What the higher Step 2 CK passing score means for your study prep

USMLE Step 2 CK performance can have big implications for Match. Find out why the change happened and what medical students should do now.

By
Brendan Murphy Senior News Writer
| 8 Min Read

An announcement this summer of a four-point increase in the minimum-passing score for Step 2 CK of the United States Medical Licensing Examination—also called the USMLE Step 2 Clinical Knowledge—may concern medical students who wonder that higher threshold could mean the difference between passage and failure. 

The AMA offers timely resources to give medical students the advice and tools to prepare for USMLE Step 2 CK, a key milestone on the road to residency. In this article, medical students will get valuable information regarding:

  • Why the USMLE Step 2 CK passing threshold went up.
  • How the Step 2 score increase differs from Step 1.
  • What the change could mean for exam prep.
    How failing Step 2 can negatively affect one’s residency-application prospects.
  • Key methods and resources to boost your score on the USMLE Step 2 CK.

 

 

 

Sign in to read this article.

Create a free account to view this content. 

AMA membership has its advantages

  • Be a part of the nation's largest physician organization
  • Play a role in shaping the future of health care
  • Enjoy exclusive perks and savings

Not a member? Become a member now.

FEATURED STORIES FOR MEDICAL STUDENTS

Figures climb a stack of giant books

What ERAS application changes could mean for future Match cycles

| 6 Min Read
Group of stethoscopes

What medical students should know about combined residency programs

| 4 Min Read
Medical students at the U.S. Capitol

4 reasons why this D.C. conference is a must for medical students

| 4 Min Read
Biochemist surrounded with icons depicting biotechnology, genetic engineering and medicine

Which GME specialties have the most—and fewest—MD-PhDs?

| 6 Min Read