USMLE Step 2CK Exam
Clinical Knowledge
Minimum score to pass | 214 |
---|---|
# of questions | 370 multiple-choice questions on computer |
Duration | 9 hours |
Additional information | Step1 and Step 2CK can be taken in any order. Score is valid for 7 years. |
Test Overview
The Step 2 CK exam contains 370 questions and spans 9 hours of testing (including an hour of break time). It is administered as eight, 1-hour “blocks” of 46 questions each. You will be able to skip back and forth between test questions, but only within a particular block. Once you leave a block (or time expires for that block), you will not be able to return to the questions of that block.
Step 2 CK questions are NOT grouped by subject within a block. For example, you won’t find a section devoted to pediatrics. This random ordering of items presents you with a unique challenge. You must switch from thinking about one subject, such as surgery, to another, such as obstetrics, without skipping a beat.
In total, you will have 45-60 minutes of “break” time depending on whether you choose to complete the 15- minute tutorial at the start. You can “add” to your break time by finishing a block early. Please note, however, that finishing blocks early does not add to your total “test time,” which remains constant at 8 hours. That means that you can’t add time to one block by finishing another block ahead of time. You should take breaks only BETWEEN blocks; leaving the testing area DURING a block will be noted as a testing irregularity.
Question Formats
There are two multiple-choice formats used on Step 2 CK:
- single best answer
- single answer matching
For both formats, there are 3 to 26 answer choices (for the one best answer format, there are typically 5). Most items describe a patient and ask you to identify the underlying mechanism of the disease, propose a diagnosis, order diagnostic studies, or initiate treatment. Questions that incorporate graphic, tabular, and pictorial material are also included.
Scoring
With the new computer exam, you should receive your score back within 2 weeks of your test date. The USMLE* Step 2 CK is scored and reported on two-digit and three-digit scales. Your score report will also include a pass/fail designation, as well as a graphic depiction of your performance by discipline, physician task, and disease category.
The USMLE reviews the scoring scale and adjusts the passing standard. The minimum passing score on the Step 2 CK in 2013 is 203.
To achieve a passing score, you typically need to answer between 55% and 65% correct (it can vary based on the calculated difficulty of the exam you took as each candidate takes a different version of the exam).
Clinical Knowledge
Our USMLE Step 2CK Courses are based on a core curriculum focused on high-yield, exam-relevant topics and exam-style questions. All our courses include:
- Diagnostic exam with 150 questions and computer generated performance feedback by discipline and organ system
- Five volumes of comprehensive lecture notes covering Epidemiology, Ethics, Internal Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatrics, Psychiatry and Surgery
- Qbookwith 850 exam-style practice questions and comprehensive explanations, as well as a section covering test-taking strategies
- Six subject-based tests with explanations
- Full-length exam simulation with explanations
- Match Class. Stay on track for the Match with this virtual class designed to bring you a series of exclusive services and resources that will show you the keys to residency success.
What course is the best choise for your?
To decide what course is the best choise for your personal needs you need to think of:
How much time you have to visit our LIVE LECTURES in USA locations.
Our expert faculty members deliver high-yield, structured live lectures giving you the most relevant content and insight into the exam. This option is ideal for those who want scheduled class times and who enjoy interaction with faculty and peers.
If you are unable to travel to one of our live lecture sites, we offer CENTER-BASED COURSES called IN CENTER prep at Kaplan centers in North America. You’ll receive access to over 145 hours of Step 2CK Center video lectures allowing you the flexibility to review the material at your own pace and the ability to focus on areas in which you may need more review.
Alternatively you can enroll in ON DEMAND prep and prepare online without need to travel to USA.
Step 2 CK
In Center in New York
inclusive Live lectures
9 months
2 CK Live Online
3, 6 or 12 months access
2 CK On Demand
3 months
6 months
12 months