How to Register for USMLE Step 1 Exam: A Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

Are you an international medical student or graduate planning to take the USMLE Step 1? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the registration process, eligibility criteria, and essential preparation tips to help you succeed.

Table of Contents

1. What is the USMLE Step 1 Exam?

2. Eligibility Criteria for USMLE Step 1

3. Step-by-Step Registration Guide

4. Required Documents for Registration

5. Scheduling Your USMLE Step 1 Exam

6. Best Resources for USMLE Step 1 Preparation

7. FAQs on USMLE Step 1 Registration & Preparation

8. Final Tips for Success

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1. What is the USMLE Step 1 Exam?

The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1 is a critical exam for medical students and graduates seeking to practice medicine in the U.S. It tests foundational medical knowledge in:

• Anatomy

• Biochemistry

• Pathology

• Pharmacology

• Microbiology

• Behavioral Sciences

Since 2022, USMLE Step 1 has been Pass/Fail, but a strong performance is still crucial for residency applications.

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2. Eligibility Criteria for USMLE Step 1

To register for USMLE Step 1, you must meet these requirements:

✅ Medical Student Status:

• You must be enrolled in or a graduate of a medical school listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS).

• Third-year MBBS students and above are eligible.

✅ ECFMG Certification:

• International students must obtain an ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates) number.

✅ Valid Identification:

• Your name on the application must exactly match your passport.

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3. Step-by-Step Registration Guide

Step 1: Obtain Your ECFMG Number

1. Visit the ECFMG Website.

2. Scroll down and click on "IWA" (Interactive Web Applications).

3. If you’re new, select "Never Been Issued an ECFMG ID Number".

4. Fill in your personal details (name, date of birth, medical school).

5. Submit the application.

📌 You’ll receive an email with your ECFMG number.

Step 2: Log in to ECFMG’s IWA Portal

1. Return to ECFMG IWA.

2. Enter your ECFMG number and create a password.

3. Log in and complete your profile (ensure name matches passport).

Step 3: Submit Form 186 (Notarized Certification)

1. Download Form 186 from the portal.

2. Schedule a notarization appointment (ECFMG requires identity verification).

3. Submit the form via the portal.

Step 4: Apply for USMLE Step 1

1. Once ECFMG verifies your credentials, apply for Step 1 via IWA.

2. Pay the exam fee (~$1,000 for international students).

3. Receive your eligibility period (typically 3 months).

Step 5: Schedule Your Exam at a Prometric Center

1. Log in to the NBME or ECFMG scheduling system.

2. Choose a Prometric test center near you.

3. Select your preferred exam date.

🎉 Your registration is complete!

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4. Required Documents for Registration

• Passport (must be valid)

• Medical school credentials (transcripts, diploma if applicable)

• ECFMG Form 186 (notarized)

• Payment method (credit/debit card)

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5. Best Resources for USMLE Step 1 Preparation

1. First Aid for USMLE Step 1 (Buy Here)

• The Bible of Step 1 prep—covers all high-yield topics.

2. UWorld Question Bank (Official Site)

• Gold standard for practice questions with detailed explanations.

3. Pathoma (Get Access)

• Best for Pathology (Dr. Sattar’s lectures are a must-watch).

4. Sketchy Medical (Micro & Pharm) (Visit Here)

• Visual mnemonics for memorizing drugs and microbes.

5. Recalls & Past Papers (High-Yield!)

• Recent exam recalls help identify repeating patterns.

  • 👉 Get Our Premium USMLE Step 1 Package Here

6. NBME Self-Assessments

• Take NBME practice tests to gauge readiness (aim for 65%+ to pass).

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6. FAQs on USMLE Step 1 Registration & Preparation

❓ Can I take USMLE Step 1 as a 2nd-year MBBS student?

➡ No, you must be at least in your 3rd year (or a graduate).

❓ How long does ECFMG verification take?

➡ Typically 2-4 weeks, but delays can occur—apply early!

❓ Can I change my exam date after scheduling?

➡ Yes, but Prometric charges a rescheduling fee.

❓ Is USMLE Step 1 still Pass/Fail in 2024?

➡ Yes, but residency programs still consider your score indirectly.

❓ Are recalls (past questions) ethical to use?

➡ Yes, but use them wisely—focus on concepts rather than memorization.

❓ How many months are needed to prepare for Step 1?

➡ 6-9 months (full-time) or 10-12 months (alongside med school).

❓ What’s the passing score for USMLE Step 1?

➡ 194 (since it’s Pass/Fail, no numerical score is reported).

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7. Final Tips for Success

✔ Start early—Step 1 requires deep understanding, not just memorization.
✔ Do UWorld twice—first pass for learning, second pass for review.
✔ Take NBMEs seriously—if scoring 65%+, you’re on track.
✔ Use recalls strategically—identify high-yield repeating concepts.
✔ Stay consistent—dedicate 6-8 hours daily if studying full-time.

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🚀 Ready to Ace USMLE Step 1?

Follow this guide, use the best resources, and stay disciplined. Your dream U.S. residency starts with Step 1!

📌 Need high-yield recalls & past papers?
👉 Get Our Premium USMLE Step 1 Package Here

Good luck, future doctors! 🩺📚