What is the USMLE?
The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE ) is a series of examinations that are necessary to start your residency and practice medicine in the U.S.
The first exam is called Step 1, and it evaluates your knowledge of the basics of medical science. The scope of the syllabus for Step 1 encompasses the material covered during the first three years of medical school in Greece.
USMLE and Medical Specialization in America! ft. Panagiotis Kaparaliotis
Do you want to learn what the USMLE is and how one starts a medical residency in the United States? If so, you are in the right place! Dr. Panagiotis Kaparaliotis, a graduate of the Medical School of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, author of the book USMLE First Aid, and a Pathology resident at Emory University School of Medicine, explains the process, what aspiring doctors should pay attention to, and how to successfully pass the USMLE Steps!
Unlocking the secrets of the USMLE
The USMLE is composed of three exams (Steps 1,2, and 3) with multiple choice questions. Greek medical school graduates fall into the IMG (International Medical Graduate) category. Consequently, to obtain the right to practice medicine in the U.S., they need to be certified by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG).
Practical Info
Exam
The USMLE Step 1 takes place exclusively online. It comprises 280 multiple choice questions.
Grading system
The USMLE is a pass or fail examination. In order to pass, 60% of the questions need to be answered correctly.
Exam duration
The exam lasts 8 hours.
Validity
The USMLE Step 1 is valid for 7 years, until the attainment of the ECFMG certification. Thereafter, there is no expiration of the results.
Test centers
There is one test center in Athens.
Exam cost
The cost of the examination is €1,150.
USMLE Mentors
Dr. Maria Michailidou
General surgeon specialized
in colorectal surgery
- UPatras School of Medicine
- University of Arizona