USMLE Exam Dates 2025

The USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) is a critical three-step exam aspiring physicians must pass to practice medicine in the U.S. In 2024, the program administered about 130,000 exam sessions annually, and roughly] 63% of U.S. licensed doctors have completed at least part of the sequence.  

If you are preparing for USMLE exam dates 2025, including USMLE Step 1 exam dates, USMLE Part 1 exam dates, or USMLE Step 3 exam dates, timing matters. Unlike centralized exams, the USMLE operates year-round through eligibility windows (typically three months), and booking is available on a first-come, first-served basis through Prometric.  

Note that Step 3 is unavailable during the first two weeks of January, which can impact your residency timeline. Knowing these details gives you a planning edge and helps avoid scheduling conflicts with other milestones like ERAS. 

Explore real USMLE sample questions and boost your exam readiness with expert-curated practice material. Start preparing now!  

Are there fixed USMLE Exam Dates in 2025? 

Yes, there are no predetermined USMLE exam dates for 2025. In contrast to the old methods of entrance examination, where test takers were required to complete a single exam on a single day, the USMLE application is a year-round system that allows flexibility to the candidate within an eligibility period.  

It works this way on the Steps: 

• USMLE Step 1 Exam Dates / USMLE Part 1 Exam Dates: Exam is offered throughout the year at Prometric Testing Centers around the globe. After registration, you are given an eligibility period of three months during which you are free to book your test. Here are a few examples to illustrate this: let your window be March E-May, then you can plan your exam any day in those three months. 

• USMLE Step 2 CK: Step 2 CK, just like Step 1, is provided throughout the year and has a three-month timeframe. Because it is closely associated with residency applications, late summer and early fall are particularly in demand as a candidate tries to secure a slot before the ERAS deadline. 

• USMLE Step 3 Exam Dates: Step 3 is only available at test centers in the U.S. and has 2 days of testing. It is out of the first 14 days of January, which is a normal blackout day on an annual basis. In some cases, availability can also depend on the test center, based on other federal holidays. 

• First-come, first-served: Prometric is a USMLE exam date that is available to all. This implies that even though the exam is offered at all times, your favorite place and time may be snatched away. Reserving at least 6 months prior is highly advisable, particularly during the peak seasons such as May- July or November- December. 

Also Read: USMLE Exam Fees: For Step 1, 2 & 3  

USMLE 2025 Exam Schedule Overview 

Knowledge of the USMLE exam dates 2025 is critical in avoiding conflicts with residency or other professional deadlines and proper preparation. The examination dates depend on the Step and the exam type, and the test location.  

A breakdown of the availability, structure, and special considerations of each Step is provided below: 

Step 1 Schedule 

• Year-round availability: Candidates can schedule USMLE Step 1 exam dates any time during the year at Prometric centers worldwide. 

• Exam format: Step 1 is a single-day computer-based exam consisting of multiple-choice questions. 

• Eligibility window: Once approved, candidates receive a three-month eligibility period to select their exam date. This flexibility allows students to align the test with study readiness and other academic obligations. 

• International access: Step 1 is available for both U.S. and international candidates. Candidates outside the U.S. register through ECFMG, while U.S. students use NBME portals. 

• Booking tips: High-demand months include May–July and November–December. Booking early ensures you secure your preferred date and location. 

Step 2 CK Schedule 

• Year-round testing: Similar to Step 1, USMLE Step 2 CK exam dates are offered year-round, within a three-month eligibility window. 

• Single-day exam: Step 2 CK also consists of multiple-choice questions administered in one day. 

• Residency alignment: Step 2 CK scores are required for residency applications via ERAS. Many candidates schedule Step 2 CK to ensure scores are available before submission deadlines. 

• Booking tips: Early scheduling is recommended during peak months to avoid conflicts with Step 1 or Step 3 timelines. 

Step 3 Schedule 

• U.S.-only availability: USMLE Step 3 exam dates are available only at Prometric centers in the United States. 

• Two-day exam format: Step 3 is completed over two separate days, which must both fall within your eligibility window. The first day tests foundational knowledge, while the second focuses on clinical application. 

• Eligibility requirements: Candidates must have passed Step 1 and Step 2 CK before registering for Step 3. 

• January blackout: Step 3 is not offered during January 1–14 annually. Candidates should plan around this period to avoid delays in licensing timelines. 

• Booking advice: Due to limited slots in U.S. centers, secure your dates at least 6 months in advance for peak periods. 

Blackout Dates and Holidays 

• Federal holidays: No USMLE exams are administered on major U.S. holidays, including New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. 

• Regional closures: Prometric centers may close for local events or maintenance. Candidates should verify availability on the Prometric live calendar. 

• Planning tip: Check the Prometric portal frequently, especially if your eligibility window overlaps with a holiday or blackout period, to avoid last-minute rescheduling. 

Also Read: USMLE After PG in India: How to Apply, Timeline, and Benefits 

How to Schedule Your USMLE Exam Date in 2025 

Scheduling your USMLE exam dates 2025 is a structured process that ensures candidates can secure a preferred test slot within their eligibility window.  

Here is the step-by-step guide: 

1. Apply for Eligibility 

• U.S./Canada students: Must register through NBME (National Board of Medical Examiners) to apply for Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 3. 

• International students: Must apply via ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates) for Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 3. 

• After approval, candidates receive confirmation and instructions on the next steps. 

2. Receive Scheduling Permit 

• Once your application is approved, you are issued a scheduling permit, which defines a 3-month eligibility window. 

• The permit is mandatory; you cannot book a test date without it. 

• Make sure your personal schedule aligns with the eligibility window before proceeding to booking. 

3. Book Test Slot at Prometric 

• With the permit, candidates can schedule their exam through Prometric, choosing the date, time, and test center. 

• Availability operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Popular months (May–July, November–December) fill quickly, so early booking is crucial. 

• Use the live Prometric calendar to check real-time availability and avoid delays. 

4. Reschedule or Extend if Needed 

• If your circumstances change, rescheduling is allowed, but fees vary depending on how close to the exam date you make the change. 

• Each Step allows one eligibility extension, also with an additional fee. 

• Extensions and rescheduling must be completed through Prometric and within your eligibility window. 

Also Read: USMLE Exam Centres in India 2025 – Check Complete List of Test Locations 

USMLE Exam Fees, Extensions, and Rescheduling in 2025 

Understanding the USMLE exam fees 2025, eligibility extensions, and rescheduling policies is essential for proper planning and budgeting. Here’s a comprehensive guide: 

Registration Fees:  

Exam Step	Fee (USD)	Fee (INR)
Step 1	$680	₹60,000
Step 2 CK	$680	₹60,000
Step 3	$935	₹81,000

Eligibility Extensions:  

• Step 1 & Step 2 CK: One extension allowed per Step. 

• Fee: $100 (~₹8,700) per exam. 

• Request: Must be submitted before the original eligibility window ends. 

Rescheduling Policies 

Fees depend on how early or late you reschedule: 

Reschedule Timing	Fee (USD)	Fee (INR approx.)
46+ days before exam	$0	₹0
31–45 days before exam	$35	₹3,050
6–30 days before exam	$100	₹8,700
≤5 days before exam	$137–$345	₹11,900–₹30,000

Also check: How to Schedule Prometric USMLE

Peak Months and Best Time to Book the USMLE Exam Date 

Timing is critical when planning your USMLE exam dates 2025. Certain months experience high demand, so early booking ensures access to preferred test centers and slots. 

High-Demand Periods 

• May–July (Summer): Many students aim to finish Step 1 or Step 2 CK before the residency application season. 

• November–December (Year-End): Candidates often schedule Step 2 CK or Step 3 before the new year. 

• Impact: Slots during these months fill quickly. Late booking can limit location choices and preferred dates. 

Ideal Booking Strategy 

• Book at least 6 months in advance for high-demand months to secure your preferred test center. 

• Avoid scheduling near ERAS deadlines, especially for Step 2 CK, to allow time for score reporting. 

• Use the Prometric portal regularly to monitor live slot availability. 

Check out: USMLE Eligibility Complete Guide 

Score Release Timeline After USMLE Exam Dates 

Knowing when you’ll receive results is crucial for planning residency applications or next Steps. Here’s a breakdown for USMLE exam dates 2025: 

1. Standard Release 

• Step 1 & Step 2 CK: Scores are typically released 2–4 weeks after the exam date. 

• Step 3: Scores are usually available within 3–4 weeks. 

• This timing allows candidates to plan for residency applications, licensing, or next Step registration. 

2. Delays During Peak Periods 

• During high-demand months (May–July, November–December), processing times can extend to 6–8 weeks. 

• Factors affecting delays include volume of exams, holidays, and Prometric reporting schedules. 

3. Weekly Release Schedule 

• Scores are generally released on Wednesdays. 

• Candidates receive email notifications when results are available on the USMLE portal. 

Key Differences Between USMLE Steps for Scheduling 

Understanding the unique rules for each USMLE Step helps candidates plan efficiently and avoid scheduling conflicts. Here’s a breakdown for USMLE exam dates 2025: 

1. International vs U.S. Availability 

• Step 1 & Step 2 CK: Available at Prometric centers worldwide, making it accessible for both U.S. and international candidates. 

• Step 3: Can only be taken at U.S. Prometric centers, requiring careful planning for location and travel. 

2. Exam Day Format 

• Step 1 & Step 2 CK: Single-day exams consisting of multiple-choice questions. 

• Step 3: Two-day exam with separate testing sessions. Day 1 focuses on foundational knowledge, and Day 2 tests clinical application. 

3. Eligibility Order 

• Candidates must follow a strict sequence: 

1. Pass Step 1 

2. Pass Step 2 CK 

3. Then take Step 3 

• This order ensures readiness for each Step and aligns with licensing requirements. 

How should you prepare? Use these USMLE preparation tips and study strategies for a realistic and focused plan.  

Resources for Checking USMLE Exam Dates 2025 

Using official, trustworthy sources ensures you have accurate and up-to-date information when planning your USMLE exam dates 2025. 

Resource	Purpose	Link
USMLE Official Website	Central source for exam announcements, policies, and updated scheduling information	www.usmle.org
NBME Registration Portal	For U.S./Canada students, handles registration, eligibility verification, and scheduling permits	www.nbme.org
ECFMG	For international applicants, handles registration, eligibility verification, and international test delivery	www.ecfmg.org
Prometric	Live test availability, booking, and rescheduling for all Steps	www.prometric.com/usmle

Conclusion

You have to plan your USMLE exam dates 2025 based on availability, eligibility windows, fees, and peak periods. Step 1 and Step 2 CK are available all year round on a global basis, but Step 3 is only available in the U.S. and not during the period between January 1 and January 14. Booking early, particularly in high-demand months such as May- July and November- December, would secure the choice of test centers and prevent scheduling clashes. 

Know registration costs, rescheduling options, and time limits, and match exam dates with score release dates to keep your eye on residency applications or licensing. Confirm dates and errors by using USMLE, NBME, ECFMG, and Prometric as official resources. 

Future planning and staying up to date can help you plan your USMLE Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 3 exam dates effectively, decrease stress, and increase your likelihood of success. 

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