Working and living in the US is a dream that many students harbor. Medical aspirants aiming to practice medicine in the US must clear the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), a crucial exam for students to get their medical license. Staying abreast of the important USMLE 2025 timelines and exam dates helps them be on track and clear this rigorous three-step exam. For USMLE, timing is key, as it ensures a smooth preparation strategy for students.
This page provides you with the latest USMLE exam dates, registration timelines, and expert tips to help achieve your dreams of becoming a licensed physician in the U.S.
Candidates worldwide take the USMLE exam to practice medicine in the USA. USMLE tests are conducted in three stages - Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 3.
Important Points:
There are no specific USMLE exam dates in 2025 to attempt the exams.
Students have to apply for the particular test stages online and schedule their dates.
The USMLE Step 1, 2, and 3 exam dates 2025-26 will depend upon the candidate's preferred test dates.
The Prometric centers administer the multiple test stages of Step 1 and Step 2 exams, whereas the Step 3 test is monitored in the USA and associated territories.
Candidates must pick a USMLE window period called the eligibility period, which can be selected at the time of applying for the USMLE test.
They can visit usmle.org or usmle.org/apply-exams to select the eligibility period for Steps 1, 2, and 3 to book their USMLE exam dates on their preferred eligibility window anytime at their convenience.
Once the eligibility period is approved, candidates can schedule their 2025 USMLE exam through the Prometric website.
USMLE Test 2025: Important Points to Consider for Booking the Tests
Step 1 USMLE Exam Dates 2025:
The USMLE Test Booking Process starts with registering for the USMLE Step 1 exam
Students studying in a medical college listed under the World Directory of Medical Schools can apply for the Step 1 exam (preferably after completing 2nd year of medical school)
Candidates can choose the USMLE Step 1 exam date by selecting the eligibility window for the test during the time of registration
They obtain a scheduling permit to select the dates for taking the test
The scheduling system on the Prometric website prometric.com/exams/usmle displays all the available exam dates
Applicants cannot book more than 6 months in advance for the USMLE 2025 exam dates
Note that applicants cannot schedule their Steps 1,2, and 3 USMLE exams on a major holiday
Step 3 USMLE test is not scheduled in the first 14 days of January.
Step 2 CK USMLE Exam Dates 2025:
The USMLE Step 2 exam can be attempted by applicants studying in their 3rd and 4th years of medical school
The exam timeline will depend on the result of the USMLE Step 1 test
Like in the first stage of the exam, in Step 2 also, there are no fixed dates to take the test
Here also, the applicants have to schedule their test within an eligibility window of three months
Step 3 USMLE Exam Dates 2025:
Like in the earlier two stages of the USMLE exam, the Step 3 test also doesn’t have any fixed dates.
However, Step 3 exams are scheduled over two days
Students can first start by choosing the 3-month eligibility window for the Step 3 exam
Candidates must note that the Step 3 USMLE exams take place in the USA. Hence, they must be careful about the dates
The windows between May – July, and November – December are regarded as busy times in the Prometric test centers in the USA. Applicants can consider it while booking the dates for Step 3
The availability of multiple international centers ensures that both U.S. medical students and international medical graduates (IMGs) have equal access to the examination, making it a global standard for medical licensure.
USMLE Exam Centers: Locations Across India
Candidates in India are required to select the India testing region while registering for their exams. This ensures a streamlined and accessible process for aspiring doctors who wish to pursue medical licensure in the United States.
With multiple centers across the country, India plays a crucial role in making the USMLE accessible to a large number of candidates from South Asia. The table below contains the USMLE exam center locations in India and their addresses:
Location in India
Exam Centre Address
Ahmedabad
Prometric Testing Pvt. Ltd., 301-302 Abhijeet II, Mitha Khali Six Roads, Ellis Bridge, Ahmedabad 380 006
Allahabad
Institute of Psychological and Educational Measurement, 119, 25-A, Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Civil Lines, Allahabad 211 001
Bangalore
Prometric Testing Pvt. Ltd., Maini Sadan, First floor, No. 38, Lavelle Road, 7th Cross Rd, Bangalore 560 001
The table below provides a comprehensive list of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK test centers around the world, highlighting the distribution of centers across various regions. The United States and Canada collectively host the largest number of centers, with additional locations available globally.
Region
Test Centers
Additional Notes
United States and Canada
345 test centers (including every U.S. state, Guam, Puerto Rico, and Virgin Islands)
Canadian provinces with test centers: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec, and Saskatchewan.
Africa
Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Uganda
Centers in Egypt should select the Middle East testing region.
Asia
Bangladesh, Malaysia, Nepal, People's Republic of China (Hong Kong is Asia region), Philippines, Singapore
Centers in India should select the India testing region.
Australia
Australia, New Zealand
China
People's Republic of China (PRC)
Hong Kong is part of the Asia testing region; other cities in PRC require China testing region.
Europe
Armenia, Croatia, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Latvia, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom
Centers in Israel should select the Europe testing region.
Indonesia
Indonesia
Japan
Japan
Latin America
Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Mexico, Peru, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela
Middle East
Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates
Centers in Israel should select the Europe testing region.
Taiwan
Taiwan
Thailand
Thailand
How to Check USMLE Exam Dates for 2025
There are no fixed dates for the USMLE exam in 2025. Instead, candidates must choose an eligibility period during registration. This is a specific time window when they can take the exam. Candidates can visit the official USMLE website and the Prometric website to book the eligibility window for Step 1,2, and 3 exams, as well as to find test centers and schedule appointments.
USMLE Rescheduling, Deadlines & Penalties
USMLE Rescheduling
If you need to reschedule your USMLE exam for any reason, follow the simple steps below:
Contact Prometric
The USMLE is conducted at Prometric test centers. Visit their website or call customer service to start the rescheduling process.
Check Rescheduling Policies
Review Prometric's rescheduling rules and fees. This will help you understand any costs or restrictions involved.
Pick a New Date
Choose a new exam date that gives you enough time to prepare and handle any issues that lead to rescheduling.
USMLE Deadlines:
There are no fixed exam dates for USMLE. Candidates select a three-month eligibility period at the time of registration to schedule their exams.
For Step 1 and Step 2 CK, they can apply via the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), especially international medical graduates well in advance to secure their preferred eligibility period.
For Step 3, they can apply through the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) after passing Steps 1 and 2 CK.
USMLE Penalties:
Timeframe Before Scheduled Test Date
Fee (All Testing Regions)
46 or more days
No Fee
31-45 days
US$ 35 (INR 3027.57)
6-30 days
US$ 100 (INR 8650.20)
5 or fewer days - United States and Canada
- Step 1: US$ 140 (INR 12110.27)
- Step 2 CK: US$ 157 (INR 13580.81)
- Step 3: US$ 279 (INR 24134.04)
5 or fewer days - Outside the US and Canada
- Step 1: US$ 358 (INR 30967.70)
- Step 2 CK: US$ 403 (INR 34860.29)
- Step 3: N/A
The above costs in INR are based on the 86.50 conversion rate and may vary with changes in the rate.
Reasons for Rescheduling or Canceling Your USMLE Exam
Some students might be required to reschedule or cancel their USMLE exam due to any unforeseen situation. Below are some common grounds for rescheduling or canceling the USMLE exam:
Personal Emergencies
Unexpected events, like a family crisis or urgent matters, can disrupt your exam plans. Rescheduling is a smart option in such cases.
Illness or Health Issues
If you are dealing with a serious medical condition, it's best to focus on your health and take the exam when you are back in health.
If you are not sure about your preparedness or feel overwhelmed, rescheduling allows you more time to study and boost your chances of success.
How to Choose the Right USMLE Exam Date: Factors to Consider
Selecting the right USMLE exam date is crucial for the success of your career in medicine in the US. Below are points to consider on how to choose the right USMLE exam date:
The Preparedness of Candidates: Consider if you are ready to take the USMLE exam. If you have completed your studies well and took practice tests.
Selection of Eligibility Period: Select your three-month eligibility window to align with your study plan and personal schedule
Consider the Schedule of your Medical College: Make sure to coordinate with your school’s curriculum and academic commitments to avoid clashes.
Maintain deadlines: Consider deadlines for applications for residency and other programs where your USMLE scores matter.
Consider Testing Center Busy Timings: Make sure to book your preferred Prometric test center well in advance to secure your desired date and location.
Health and Wellbeing: Consider your health and well-being while scheduling your USMLE exam to stay physically and mentally fit and perform your best
Rescheduling Option: Note that USMLE offers an exam rescheduling option. However, you might have to pay a penalty as mentioned above.
Travel and Visa: Since USMLE Step 3 is conducted in the USA and its territories, aspirants in India should consider visa processing and travel arrangements too.
When are the USMLE Results Declared?
Most of the test results for Steps 1, 2, and 3 of USMLE are declared within two to four weeks of appearing for the exam. However, students are advised to wait for at least eight weeks to receive a test report notification.
All the information associated with the USMLE results are published on the official website. Students are notified through email when the scores for their USMLE tests are declared on the official website of the USMLE through which the student schedules their exam for a specific Step. Candidates can access the test reports on the official USMLE website for over a year before it is removed.
How UpGrad Can Help You Take the USMLE Exam?
The USMLE exam format offers candidates the flexibility to select their USMLE exam dates for Step 1, Step 2, and Step 3, allowing them to effectively prepare for this highly competitive test. To excel in the USMLE, a structured learning platform like upGrad can be invaluable. With comprehensive study materials, mock tests, practice questions, and guidance from expert faculty, upGrad’s free online courses provide the support you need to succeed in the USMLE.
The United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates (USA) are some countries that accept USMLE.
What is USMLE?
USMLE stands for the United States Medical Licensing Examination. It is a three-step exam that physicians must pass to obtain a license to practice medicine in the United States.
How many times can you take the USMLE exam?
Candidates can take the USMLE exam three times in 12 months. If they cannot clear the exam in these three attempts, the fourth attempt must be made at least 12 months after the first attempt and at least six months after the most recent USMLE attempt.
What to expect on the day of the exam?
You are expected to arrive at the exam center well ahead of time, present a valid ID, and undergo security checks. The test is divided into multiple blocks with timedbreaks in between. Candidates can use the total break time between blocks to plan their meals, restroom visits, and mental relaxation. Make sure to submit your answers before the timer ends.
What are the eligibility criteria to apply for the USMLE exam
To be eligible for the USMLE candidates must be in one of the following categories at the time of applying for the exam.
Eligibility for Step 1 and Step 2 exam:
A medical graduate or a medical student officially enrolled in a US or Canadian medical school program from which they will come out with an MD degree accredited by the LCME, OR
A medical graduate or a student officially enrolled in, a US medical school leading to a DO degree that is accredited by the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA), OR
A medical graduate or student officially enrolled in a medical school outside the US and Canada, which is listed in the World Medical Schools Directory and which meets ECFMG eligibility requirements
Eligibility for Step 3 exam:
Passing scores on Step 1 and Step 2 CK, AND
An MD (Doctor of Medicine) degree or the DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) degree from an LCME- or COCA-accredited US or Canadian medical school
OR the equivalent of the MD degree from a medical school outside the US and Canada that is listed in the World Medical Schools Directory and which meets ECFMG eligibility requirements, And
Meet all other eligibility criteria as listed in the USMLE Bulletin of Information.
How do I reschedule my USMLE exam, and are there any fees involved?
If you haven’t attempted the exam, you can send an email to FSMB at usmle@fsmb.org to reschedule it. If you have attempted any part of the exam, you can send an email to USMLE Test Admin at testadmin@nbme.org to reschedule the next step exam. Include your full name, USMLE ID, test center location, summary of the issue, and the ticket number from Prometric, if provided in the email. Note that a fee or additional cost is involved with rescheduling a USMLE exam. However, if you reschedule 31 or more days before the test date, there is no charge.
Can I take the USMLE anytime, or are there fixed dates?
Although the USMLE exam is available all year round, you cannot take it anytime you want. For the Step 1 and Step 2 CK exams, you need to select a three-month eligibility period at the time of applying for the test. Once approved, you can schedule your exam on any available date within that period through the Prometric website. For the Step 3 exam, you must choose a specific exam date within your assigned eligibility period.
When are the USMLE exams conducted?
The USMLE exams are conducted all through the year. However, the schedule varies as per the step-wise exam you are appearing for. For example, the Step 1 and Step 2 CK exams are available year-round, except during major holidays and blackout periods when testing centers are closed. You can choose a date within your three-month eligibility period.
Step 3 exams are offered on specific dates throughout the year, with limited availability on weekends and holidays.
Are USMLE Step 1, Step 2, and Step 3 conducted on different dates?
Yes, USMLE Step 1, Step 2, and Step 3 are conducted at different times and are not on the same dates. Step 1 and Step 2 are normally scheduled during the tenure of the medical school of candidates and Step 3 is conducted after they complete their graduation.
Is there a deadline for USMLE registration for each Step?
There is no strict deadline to register for USMLE Steps 1, 2 CK, and 3. Candidates are required to select an eligibility period and ensure their application is processed by the 25th day of that period. To apply for a USMLE Step, you must apply to the appropriate registration organization. Step 1 and Step 2 CK are administered at Prometric centers, whereas Step 3 is administered only in the US and its territories.
How long does it take to get a confirmed exam date after registration?
Once a candidate completes the USMLE registration process, they receive a confirmation via email from the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) or the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) depending on the Step of the exam they are applying for. It normally takes about 2 to 3 weeks to receive your Scheduling Permit, which allows you to book your exam date through the Prometric website. After receiving the permit, you can select an available date within your chosen eligibility period.
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