Failed Step 1 or Step 2? These specialties put less weight on exams

There is a pathway to a successful Match after a first-attempt failure on USMLE Step 1 or 2. Learn more with the AMA.

By
Brendan Murphy Senior News Writer
| 6 Min Read

A failing score on your first attempt at Step 1 or Step 2 of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) doesn’t mean you will not be a physician, but it can limit your program and specialty options.

A survey conducted by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) reveals which physician specialties tend to offer the most opportunity to students who failed a licensure exam on their first attempt. 

In this AMA news article, medical students will get key takeaways from the survey and valuable information regarding:

  • Overall USMLE Step exam performance for MD and DO medical students.
  • USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 pass rates by specialty for first-year residents.
  • Which physician specialties that put less weight in a failing score.
  • How to recalibrate your career and residency Match plans after a USMLE Step 1 or Step 2 exam failure. 

 

 

 

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