What is the USMLE?
The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) is a three-step exam that medical students and graduates must clear to get a license to practice medicine in the U.S.
Unlike regular university exams, this isn’t just about memorising facts. The USMLE tests your ability to apply knowledge in clinical settings, making sure you’re truly ready to treat patients safely and effectively.
USMLE Eligibility Criteria (2025)
Here’s who can take the USMLE:
For international medical graduates (IMGs):
- You must be enrolled in or a graduate of a medical school listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS).
- Your school must meet ECFMG certification requirements.
- You must also meet any additional criteria set by the ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates).
Also Read: USMLE VS PLAB
USMLE Step-Wise Syllabus Overview
Step 1 Syllabus
| System | Range, % |
| Pathology | 45-55 |
| Physiology | 30-40 |
| Pharmacology | 10-20 |
| Biochemistry & Nutrition | 5-15 |
| Microbiology | 10–20 |
| Immunology | 5–15 |
| Gross Anatomy & Embryology | 10-20 |
| Histology & Cell Biology | 5-15 |
| Behavioral Sciences | 10-15 |
| Genetics | 5–10 |
Step 2 Syllabus
| Competency | Range, % |
| Medicine | 55–65 |
| Surgery | 20–30 |
| Obstetrics & Gynecology | 10–20 |
| Psychiatry | 10–15 |
| Pediatrics | 17–27 |
Step 3 Syllabus
Step 3 Foundations of Independent Practice (Day 1)
| Competency | Range, % |
| Medical Knowledge: Applying Foundational Science Concepts | 11–12 |
| Patient Care: Diagnosis | 33–36 |
| History/Physical Exam | 5–9 |
| Laboratory/Diagnostic Studies | 9–12 |
| Diagnosis | 6–10 |
| Prognosis/Outcome | 8–11 |
| Patient Care: Management | 32–35 |
| Health Maintenance/Disease Prevention | 6–11 |
| Pharmacotherapy | 9–13 |
| Clinical Interventions | 5–9 |
| Mixed Management | 6–11 |
| Practice-based Learning & Improvement | 11–13 |
| Communication / Professionalism / Systems-based Practice & Patient Safety | 7–9 |
Step 3 Advanced Clinical Medicine (Day 2)
| Competency | Range, % |
| Medical Knowledge: Applying Foundational Science Concepts | 11–12 |
| Patient Care: Diagnosis | 33–36 |
| History/Physical Exam | 5–9 |
| Laboratory/Diagnostic Studies | 9–12 |
| Diagnosis | 6–10 |
| Prognosis/Outcome | 8–11 |
| Patient Care: Management | 32–35 |
| Health Maintenance/Disease Prevention | 6–11 |
| Pharmacotherapy | 9–13 |
| Clinical Interventions | 5–9 |
| Mixed Management | 6–11 |
| Practice-based Learning & Improvement | 11–13 |
| Communication and Professionalism | 7–9 |
How to Apply for the USMLE (For IMGs)
Here’s what your application journey looks like:
1. Create a USMLE/ECFMG ID
- Go to the ECFMG website
- Register via Interactive Web Applications (IWA)
- Get your ECFMG ID
2. Submit Online Application via IWA
- Fill out details about your personal info, medical school, and graduation
- Upload required documents
- Pay the fee
3. Schedule the Exam via Prometric
- Once your application is approved, you’ll get a scheduling permit
- Use it to choose your test date and center via Prometric
That’s it, you’re booked! If you need help with the application process, you can reach out to us!
USMLE Exam Fees for Indian Students
The USMLE isn’t cheap, so budgeting matters.
Here’s a quick idea of the USMLE exam fees for Indian students:
| Exam/Service | Total Cost (USD) | Approximate Cost (INR) |
| Step 1 | $1,225 | ₹1,02,300 |
| Step 2 | $1,250 | ₹1,04,400 |
| Step 3 | $935 | ₹78,000 |
| ECFMG Certification | $160 | ₹13,300 |
| OET | $400–$500 | ₹33,000–₹41,500 |
Additional document fees may apply depending on your medical school. Also the travel to the US and preparation costs.
Best Preparation Resources for the USMLE
Preparing for the USMLE can feel scary, but having the best resources for the USMLE exam will make things simpler. Here’s a quick list of popular and effective study tools you can rely on:
1. First Aid for the USMLE Step 1
2. UWorld Question Bank
3. NBME Practice Exams
4. Kaplan USMLE Prep
5. Online Video Lectures
6. Anki Flashcards
Need everything in one place? You might want to consider a USMLE preparation course online.
Why Choose Academically’s USMLE Preparation Course?
While all these resources are great, combining them without a structured plan can be tough. That’s where Academically’s USMLE preparation course stands out.
If you’re looking for USMLE coaching for international students, this is it.
Here’s why this course is considered one of the best investments for your USMLE journey:
- 16 weeks of intensive live online training, get focused, expert-led sessions that cover everything step-by-step.
- Over 100 hours of live classes that allow you to interact, ask questions, and clarify doubts in real time.
- 1000+ recall questions specially designed for written assessments, helping you build confidence and speed.
- One-on-one personalised coaching to help you ace residency interviews.
- AI-based mock tests that adapt to your strengths and weaknesses, giving you realistic exam practice and detailed performance analytics.
This is more than just a USMLE preparation course online, it’s a complete support system for IMGs aiming high.
Also Read: Things To Know Before Taking The USMLE Exam
Final Thoughts
Becoming a registered doctor in the USA is a dream for many. To make this dream a success, IMGs have to clear the USMLE. The process may seem long, but it's totally worth it.
All you need to do is start from the basics, go step by step and success is yours
If you are still feeling confused about USMLE and want to talk to our expert, you can do it by filling out this form.