Friday, January 9, 2015

USMLE for Indian medical students

What is the best time to start preparing?
As soon as you have the slightest gut feeling that you might wanna go to the US. It's better to start preparing early and then change your mind than to start late.
I started in March of my third year. Ideally, you should start in your early second year.
It's never "too late" to start. I have a friend who started in internship and nailed the exam within a few months. Preparation time varies.

When do I give the exam / what is the best time to give the exam?
The best time to give the exam is - Anytime you feel prepared.
If you started early, you can give it in the beginning or end of third minor.  I gave it in the month of June of third major. Do what suits you. Study and make your own dead line.
If you started late, frankly, you have no choice - Give it in internship or after internship.
I have a lot of people asking me in the comments - I am in this year. When should I give the exam? I can not tell you when should you give the exam. I don't know how much you have you prepared and how ready you are. Study hard. Give it as soon as possible because Step 1 helps you get better electives. Preferably, give it before internship so you can apply for electives on time. That's all I can say. You have to make the decision based on how many months you are free / how urgently you want to give the exam / how much are you scoring on your self-assessments.

Budget?
The most restraining part of going to the US. You'll need 15-20 hundred thousand (lakhs) till you get residency. For Step 1, you just need a budget of around 70,000 Indian rupees.
I don't think you should quit on your dream based on you finances alone. I believe that if you really want something, you'll find a way to accomplish it somehow.

How do I decide whether I want to give the USMLE or not?
Your decision will be (mostly) based on these factors -
I won't get my desired field of study in India:
PG CET is super competitive and after multiple attempts, people don't get the field they want. USMLE is an option for those who don't wanna risk their future based on scores alone.
I want to see foreign countries and have a passion for travelling:
That's me. I want to pack my bags and see new places. USMLE will license me to practice in multiple countries, so that's a plus point for my wanderlust soul. 
Social factor:
Most people don't want to shift to the US because there is no social life out there, as in, relatives and all. Vice versa, those who have their family out there would love to shift to the US.
Better quality of life:
You get what I am saying ;)

How will I manage second year - third year - final year?
USMLE is the toughest exam you'll give. Compared to it, all your MBBS exams will be really easy. Yes, you'll be anxious about it at first but once you gain the knowledge, you'll feel more confident about your Indian syllabus.

Lemme know if you have any more questions, I'll keep updating accordingly.

Questions asked by readers:

Will USMLE preps be very different from the Indian PG exam preparation? 
Yes, it'll be different from PG CET. You can undoubtedly still crack it. But by that time, you'll have invested so much in USMLE that there will be no point in PG CET even if you get the necessary score. 

You mean monetary investment, right?
Yes. You also invest your soul but no one can measure and tell you that :P

(With respect to a conversation on studying pathology) 
USMLE helps for the college stuff as in terms and university exams too, right? I mean, it's pathology after all... How much could it differ?
It's not exactly Pathology. More of Medicine from final year. You'll get it when you study.
It does help but the Indian syllabus is very different in terms of infectious diseases like malaria which aren't a big deal in foreign countries.
And in theory exams, you need bulk matter to write which USMLE can't provide you with. If you've studied USMLE properly, MBBS doesn't seem like a big deal.

Updated on 17th February, 2018: This post was written in 2014 when I gave my Step 1 exam. Things have changed since then, especially, my perspective about things.

Why should you consider USMLE?
For the journey. Your personality will develop significantly after going through the USMLE journey. The kind of experiences you will have are amazing - writing a 7 hour exam, going to a different country, meeting people from all over the world and the opportunity to train in an environment where all of your skills are respected and polished. That, my friends, is not offered in India. You will grow into a different person, a better person. I don't even recognize the girl 4 years ago who wrote this post - she has changed so much. She is looking forward to research, to teaching as a resident, to becoming an artist and an academician. She wants to work in the under served areas and make patients better.

How long does it take?
If you have not graduated, you can take Step 1 in final year, go for electives during internship, finish off Step 2 CS and CK and apply the year you graduate.
If you have graduated - Step 1 takes 4-9 months, Step 2 CK 2-4 months and Step 2 CS 1-2 months with electives. You should be ready for applications in August/September.

Can I extend my internship so that I have time to do electives?
Yes, most people do!!!

I have a government bond. What should I do? 
The government rural service bond (applicable in some states such as Maharashtra) delays you by a year or two. You can either break the bond by paying it off or do the rural service. Regardless, Program Directors are aware that the bond is compulsory so it's okay if you apply late (a year after graduation) as long as you explain what you were doing since you've graduated.

I am taking questions till July 1st 2018, so if you have doubts, do not hesitate to comment below or email me at medicowesome@gmail.com

Related posts:
Preparing for the USMLE Step 1 exam

175 comments:

  1. Hey it's good to hear from guys like u! when i googled for usmle exams and guides there were no proper indian ones.
    And basically i finished my final year and i failed in all 4 i didn't study for them exams . I want to start now i mean right from the basicsc and u please help me out with planning i mean just a startup what should i do? it's like when i did research on USMLE it's like a HUGE BLACK HOLE!!
    Thanks in advance

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh I am so sorry to hear that!
      You failed in which exam? The Indian one or MLE?

      Delete
  2. Indian one and i went blank ,so no worries :)
    See imagine me as a medical student who finished 51/2 years but i have got no idea about .I never went to classes or postings
    I want to start now any ideas?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh well, it's not gonna be easy for you, but it's possible.
      Kaplan videos and notes is a good start for you!

      Delete
  3. hi. i am a final year student from india and reading this has really helped me.i have been planning on usmle for years, but i was always under the impression that you start preparing for it in internship and not earlier. i really do need to get in, and i would really like some help, tips and whatever else you can offer. thank you!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Start as soon as possible is my advice to you! You can use the initial months of your final year to study for step 1 and then switch back to final year studies. Give Step 1 BEFORE internship begins.

      Delete
  4. Hello :) I just gave my first year exams sometime back. Thanks a lot for putting up so much information about the USMLE.. really helped me understand how to prepare better.
    When do suggest is the ideal time to give the exam (step 1)? is it right after the final year exams or in the third year or before that?
    When did u give step 1?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello! Glad it helped ya.

      I gave it in final year (Month of May).
      Ideal would be in third year, according to most.
      I suggest right after final year. Just before internship begins.

      Delete
  5. Hi I am 3rd student..i haven't started preparing anything..i don't hav confidence tat I will clear becas I m not tat studious..i m concentrating in my syllabus alone..i hav my university exams tis feb..is tis the right time to prepare.will I be able to compete with those who hav been preparing since their 2nd yr..n in my place I don't hav any exposure to coaching centres..so what how and when should I do...thanks

    ReplyDelete
  6. Hi I am 3rd student..i haven't started preparing anything..i don't hav confidence tat I will clear becas I m not tat studious..i m concentrating in my syllabus alone..i hav my university exams tis feb..is tis the right time to prepare.will I be able to compete with those who hav been preparing since their 2nd yr..n in my place I don't hav any exposure to coaching centres..so what how and when should I do...thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello! It's okay, start today.
      The more you study, the more confident you'll get! Nothing is impossible.

      The right time is now, so just start.
      Don't compare yourself to others, concentrate on improving yourself.

      You'll have to figure out how to manage university exams with Step 1 preparations, I can't help you there.

      I didn't go for coaching either. Books and question banks are more than enough!
      Take the first step, get your books and get studious today =)

      Delete
  7. Hi:) I'm a third year student and going to finish my exams in a month or two .. Thnq for the information you have given ..it kinda built up my confidence. I planned to give usmle step 2ck an attempt just when my fourth yr exams end up .. And then go with step 1 in the beginning of housie .. Would it help ?

    ReplyDelete
  8. Hi! so so glad to have stumbles on this blog. Can you do a more detailed post on why we should write step 1 before internship? because the thing is Alot of people recommend internship as you have only one attempt. I've just come into third year. So I need some help making up my mind and then I need to start studying :P

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. There are plenty of reasons you should write Step 1 before internship:
      - It's the best time, you will get relatively busy later (With internship, electives)
      - You get "done" with one hurdle.
      - You will get better electives. (Cleveland, Mayo, etc.)
      - You can go for electives sooner with a score in hand.

      Start studying asap!
      (If you are less prepared, you can always delay your exam to internship. But if you start studying in internship, you are out of time.)

      Delete
  9. hey, i am giving my second year final exams and will be in my 3rd year after a month. i want to do my pg from the USA. is it tough? how do i strt? will i be able to get a seat in the usa in the meantime..i mean.. just after completing my internship, will i be able to get the seat if i pass in all the parts of usmle? is only usmle needed for a post graduation in the usa?
    any other exam? also, do we need LOR for getting a pg seat in the USA?
    i have done some electives from the usa with the help of FMG PORTAL. and have got 3 LORS from 3 doctors from there. so will it help?

    i am really confused, please help me, :(

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It is never easy. If it was easy, everybody would do it.

      Start by giving step 1. You need to pass 3 steps of USMLE. No other exams.

      You do need LoR's. 3 are enough.

      How did you do electives if you aren't in your last year? I am sorry but I find it extremely weird that you ask simple questions like these after doing electives.

      Delete
    2. Hello ma'am/sir
      I am sorry but its just that i am really nervous and tensed regarding the procedure and everything.
      I did my externship from Cleveland ohio with the help of fmgportal.. They allow all the second third and fourth year students to do externship in the USA.

      Delete
  10. hey how can i get electives in cleveland hospital?
    please tell me a way to do so..
    thank you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Apply through the website just like everyone else and hope for the best.

      Delete
  11. sir,
    what are cme/ce credit for?
    what are the use of these credits?
    how do they help in job?
    does it help in the USA too?

    ReplyDelete
  12. Hello there sir,I stumbled across this amazing blog of urs nd I'm really glad tht u did this bit for help......I've just given my 2nd year university examinations nd awaiting results....I'm pretty ich interested in giving usmle.....Nd I'm equally studious too,but I've got no experience in how to get my cv strong...pls can u help me out in detail what I should do in order to get my cv quite strong?also I ance a doubt tht do Indian students get pg courses related to surgery as I've heard rumours tht one can it get a md nd not a ms degree frm there!!?!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks!
      Do research to strengthen your CV.
      Surgery is difficult to get, but not impossible.
      The general opinion is - It's better to do surgery in India than in the US.

      Delete
  13. Hey I have just given my 3rd year exam right now
    When is the best tym to give step 1? Do u get electives in us without a step 1 score ? Which all universities give it ? How many months u need for applying for electives? When is the best tym to do electives? N when did u give step 1? N where did u do ur electives

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. So many basic questions!

      I have written about timing in my blog.

      You do get electives without Step 1, but they're expensive.

      You need to be apply 6-8 months prior.

      Beginning or end of internship is the best time.

      I gave mine in June 2014, final year. I'm from 2010 batch.

      I'm doing my electives right now.

      Delete
  14. Hello, m grateful to u fr all ds stuffs u told abt US MLE . M abt to finish 2nd year. I hv a small dream of craking US MLE n pursue my pg there in US. Bt m nt sure it wud b affordable fr me or nt. Is there any financial aid fr financialy poor students bt stil hv an ambition to study there?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I am sorry but I'm not aware of any financial aids.

      I took personal loans and kept expenses to a bare minimum during my US trips and exams.

      You can also look for alternate sources of income that don't hamper your studies.

      Delete
  15. Hello sir. .am in my mid of third year and would like to take the usmle. .wen might be the ideal time to take the test? Am a green caed holder..will that make any difference for applying for the exam?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Whenever you are ready to give the exam but as soon as possible is what I would recommend.

      Yes, the green card gives you an upper hand in applying for residency programs in the US but your visa status doesn't affect your exam application process.

      Delete
  16. Hello sir. .am in my mid of third year and would like to take the usmle. .wen might be the ideal time to take the test? Am a green caed holder..will that make any difference for applying for the exam?

    ReplyDelete
  17. Hi there..thank you so much for providing such good information. ..am in third year of mbbs and wud like to take usmle..wen wud it be appropriate. And also will we be able to write if we are in the additional batch ??

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Additional batch as in? I didn't get your question.

      Give the exam whenever you are ready!

      Delete
    2. Additional batch as in missed 6 months as in supplementary...

      Delete
    3. You will be able to write the exam regardless of which batch you are in.

      Delete
  18. What would be the approximate fees for MD in the USA after MBBS from India.?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello sir ..
      I meant to ask how much would it cost me from usmle to my post graduation there in the USA?
      How much would be the approx. Money I will be spending on my post graduation there?
      Thanks

      Delete
    2. From what I've heard, it takes around 10-20 lakh Indian rupees. Maybe more. I am not sure.

      Exam fees are:
      Step 1: 880$
      Step 2 CK: 880$
      Step 2 CS: 1,535$

      Most of your money will be invested in doing electives, which is clinical experience in the US. The money you spend in your electives varies.

      If you give step 1, you can get really cheap electives (Just application fees around 100-500$).
      If you don't have your score, you might end up paying 2000$ per month for electives.
      You need a minimum of three months of Us clinical experience in the US.

      You'll also spend money when you take the step 2 CS exam, which is in the US.

      Staying in the US during electives is expensive. The rent varies from 300$-1000$
      Each meal cost you 6-8$. Maybe more. Maybe less. Depends on how wisely you spend.

      And then, the applying for various programs cost you money. Going for interviews will cost you. But I am not sure how much because I haven't been through the process.

      Once you get selected for residency, you get paid. So you won't be spending after you get into post-graduation.

      Delete
  19. Hello! It's been a lot of valuable information! I just got into my third year and I'm really really determined about the mle! I've got the Kaplan notes, first aid and books like goljan. But I'm really confused where to start from! Okay, take me as a smart student but not really hard-working.. Just passed my 2nd yr with 67%. I live in a place where I can't really take any live mle coaching. So if I will start now, will I be able to perform well in 3rd year? So I'm really confused! Where do I start? When do you think I should give? I would be really glad if you would be my guide towards mle!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Start with Goljan pathology. You'll be able to give it in third year, just be consistent! :)

      Delete
  20. And what if we give our mle after internship? Will it become really difficult to get an elective later?

    ReplyDelete
  21. When do we have to fix the date? Like approximately how many months before? Is it possible for me to right this September?

    ReplyDelete
  22. Hai! Im Indian(dependent)staying in USA.Im preparing for step 1 now.Before giving steps what are all the tests I can take,NBME and any?how many NBME tests do I need to take.I have Kaplan and first aid books right now and planning to give step 1 coming feb or March.Any suggestions plz.
    And once we clear 3 steps how do we get into clinical practice,thanks in advance.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Depends on how many you can afford and how much you score in them. People take them till they score a satisfactory score. I took 2 NBMEs.

      I don't know much about clinical practice since I am applying for residency.

      Delete
  23. Hai,One more thing to mention I had backlogs in my first year and final year of MBBS which I had to clear later.Do we need to provide our memos to USMLE board?does they effect my USMLE?

    ReplyDelete
  24. Hello sir/ mam,
    I wish to study my masters in the US. I haven't done quite well in the all India exams.I've finished my internship in 2015. Is it still a good time to start preparing for mle or to just continue to crack the Indian pg exam??

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If you have graduated, it will be a little difficult but not impossible.

      You are the one who is supposed to decide, but decide soon so that you can work on giving the steps / doing observerships and applying for the match early.

      Delete
  25. sir, as you have mentioned above that one needs to have atleast 3 months of US clinical experience, when should i opt for that?
    my college wont provide me with any help in attendance.
    and as attendance is a big criteria in medical colleges, so when should i apply for electives/externships? i have just passed my second year and have started with third year classes.
    is there something that could help me in convincing my dean or teachers to let me go for the electives for 3 months?
    kindly reply soon.
    thank you

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You need to do it in your last year of medical school. Most people go at the beginning of internship, at the end of internship or extend their internship to attend.

      Most colleges are supportive when it comes to electives. You just need to ask the PSM department for permission and tell them that you will repeat the postings you will miss in the 3 month period. The deans are co-operative too as per my experience. Ask your seniors for more guidance.

      I advise you to give step 1 asap and apply for electives during Final year (March - June) to get an elective in internship start (Jan-May) or apply in internship for next year. Apply 6-8 months prior.

      Delete
  26. IKan,Thanks so much for ur reply.Are there any specific NBME's to take I mean any specific one to take.
    What is U world when to take it before or after NBME?
    What are electives I mean regarding USMLE?Can u plz once explain whole USMLE process step by step I mean like taking NBME then steps1,2,3 and then .....
    Plz let me know whole USMLE process I'm in dilemma,after steps what's the next step when to do residency,etc.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. uWorld is a question bank used for learning. Take NBMEs after uWorld because they predict your score.

      Electives are clinical experience in US.

      You apply for residency after steps, go for interviews and if a program likes you, you get matched to their residency program.

      Please read more about the residency process through the internet. Your questions are too basic and broad. Let me know if you have specific questions you need help with, I'll help you out. I'm too busy to write about the whole process in detail. Good luck!

      Delete
  27. Thanks a lot,these were my doubts and u answered almost my every question ☺️
    Really ur posts are very supportive.Once again thanks.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You're most welcome. All the very best, Krishna, in all your future endeavors :)

      Delete
  28. greetings sir,
    i have just received my sister's usmle books published in year 2003,
    shall i start preparing with these books or i have to buy the latest edition?

    ReplyDelete
  29. Great blogpost. Even the Kaplan Medical's post doesn't simplify it this much for an IMG. Thanks

    ReplyDelete
  30. Hey!
    I'm a fourth year student. I just started with step 1prep. I was a little worried that I started a little too late. So a little disheartened. Also the other day a friend of mine(non medico) asked me how penicillin worked and I completely blanked out, it used to be on the tips of my fingers until 3rd year. So I'm pretty much freaking out.

    ReplyDelete
  31. hello im doing mbbs from bangalore , i want to ask you does failing a subject in mbbs have a major impact on ou usmle application

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. thanks a lot for quick reply ...also i want to ask some colleges dont ask step one before electives right?? and is observership same like electives?

      Delete
    2. Check this post out: http://medicowesome.blogspot.in/2016/03/a-short-post-on-how-to-apply-for.html

      Delete
  32. hello ! could u pls clarify on what exactly u mean by electives ? because i have heard many ppl use this tern and dont really know wat it means n i m embarrased to ask

    ReplyDelete
  33. Can you suggest me some universities to apply for electives based on toefl scores because i cant find any university except for harvard and yale that are accepting any international students for now.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. electives.us is a great website. Check it out. There's FIU, Mount Sinai, etc.

      Delete
  34. Thank you for all the information you've given. I've just started my life as a first year medical student here in India. USMLE is my dream and i knew about this since i was in 12th. I want to start the preparations for USMLE from now onwards. Sir,could you please tell me books and other things i want to take care of being a first year student.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Start Kaplan. Do clinically oriented questions. Make sure you're thorough with neuroanatomy, try reading x-rays and CT scans.

      Happy studying!

      Delete
  35. Hi sir! I am a first year med student in india and i would really like to know my best future decision from someone who has been through it all(like you). I did always have a dream of practicing medicine in the U.S.
    But i also do not have much problems practicing here in india. My question is... which exam is comparatively easier; All 4 steps of usmle or Indian PG exams?(yes i know these two are different types of exams, but still... i would really appreciate any type of help.)
    Maybe explain the main difficulties in these 2 exams? I really need to make a decision and i would certainly appreciate any sort of help from you.
    thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Both exams are equally difficult.

      PG preparation requires a lot of memorization and if you aren't hard working from the beginning, people take 2-3 years to get the desired rank.

      USMLE requires a lot of understanding but the scores aren't everything. You can make your CV stronger by research, experience, etc.

      It's hard getting PG in India mainly because half the seats are reserved making it really difficult for you to get your desired specialty in a good college.

      USMLE process is hard because it requires to stay away from home, travel in a foreign country and adjust to a completely new work environment and life style. It pushes you out of the comfort zone, basically.

      Delete
    2. Thanks a lot for replying sir. Now let's say someone clears both usmle steps(gets a suitable residency) and another person clears the indian pg exams. Now which person would be in a better situation career-wise and future-wise? how long would each person have to study and train before being able to do their own practice? and how much would be the starting and late(after becoming a pro in his field) salaries?
      Also what the the best fields for an IMG(especially one from india) in the US for residency?in terms of easiest to secure and commonness?

      Delete
    3. You can't compare because of the difference in medical conditions and facilities available. A doctor in the developed country may have access to robotic surgeries, gene mutation tests, expensive drugs and scans. A doctor in the developing countries only has experience because of more number of patients. Also, infectious diseases like malaria and typhoid aren't that prevalent.

      Common fields are IM, peds, anaesthesia, neurology, family medicine and less common but possible, surgery.

      For Internal Medicine, both take about the same time.

      The quality of life is better in America.

      Delete
    4. what are the books and study materials you used for step 1?

      Delete
    5. http://medicowesome.blogspot.com/2015/01/preparing-for-usmle-step-1-exam.html

      Delete
  36. Hey dude... need help... what about CV .. i never actively participated in any program... so how is that goin to affect..

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks... n ya where can i get the Q WORLD question bank... i tried searchin in ma city.. but cudnt find..

      Delete
  37. Hai,do we need to have scheduling permit to take NBME practice test at a center?and how many months before we need to register?
    If we want to apply for step1,in FAQ I read that we need to have college stamp is it?Im an IMG staying in USA so do I need to go India and get the college stamp?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. No permit needed for NBME.
      Register 3 months before you want to take the exam.
      Have you graduated? If you have, you don't need a college stamp. I am not sure.

      Delete
  38. Yup I'm graduated.Thanks and how many months prior do we need to register for the main exam.
    Are there any specific sites to register for NBME and main exams,please mention and do we need to provide our memos now.

    ReplyDelete
  39. will taking longer to graduate from medical school have any negative effect in how they are going to judge you when getting matched even if you have good scores on steps?

    ReplyDelete
  40. hello, umm i am going to be starting my mbbs course this august. I have no medical background what so ever so I am really unaware about most of the things, and i was just googling things about usmle examinations and procedures and i found your blog which i extremely helpful.I want to know how to systematically prepare for usmle and my mbbs exams. thank you so much for helping me.

    ReplyDelete
  41. Thanks for your valuable responses. I am 3 years past my graduation. And desire to take up usmle steps now. I see most people take that call during their course unlike me. What are my odds? What advice would you give to doctors who desire to take up usmle past their graduation? Is there anyway I can still do electives or observership ..since I am not enrolled as student anymore. Please do help

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It will be tougher for you. But it is not impossible.

      You can apply for observerships since you have graduated.

      Delete
  42. Hai,which is better one to go with,NBME self assessment at home(online purchase) or at a pro metric center ?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you.Im in USA,Im thinking to give my step 1 this year end but I have to go India on some work around that time so can I give steps there and come back?

      Delete
  43. Hai,I'm filling my step1 application,I see in item 21 "clinical clerkship" The term clinical clerkships refers to that period in your medical education in the clinical disciplines during which, as a medical student, you gained practical experience in hospitals or clinics through rotations, pregraduate internships, etc. So what do I fill there?my 2nd to 4th clinical posting dates or internship dates and incase if it is posting dates as I'm old IMG I don't have my 2nd to fourth year posting dates so can I leave it blank or how to fill it plz let me know.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Your transcript from college will have your posting dates on it.
      If not, just write the approximate dates. Accurate dates aren't necessary!

      Delete
  44. Thank U,this forum is very helpful.
    Im an old IMG completed my entire course from one medical college so what all forms do I need to send along form 186.
    And my name in my diploma is K.Lathasree(no space) but in ecfmg as we need to mention surname I did and they took it as Latha Sree Kamambati(and there is space between Latha and Sree)so is it Okay or do I need to send some verification to show that it is the same name.Im in dilemma help me.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Why don't you email or call ECFMG about your problem? They are very helpful and usually reply within a week! :)

      Delete
  45. Can the three steps be given back to back or they need to have some specific time period between them.

    ReplyDelete
  46. Can the three steps be given back to back or they need to have some specific time period between them.

    ReplyDelete
  47. hey there, im telling you this is the best-over-internet site for knowing about MLE for indian studs,appreciate that!
    now, i am in 2nd year,1st term,would you please give me every important info about what to do in 2nd year for scoring better in MLE,please!

    ReplyDelete
  48. What if im already doing pg in India and want to practice medicine or job in USA?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You still need to clear 3 USMLE exams to get your license and be ECFMG certified. I don't know the process in detail.

      Delete
  49. hello...i have just my internship. and i have now started preparing for usmle. i wish to pursue general surgery in usa. how difficult is it? how high should my score be? in what sequence should i give my exams? now should i focus on my text or focus more on question banks? which question bank should i use? n i know it sounds stupid but i m cluesless about electives and LORs? please help

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It is hard, but not impossible.
      260+
      1, 2, 3
      Both
      uWorld
      Read the blogs?

      Delete
  50. hi
    i have a query . i failed in my final mbbs exams and i have a gap of 2 yrs post internship . will these all affect getting usmle residency since i want to do pg in pediatrics and not getting in india. shud i even try for usmle since cv is very imp ?

    ReplyDelete
  51. How exactly did you apply for your electives? Were there any rejections? What time of the year are colleges open for these electives?

    ReplyDelete
  52. Hello, if I get ATKT once in second year MBBS Microbiology exam, will it affect to my USMLE residency match or any USMLE steps or interview?
    Are there less chances or less priority to them who even failed once even in single subject?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. No, it doesn't matter as long as you don't fail any USMLE steps!

      Delete
  53. I'm an Indian studeny, currently interning. I have started preparing for my step 1 n I want to give it in the month of may. Is it enough time for me to prepare? Like 3, months?
    And, if I don't feel prepared can I give it after coming back from electives which is for 3 months?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It is enough if you can finish UWorld in those 3 months. But hey, can't say for sure. Don't know where you stand.

      Yeah, you can give it later.

      Give an NBME. It's a good score predictor!

      Delete
  54. Hello , i have just started my internship , i have decided to start preparing for usmle , is it too late ? Or is it ok to take up step 1 usmle by end of this year and then do step 2 and electives by next year ? Am i too late or is it possible to get a residency by end of next year .

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's never too late.

      Make sure it's what you want and go for it!

      Delete
  55. Dear Sir/Madam,
    Mine is a slightly problematic situation which I would like to explain a little in detail so please bear with me..I completed my MBBS in March 2012,and since then I have been on and off preparing for the Indian PG entrance exams..I did work for a year in between at a reputed hospital in Mumbai in the Dept. of Gastroenterology and have got letters to that effect.However now I am in a situation where I have to decide about my career aspects in the US because of my prospective marriage issues. There is a guy living in the US on H1B and whether or not his Green Card will even be filed will be known only by mid 2018,as his H1b expires in mid 2019.According to him it's a 50:50 chance. Now my problem here is I have had almost a 4 year break from clinical work. Is it worth starting preparation for USMLE now and try and clear the initial steps in a year? Is it even possible? And how much of an impact will this break make on my matching process? Also if a situation arises where we may have to leave the US due to visa issues,I'm assuming my preparations may not hold good for countries like Canada or Europe.So I just want to know the possibility of my chances at matching in the best case scenario where I clear step 1 and 2 with a good score but my CV shows a significant break?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's a complicated situation, love, but it ultimately boils down to how bad you want it. If you give your heart and soul into it, you will match.

      I have read about people who graduated 10 years ago and matched. You just need to work on your CV and become a strong candidate.

      Delete
  56. i have failed in one of the subjects in final mbbs does it affect the residency in usmle interviews or anyother way in pursuing usmle.. or can i still go in with opting usmle

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. As long as you don't fail any of the USMLE steps, it shouldn't affect your CV

      Delete
  57. Hai guys,I'm an IMG I want to take online coaching for step1,which classes are good to go with? I mean any specific centers

    ReplyDelete
  58. Dear sir ,
    I'm doing internship in Chennai , In short I like to travel a lot meet new people and places but I am really confused about doing usmle is it more hectic job in us will I be able to travel ? Are they giving visa easily ?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If you application is strong, you do get a residency and visa.

      Delete
  59. Hi! I am a 2014 graduate and tried for PG exam in India and then decided to choose USMLE. I have given my step 1 and got 197, failed step 2 CS and trying hard to study for step 2 CK and planning to give it in 1 month. I have 2 months of US clinical experience and currently looking for more research experience here. I have spent my 2 years into USMLE and still not sure whether I would get matched next year and it is going to be altogether my 3 years of time into this. My family wanted me to concentrate on NEET PG now. I wanted to know if my Step 1, step 2 ck knowledge is useful and if I can study in 3 months to give NEET PG exam this year?

    ReplyDelete
  60. Hey, I'm a mbbs student in tamil nadu. Do u know any place in and around chennai where I can get proper counselling for making my way to do higher studies in us? Is there any way I can contact us?

    ReplyDelete
  61. Hey I'm a second year student..I just wanted to know do you have to watch the Kaplan videos or are their courseware with first aid and practice tests sufficient??

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. UW and FA should be sufficient, Kaplan is not necessary if your basics are strong.

      Delete
  62. I'm a third year medico aiming for usmle step 1...! Just need a study partner for usmle preparation! Anyone interested to join me?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Up for it! Where are you from? Email me! vivekjadawala@gmail.com

      I’m a Final year mbbs student!

      Delete
  63. I'M a medical student and just have taken this stream tis year but am always curious for USMLE's,can i give this test just after 12th standard

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. No, after 12th you need to give MCAT for doing medical school in the US.

      USMLE is for medical students pursuing residency in the US.

      Delete
  64. Hi... I am in mbbs 1st year. I have just started... I want to give usmle... What is the best time to give it... N is the textbook we are using like BD Chourasia for anatomy... Etc.. Are ok for preparation of usmle??

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Preparing for the USMLE Step 1 exam
      http://medicowesome.blogspot.ae/2015/01/preparing-for-usmle-step-1-exam.html

      I have no idea about USMLE Step 1
      http://medicowesome.blogspot.ae/2015/01/i-have-no-idea-about-usmle-step-1.html

      Delete
  65. Hello I'll be giving 3 Rd year final exams in dec so when should I plan on giving step 1 usmle. I have study material and videos just that I haven't started preparing for usmle and please guide me whether to give step 1 first and then apply for electives or should I apply for electives now and do it in between internship next year without giving step 1

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Step 1 first, then electives.

      All of your questions have been answered before, please read.

      Preparing for the USMLE Step 1 exam
      http://medicowesome.blogspot.ae/2015/01/preparing-for-usmle-step-1-exam.html

      I have no idea about USMLE Step 1
      http://medicowesome.blogspot.ae/2015/01/i-have-no-idea-about-usmle-step-1.html

      Electives http://www.medicowesome.com/2016/03/a-short-post-on-how-to-apply-for.html

      USCE http://www.medicowesome.com/2016/04/dr-thinker-united-states-clinical.html

      Delete
  66. hello sir , im doing my internship now , minimum how much time itll take to go through all these 3 steps of USMLE and till getting residency?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Minimum 6 months - 1 year. Depends on your baseline medical knowledge.

      Delete
  67. Hey! So this year I'll be completing my 12th standard and giving NEET 2018. But I really want to pursue medical in US. So can you tell how can I start now? I don't know anything yet. I mean do i first give Neet and get a college or what? It'll be really helpful if you replied.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Please clarify what you wish to do:
      1. Do medical school in the US.
      2. Do medical school in India and pursue further training (Residency) in the US.

      Delete
  68. hello sir, i am an IMG from INDIA. Do you think we can extend internship,complete all the steps and clerkships within two years then take my graduation certificate and apply for residency the same year?? if so.. will there be any sought of a question from the interviewer regarding why is there a delay in my completion of graduation and then how do you think i should answer the question ??

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You can do that, however, I would recommend delaying only for electives, not for exams.

      Because sometimes ECFMG emails the medical school and asks why there was a delay in graduation. In that case, away rotations is a good explanation.

      Interviewers are unaware of the number of years required in medical school for graduation - they are unlikely to ask this question (some schools graduate after 6 years, some after 8 years)

      Delete
    2. Okay.I have already delayed nearly for an year so i was worried about this. Thank you.

      Delete
  69. Hey. Im a final year student just done with my third year practicals. I have taken kaplan coaching but because of insufficient time i couldnt complete the entire course and it got expired and then i had my finals. However i completed four subject. And that means only the lecture notes. They didnt provide me with the FA. Now that im free from exams i am planning to study seriously for usmle because i want to give it right after i am done with final year. How do i start ? Where should i purchase the first aid from? And is FA and UW qbank sufficient? Or should i purchase other books as well?And what is NBME?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. FA and UW should suffice if basic sciences are strong.

      NBME is a mock test.

      Delete
  70. Hii
    Can I take step 1 after completion of my internship

    ReplyDelete
  71. Hey Im from west bengal and started internship and in a very critical point right now so any advice would be very helpful. I have started my internship from march 2018 and planned to give step 1 before internship but failed to do so. We don't have the culture of seniors opting for extension of internship. So i am very stressed now as am worrying i will fail to get electives and give step 1 within time afer a lot of hard work. Can you please advise me exactly who i should be talking to in my college and what to say to succesfully get a extension? As in will my graduation year change from 2013 - 18 change from 2013 - 19? Its a government college and these guys are not at all cooperative and want interns doing their duty at any costs. (I don't mind doing duty but I need that extension to give step 1 and then apply for electives.) PLEASE help and give some advice. If possible elaborately? This is a very critical time for me and your help could actually make or break my career. I have memories of seeing your youtube videos while preparing last year. But am feeling its all going to waste now. please help.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'm currently in the exact same situation i still have one month of internship pending. Should i complete it and then not go for mci registration or should i leave it incomplete for now, kindly help me out.

      Delete
  72. Can you give a little more idea about what happens after you crack USMLE and get into a college in the US? What are the options to do post graduation in?How is life in general as a doctor in the US?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. What specifically do you want to know about? Tailor to a specialty and I maybe able to answer you better.

      Delete
  73. I'll start with my first year of mbbs in philippines. How and what should be my strategy to crack USMLE exam step 1. Please guide me.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Already on the website:
      http://www.medicowesome.com/2018/03/how-i-scored-258-on-step-1.html
      http://www.medicowesome.com/2018/03/my-usmle-step-1-experience-road-to-255.html
      http://www.medicowesome.com/2015/01/preparing-for-usmle-step-1-exam.html

      Delete
  74. I gave NEET 2018 and got enrolled in MBBS course. I'm really serious about USMLE and would like to know the best time to give step 1, step 2 CK and CS. Also, when do you advise to do the electives?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Check out USMLEowsome videos by Medicowesome http://www.medicowesome.com/2018/04/usmleowesome-introduction.html

      Delete
  75. Hi, I just cleared my final year Mbbs 2 days back, I've been preparing usmle for almost 1 year now, but I'm not sure if I should give it after joining my internship or before joining, can a student prepare for MLE during internship?

    ReplyDelete
  76. Can I keep one month of internship pending after the September 15th deadline? Do they need some internship completion document before applying for residency?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If you have not graduated, you will not be ECFMG certified. That may work against you although people have done that and matched!

      Why would you keep it pending? (unless you are graduating later)

      Delete
  77. Which coaching centre in India to join to prepare for usmle?

    ReplyDelete
  78. Hello
    I am currently studying in AIIMS bathinda which was established in 2019. So, till now there is no mention of my college in the World Directory Of medical schools. SO , i will have to wait till after my internship to give step 1 or is there any way to give it in my third profs itself as I had planned?

    ReplyDelete

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