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All About the USMLE Step 1 Subjects

Contents

Every aspiring physician must have heard about the USMLE Step 1 Exam, the first phase of the three-tier licensing exams required to practice medicine in the USA. This exam can be taken after the second year of medical school. The USMLE Step 1 subjects are vast making the preparation extremely comprehensive and challenging. 

What is USMLE Step 1?

The USMLE (United States Medical Licensure Exam) consists of Step 1, Step 2, and Step 3, but as mentioned earlier, Step 1 can be taken after the second year of medical school.  USMLE Step 1 is designed to test a med student’s scientific knowledge and ability to apply that knowledge to real-time medical situations. 

USMLE Step 1 taken after the second year of medical school covers the necessary coursework of USMLE Step 1 subjects that are required to pass the exam. So, taking this exam before clinical clerkships will help an aspirant to work directly with patients in clinical and hospital settings.

Who Takes the USMLE Step 1?

To be eligible to take the USMLE Step 1 exam, a medical aspirant should fulfill these categories at the time of applying for Step 1 and on the day of testing:

  • A medical student should have enrolled officially in or should be a graduate of, a Canadian or U.S.  medical school program leading to the MD degree and is accredited by the LCME (Liaison Committee on Medical Education)
  • A medical student should have enrolled officially in or should be a graduate of, a U.S. medical school leading to the DO degree and is accredited by AOA (American Osteopathic Association)
  • A medical student should have enrolled or should have graduated from a medical school listed in the WDOMS (World Directory of Medical Schools), outside Canada and the US. Such a school should meet the requirements and criteria of ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates).
usmle step 1 subjects | USMLE Strike

Exam Format

The USMLE Step 1 subjects are tough. So, prepare for this computer-based test that is administered in a single day for over 8 hours. The USMLE Step 1 exam comprises multiple-choice questions divided into 7 sections. The total paper may have up to 280 with about 40 questions in each section. 

For each section, it takes about a duration of 1 hour and aspirants are allowed 45 minutes for personal breaks between sections. This phase of the exam also consists of an optional 15-minute tutorial period before attempting the first section.

USMLE Step 1 Subjects & Topics

The USMLE Step 1 exam covers the fundamental scientific principles in the following USMLE Step 1 subjects and Topics :

Most questions asked in the USMLE Step 1 are application-based. For instance, an aspirant might have to understand the USMLE Step 1 subjects to identify the pictures of pathological specimens and interpret graphs or statistical data to justify the actions in fictional scenarios.

USMLE Step 1 syllabus

Before embarking on your preparation journey, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the USMLE Step 1 syllabus. For Indian students, this syllabus comprises 18 core topics, covering essential concepts and principles concerning organ systems and specific organs. To study these subjects, you can utilize resources like the USMLE Step 1 book. The syllabus delineates 8 separate fields and 5 areas that integrate multiple disciplines. Refer to the table below for a comprehensive overview of the USMLE Exam syllabus:

FieldDescription
AnatomyStudy of bodily structure and its clinical significance
PhysiologyUnderstanding normal bodily functions
BiochemistryPrinciples of molecular biology and metabolism
PharmacologyKnowledge of drug mechanisms and clinical applications
MicrobiologyStudy of microorganisms and infectious diseases
ImmunologyUnderstanding the immune system and its response
PathologyKnowledge of disease processes and manifestations
Behavioral ScienceConcepts related to human behavior and psychology
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How to Apply/ Register for the USMLE Step 1?

If you are a med student from Canada or the USA, you must apply for the exam with the NBME (National Board of Medical Examiners) and obtain a valid USMLE ID by filling out the form.

If you are an international student, you must register with the ECFMG, and your school authorities will help you register for USMLE Step 1 where the test can be taken at any point of the year.

Besides knowing the details of the USMLE Step 1 subjects prior to preparation, you need to do the following steps to register for the Step 1 exam.

  • Create your account on the ECFMG website.
  • Fill the USMLE Step 1 application form
  • Fill Form 183 and send it via mail to Philadelphia.
  • Wait for your scheduling permit
  • Book your exam date at a Prometric Centre

How to Succeed in the USMLE Step 1?

USMLE Step 1 can be conquered with strong discipline, the right attitude, and solid prep support. Doing your best requires forethought and preparation. This USMLE Step 1 preparation must be on several levels like 

  • Analysing the question types along with the overall structure of the exam itself.
  • Organizing the study time efficiently to get the most out of it.
  • Knowing how to apply the concepts in hypothetical situations.
  • Preparing both mentally and physically. 

Best resources for USMLE Step 1

For optimal USMLE Step 1 preparation, accessing effective resources is paramount. Several key tools contribute to a solid foundation:

  • Leverage Moksh’s live lectures and Ask Me Anything (AMA) sessions for comprehensive insights.
  • Utilize the Learning Management System MOKSH, incorporating study notes and assessments.
  • Tackle UWorld questions systematically in blocks of 40, mirroring exam conditions.
  • Reference the invaluable First Aid guide, condensing essential information for quick review.
  • Personalize your learning by creating flashcards and concise revision notes.

By incorporating these Best USMLE resources, candidates can ensure a well-rounded and effective preparation strategy for success in the challenging USMLE Step 1 examination.

Conclusion

To sum up, a USMLE aspirant must know the syllabus, and exam pattern, and master the material tested. This will be helpful to handle all types of questions with confidence besides making a rigorous USMLE Step 1 preparation by taking the classes at the best USMLE coaching institute like the USMLE Strike.

Read Also: Revision Notes for the USMLE Step 1 Exam

Frequently Asked Questions

Four months can be sufficient with focused study. Tailor your plan to your strengths. Use resources like USMLE Strike for targeted preparation on key subjects like Biochemistry and Pharmacology, ensuring a comprehensive approach within the timeframe.
Step 1 is challenging but manageable with thorough preparation. Leverage resources such as USMLE Strike for a structured study plan. Success depends on consistent effort and a deep understanding of USMLE Step 1 subjects.
MBBS isn’t mandatory; however, a medical degree equivalent to the US system is required. Confirm your eligibility. Focus on key USMLE Step 1 subjects, including Pathology, Immunology, and Anatomy, irrespective of your medical degree’s title. Utilize resources like USMLE Strike for targeted preparation.
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