USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam
USMLE Step 1 assesses mastery of basic science concepts essential for safe medical practice in a one‑day, computer‑based exam.
- Exam fee
- $645
- Duration
- one day (8‑hour testing session)
- Typical salary
- $200K–$350K (post-residency)
Step 1 is essential for medical students who need a solid, board‑certified foundation before entering clinical rotations. If you’re not pursuing a U.S. medical license, another credential may be more appropriate.
What USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam covers
Issued by USMLE (usmle.org) / NBME. The first step in becoming a licensed physician in the United States. Tests basic science knowledge essential for safe medical practice.
Key topics covered: Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Immunology, Behavioral Science.
Best suited for: Medical students completing the pre-clinical years of an MD or DO program.
Common career paths: Physician, Medical Resident, Surgeon, Specialist Doctor.
USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam exam details
Exam domains
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Biochemistry
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Behavioral Science
At a glance
- Exam fee
- $645
- Duration
- one day (8‑hour testing session)
How to prepare for USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam
| Stage | What to do | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Familiarize with the official outline Read the Step 1 content outline and understand how basic science material is organized by system and process. | Week 1 |
| 2 | Build core knowledge Study the foundational sciences—anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, pharmacology, microbiology, immunology, and behavioral science—using reputable resources. | Weeks 2‑4 |
| 3 | Integrate and apply concepts Practice case‑based questions that require you to link mechanisms to clinical scenarios, mirroring the exam’s emphasis on application. | Weeks 5‑6 |
| 4 | Timed practice exams Complete full‑length practice blocks under exam‑like timing to build stamina for the seven 60‑minute blocks (or fourteen 30‑minute blocks) and refine test‑taking strategies. | Weeks 7‑8 |
| 5 | Review and fine‑tune Identify weak areas from practice results, review high‑yield topics, and ensure you’re comfortable with the break and tutorial options. | Final week |
Jobs and salary with USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam
People holding this certification commonly report pay around $200K–$350K (post-residency). Pay depends heavily on role, location and total experience. See the salary breakdown.
Roles this certification supports
USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam questions answered
What is the USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam certification?
USMLE Step 1 assesses mastery of basic science concepts essential for safe medical practice in a one‑day, computer‑based exam. It is issued by USMLE / NBME and sits in the Medical field.
Is USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam hard?
USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam is rated Advanced. It usually assumes several years of hands-on work, so most candidates prepare for longer.
How much does the USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam exam cost?
The listed exam fee is $645. Fees vary by country and change over time, so confirm the current price with USMLE / NBME before you book.
How long is the USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam exam?
The exam runs for one day (8‑hour testing session).
What salary can I expect with USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam?
Professionals with USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam commonly report pay in the $200K–$350K (post-residency) range. Actual pay depends on role, location and total experience.
How should I prepare for USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam?
Start with the official exam outline, build hands-on practice for each domain, then finish with timed practice questions. The study plan on this page breaks this into steps.
Alternatives to USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam
| Certification | Vendor | Level |
|---|---|---|
| PANCE – Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam | NCCPA | Advanced |
| NCLEX-RN – National Council Licensure Exam (Nursing) | NCSBN | Advanced |
| RDMS – Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | ARDMS | Intermediate |
| CPC – Certified Professional Coder | AAPC | Intermediate |