Top 5 Best USMLE Step 1 Prep Courses in 2022
| USMLE Step 1 Courses | ||||
| RANKINGS | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 |
| OVERALL RATING | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| COMPANY | Pass Program USMLE | Achievable USMLE | Kaplan USMLE | Board Vitals |
| PRICE | $899 $809 | $299 $199 | $1,999 $1,600 | $179 $134 |
Full Answer
When is the best time to take USMLE Step1?
Step 1 is unarguably the most important criteria for USMLE. So score is the most important thing and not when you give it. 240 minimum should be your aim as an IMG. For an above average student (Remember this is MBBS), even the guys at the bottom of the class are smart), who is hard working and smart, the best time to take step 1 is in 7th sem.
How should I start preparing for USMLE Step 1?
- This should make up about 1/4th (25%) of the total preparation time.
- Goal: To revisit all the facts and concepts learnt in the preparation phase and to develop test-taking skills.
- Resources: First Aid + Notes from additional resources + UWorld + UWorld Journal + NBME Assessments + UWSAs
- Complete the second pass of UWorld. ...
- Revise the UWorld Journal.
When is the best time to write USMLE Step 1?
While most students take Step 1 of the Boards at the end of their second year, consider not taking the exam until you’re very confident you’ll pass. Ideally, take Step 1 by April. Two unique features of Step 1 are:
How to initiate USMLE Step 1?
Step 9: Book a test date at the Prometric website.
- On the next page, click under USMLE Step 1, click “Step 1.”
- On the Prometric website, select your preferred location to take the Exam and select “
- On the next page, select “Schedule an Appointment.”
Which course is best for USMLE Step 1?
Best USMLE Prep Courses SummaryBest Overall USMLE Prep Course – PASS Program.Best Value USMLE Prep Course – Achievable.Most USMLE Study Material – Kaplan.Best USMLE Video Lessons – Lecturio.Best USMLE Practice Questions – BoardVitals.Most Personalized Support – SmashUSMLE.
How long does it take to prepare for USMLE Step 1?
How long does it take to prep for each USMLE exam? Based on our experience working with international medical graduates, preparing for the Step 1 exam takes 6 to 12 months and Step 2 CK (clinical knowledge) 4 to 7 months.
When should I start studying for the USMLE Step 1?
Most USMLE Step 1 test-takers suggest you should begin studying at least 3 months before the exam to get the best results, but 6 months is optimal.
How many hours a day should I study for Step 1?
6-8 hours per dayMost authorities recommend 2-3 months of dedicated study time in order to prepare for USMLE Step 1. Dedicated study time should be treated like a full-time job that generally requires 6-8 hours per day, six days per week. However, the amount of time you spend studying each day depends on your own endurance.
Which coaching is best for USMLE?
The 6 Best USMLE Prep Courses and Classes of 2022SmashUSMLE — Top Pick.BoardVitals — Best Free Trial.Lecturio — Best Instructors.Kaplan — Best In-Person Experience.PASS Program — Best Product Offerings.Achievable USMLE — Best Online Course.
Is Kaplan enough for USMLE Step 1?
There is almost a consensus on the best initial biochemistry resource to prepare for the USMLE Step 1 exam: Kaplan. As we know, biochemistry is huge, with many enzymes and metabolic pathways.
Is UWorld harder than USMLE?
The UWorld exams are harder because they have more detailed information. So make sure if you want to score well on the real thing, that you study hard and do great on these practice tests as well! You can also use other sources such as First Aid or Pathoma in order to help boost your knowledge base.
Is First Aid and UWorld enough for Step 1?
As you approach your exam, this will change, and you will start focusing more on solving as many questions as you can and focusing on First Aid. As we discussed above, if you have a strong foundation from your medical school about the topics covered in STEP1, you can start directly with First Aid and UWorld of STEP 1.
Is 3 months enough for Step 1?
Traditionally, students spend roughly three months studying in a dedicated fashion for Step 1. This is why we created this 99-day study schedule for the USMLE Step 1. Simply stated, if you carefully follow this study plan, you will be equipped with everything you need to score high on the exam.
Is there any age limit for USMLE?
No there is no age limit for USMLE exam. The candidates must be officially enrolled in, or a graduate of, a medical school outside the US and Canada listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools as meeting ECFMG eligibility requirements.
How hard is it to just pass Step 1?
Unofficially, people have claimed USMLE Step 1 is the most difficult and important of the 3-part USMLE series. And, speaking from personal experience, Step 1 was one of the hardest things I had to do.
Can I prepare for USMLE in 6 months?
6 months (24 weeks) until exam: Start doing question blocks (46 questions) x 3 times a week (138 questions per week) in either the topics you've covered in class or are currently covering.
Is 3 months enough for Step 1?
Traditionally, students spend roughly three months studying in a dedicated fashion for Step 1. This is why we created this 99-day study schedule for the USMLE Step 1. Simply stated, if you carefully follow this study plan, you will be equipped with everything you need to score high on the exam.
Is 6 months enough for USMLE Step 1?
Really, you should take at least 6 months. However it depends on what kind of student you are, whether you learn fast or take repeated reviews to get something to sink in.
How hard is it to just pass Step 1?
Unofficially, people have claimed USMLE Step 1 is the most difficult and important of the 3-part USMLE series. And, speaking from personal experience, Step 1 was one of the hardest things I had to do.
How hard is Step 1 USMLE?
It's strenuous and mentally draining. And it's usually solitary, focused work. Step 1 studying can typically only be practiced for a few hours a day, for only 60-90 minutes at a time. But if you're doing it correctly, that should be all the time you can handle.
How long is the USMLE exam?
The United States Medical Licensing Examination, or USMLE Step 1, is a day-long examination that is divided into seven 60-minute blocks and administered in one eight-hour testing period. The exam consists of 280 multiple choice questions and is considered to be one of the hardest tests in med school. Additionally, many elite residency programs use ...
What is Kaplan test prep?
Kaplan test prep is one of the most trusted names in the test prep business. Founded in 1938, Kaplan makes no exception for its USMLE Step 1 prep course that has offerings for every type of budget. One thing Kaplan features that no other USMLE test prep does is their “Excellent” Trustpilot score of over 2,500 reviews.
Kaplan USMLE
The Best USMLE Course For: Students seeking high-quality in-person or live online instruction
BoardVitals USMLE
The Best USMLE Course For: Realistic and customizable USMLE practice at a super affordable price!
Achievable USMLE
The Best USMLE Course For: Comprehensive and effective content review at a great price!
What is the best prep course for the USMLE Step 1?
Here is the best USMLE Step 1 prep course based on the following criteria:
How much does a USMLE prep course cost?
The USMLE prep courses we recommend for students cost between $100 (for 3 months) to $6,000 (for an in-person immersive course). If cost is a huge factor in your final USMLE prep decision, you can also consider a book course – here’s our recs on the 13 Best USMLE Step 1 Books for 2021.
How long should I study for Step 1?
The general rule of thumb for Step 1 is 500-600 hours of studying. This can be achieved in 3-6 months depending on the amount of time you’re willing to study each day. If you don’t think you can realistically study for 10 hours/day, then feel free to extend your study plan accordingly!
Is UWorld enough for Step 1?
Most students who plan on using the UWorld Qbank for their Step 1 study will use First Aid to fill in the gaps in concepts that you may not get through practice with UWorld.
Why is USMLE prep important?
But USMLE test prep is an important part of making sure that you can pass the test and take the next step in your career. Two of the most important things to look for when deciding which prep course is right for you are adaptable formats and schedules that fit your needs and the availability of personalized instruction.
What is the USMLE exam?
The United States Medical Licensing Examination ( USMLE) is one of the major milestones for a career in healthcare. Passing the USMLE Step 1 is required to be a licensed physician in the U.S., and around 98% of residency programs require students to achieve a passing grade to be eligible to work for them. However, the test is also considered quite ...
What is a pass program?
PASS Program provides test prep for Step 1 and Step 2 of the USMLE. This company offers both live online classes, on-demand instruction, and in-person classes so you can choose a prep style that works the best for you. Questions are encouraged for more interactive classes and information is broken down to make the large volume of information more accessible for study. There are 5- and 12-week programs available, and these generally run five days a week from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a lunch break and another 20-minute break. On-site students also get unlimited access to the computer lab during regular hours and recorded lectures for at-home study.
How long is the Boardvitals free trial?
BoardVitals offers a 10-day free trial that gives you limited access (30 questions) so you can make sure the course will work for you. They have three plans designed around how much time you have to prep. The Master plan is for those who have at least six months to devote to prep and includes a 100% pass guarantee and the ability to ask medical experts content-specific questions. The Prepare plan can be completed in three months and the Cram plan in one month, and both offer access to more than 3,300 questions, detailed explanations, and an exam blueprint.
How long is the Cram plan?
The Prepare plan can be completed in three months and the Cram plan in one month, and both offer access to more than 3,300 questions, detailed explanations, and an exam blueprint. Need-to-knows: $69-$209. Online classes. 3,300+ questions.
Will the USMLE pass the step 1 test in 2022?
As of January 2022, the USMLE will be transitioning to pass/fail grading for Step 1 tests, so you may not be able to look at gain in score points to tell if the prep was worth it. However, anytime you are more prepared for a test, in both subject matter and the practical skills needed, the better you will do.
Does USMLE have accommodations?
The USMLE does provide accommodations for those with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). However, you must submit the request for accommodations with appropriate documentation and wait to be approved before scheduling your test date.
What is the USMLE STEP 1?
The USMLE STEP 1, in simple words, is a one-day computerized assessment that tests whether you understand and can apply important concepts of the fundamental sciences into medicinal practices. STEP 1 is often regarded as the hardest examination and is much more detailed than the other examinations throughout the medical school.
How successful is the USMLE test prep?
The Pass Program USMLE test prep course boasts of a 90% success rate , and a whopping 121 NBME score points increase on an average. This USMLE STEP 1 prep course will help you review the basic medical sciences in an organ system-based format. Further, you'll be taught how to apply them to clinical situations. You will be doing a few randomly chosen USMLE or COMLEX questions every day. The learning is not passive, and classes are taught in a very interactive manner, with students being encouraged to ask questions. Every day, one topic will be chosen to illustrate one broad concept and a few small ones. Each student of the USMLE test prep course will further receive weekly one-on-one sessions. The USMLE test prep course is offered in 3 formats, namely, live onsite, live online, and on-demand. We will be talking about digitally available classes only. The live-online USMLE test prep course offers you a 5-week program, an 8-week program, and a 12-week program. The on-demand videos are available at a one-time fee payment. Some of the key topics you will study in the USMLE STEP 1 prep course are:
How long is Smash USMLE?
The Smash USMLE STEP 1 prep course offers you 3 main membership plans, namely the 3-month plan, the 6-month plan, and the lifetime 120-month plan. Some of the key features included in 3-month plan are –
Is USMLE test prep passive?
The learning is not passive, and classes are taught in a very interactive manner, with students being encouraged to ask questions. Every day, one topic will be chosen to illustrate one broad concept and a few small ones. Each student of the USMLE test prep course will further receive weekly one-on-one sessions.
Is Lecturio a step 1 prep?
There is a reason why Lecturio features right at the top of this list of the best USMLE Step 1 prep courses; and the reason being that it boasts of an eclectic mix of educators from some of the most prestigious universities. And another feather in the cap is that as a learner, you have FREE access to some of their resources without plugging in your credit card. So let’s take a look at their FREE and Premium offering.
Does USMLE STEP 1 require a credit card?
The free version of the USMLE STEP 1 prep course comes without any obligation, and no credit card is required. However, it doesn't offer complete features. What this version of the USMLE STEP 1 prep course offers is:
Why is the medical exam called the step 1?
The test is conducted to gauge whether you understand and can apply the vital concepts of medicinal practices and fundamental sciences. Across the medical schools, Step 1 is regarded as the most challenging and detailed examination over all the examinations. Hence, it is vital to prepare well for Step 1. To get the right training and knowledge, you ...
Is USMLE Step 1 prep good?
It is an excellent USMLE Step 1 prep course and has a success rate of over ninety percent. Further, this USMLE Step 1 prep course has 121 NBME score points increase on average. Overall, with this USMLE test prep, you can benefit multi-fold.
Can you customize your study schedule with content review?
If you opt for the on-demand preparation method, you can conveniently customize your study schedule with content review. Some of the features that you study in this method of the Kaptest prep course include:
What is the USMLE 2021?
Verified by Peter Bailey, MD. The USMLE is a series of grueling, high-stakes exams, and your career as a doctor rides on nailing each step. In fact, your Step 1 score (soon to be pass/fail) often determines your residency match. As such, choosing the right prep course for your USMLE studies can often be ...
How many hours of video lessons are there for the USMLE?
They offer over 450 hours of on demand video lessons, as well as 4,000+ practice questions and explanations. The video lessons are led their founder Dr. Adeleke Adesina, who has been teaching to the USMLE for about a decade and has a clear mastery of the material that is tested on all steps of the exam.
What is the advantage of the USMLE?
The other major advantage of Achievable USMLE prep program is their utilization of short, bite-sized lessons. As most med school students take the USMLE Step 1 exam during their second or third year of medical school (MS2 or MS3), life can be pretty hectic while you’re studying.
What is a pass program?
PASS Program was founded nearly 25 years ago as a live on-site, fully immersive prep course. The idea was to offer a bootcamp style prep option, allowing students to get in, cram hard for a few weeks, and nail the exam so they could move on with their medical schooling and career.
How long is the Pass program?
PASS Program offers the most immersive and hands-on experience in USMLE prep. For 5 to 12 weeks (depending on which course option you go with), you’re going to meet Monday through Friday for 8 hours per day of lectures, content review, practice problem sessions, and more.
How much does a 3 month plan cost?
Their Premium 3-Month Plan runs for just shade over $100, and the prices go up from there – but not drastically. The Premium 1-Year Plan runs right around $300, the Premium 2-Year Plan a bit under $500, and even their crazy-long Premium 4-Year Plan costs just over $700.
How many volumes are in Step 1?
Step 1 students will receive a 7-volume set, Step 2 students a 5-volume set, and Step 3 students a thinner 2-volume set. In addition, Step 2 students get a handy review book, which boils all of the Step 2 content down to a manageable cram book. These books are absolutely fantastic.
Do I Need a USMLE Step 1 Prep Course?
The USMLE Step 1 is an extremely long and challenging exam, just like USMLE Step 2, and USMLE Step 3. Exams like this require months of special preparation. Even though there are numerous resources available online, preparing for the USMLE is definitely something you should not have to go through on your own.
What Your USMLE Step 1 Prep Course Should Offer
Question banks are one of the most common and helpful resources for medical students who have to sit for long multiple-choice exams such as the USMLE Step 1 or MCCQE Part 1. Any good USMLE Step 1 prep course should include a question bank with thousands of high-yield questions from real-life scenarios.
Study Tips for Your USMLE Step 1 Preparation
At the very beginning of your USMLE preparation journey and as you develop your study plan, you should make sure to gather all of the resources that you are going to be using. Textbooks and theory are, of course, essential, but you shouldn’t underestimate the importance of your own notes and other online resources that might make the difference.
Conclusion
A USMLE Step 1 prep course can be a game-changer if it offers the right resources. You will need the right resources and a good set of high-yield study techniques for medical school to ace this test.
Best USMLE Step 1 Question Banks 2022
Looking for more than just a Qbank? Compare the Best USMLE Step 1 Prep Courses here. Or consider or top live course provider below.
Pass Program USMLE Step 1 Course
Extra Help When You Need It: There is a fantastic team of instructors that are ready and willing to help with any question you have. Of course they will not tutor you, but if you’ve missed a key concept, you may reach out and get detailed answers in 10-20 minutes.
What is the best USMLE Step 1 Question Bank?
Kaplan USMLE Qbank Updates: Learn up close and personal with 3D biodigital images, new strategies, a test-like interface, and even more features in Kaplan’s updated USMLE® Step 1 Qbank. Their flexible pricing and streamlined interface offer many positive additional benefits as well making it our #1 Qbank of 2020!
Board Vitals USMLE Coupon Code
UWorld has a substantial USMLE Step 1 QBank that does a fantastic job imitating the real thing.
