schedule my Step 1 exam?
You can schedule your Step 1 exam up to six months in advance.
How much does it cost to register for Step 1?
The cost to register for the USMLE Step 1 exam is $1,295 USD in 2025.
How can I change my Step 1 exam date?
You may change your scheduled exam date up to two times without incurring additional fees.
When will I get my results?
Your Step 1 results will typically be available within four weeks of the exam date.