USMLE Exam Fee – Cost of Becoming a Doctor in the USA (2025 Guide)

Reviewed by

Dr. Rini Sharma
USMLE Exam Fee
Created On : Jan 15, 2024 Updated On : Jul 09, 2025 6 min read

Key Takeaways

  • Get complete USMLE exam fee breakdown in 2025 for each step
  • Total estimated cost of becoming a doctor in the USA via the USMLE route
  • Updated policies for rescheduling, refunds, and optional USMLE costs
  • Extra hidden costs candidates often overlook
  • Payment methods and pro-tips to save on forex or transaction charges
  • A comparison of US medical costs with potential future earnings

Did you know… thousands of IMGs dream of wearing that white coat and living the big American dream. USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) is your gateway to live your dream of working as a registered doctor in the States. But how much does it cost? In 2025, testing fees have updated. Exchange rates wobble all the time and digital systems are changing how you register. Your big American dream isn’t far away if you know how much money you need to have in hand to crack the USMLE. We have given a complete breakdown of fees so that you are well-equipped:

USMLE Fees in 2025: Highlights

Here’s a table of your expected costs as an international student (specially curated for Indian candidates in ₹) in 2025. Take a screenshot or just bookmark it.

Exam StepUSD FeesApprox. ₹ Fees
Step 1$885₹75,800
Step 2 CK$910₹77,900
Step 3$925₹79,200
ECFMG Certification$160₹13,280
Optional Add-Ons$200–$400₹16,600–₹33,200

USMLE Step-by-Step Cost Breakdown (2025 Updated)

Step 1: The Basic Sciences Test

  • Base Fee (2025): $680
  • International Delivery Surcharge: $205
  • New 18% GST (India): Applies on total fee
  • Total: $885 → approx. ₹75,800

Step 2: Clinical Knowledge

  • Base Fee (2025): $680
  • International Delivery Surcharge: $230
  • New 18% GST (India): Applies on total fee

Total: $910 → approx. ₹77,900

Ensure learning concepts on clinical scenarios and patient care. The assessment has real-life scenario based questions on these topics.

New in 2025: USMLE has replaced their legacy registration portal as of 10th of March’25. The process now offers a seamless navigation while creating new account and carrying out the registration steps forward.

Step 3: Final License Gateway

  • Exam Fee (2025): $925 → approx. ₹79,200
     
usmle exam fees breakdown by steps
  • Only offered in the USA or Canada—so factor in:

    • Visa costs
    • Flights
    • Accommodation

This test covers:

  • Patient management
  • Ambulatory care
  • Emergency situations

 

Mandatory step: Register with ECFMG for Certification

Ensure that you register at ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates). It is a mandatory step before going for Step 1 and Step 2 mentioned above.

Fee (2025): $160 → ₹13,280

Other related costs:

  • ERAS Token (Residency Apps): $165
  • Additional Transcripts/Score Reports: $80 per request
  • Translation of Medical Transcripts: $250 (if your documents are not in English).

Optional and Hidden Costs You Must Budget

Most students underestimate these extra charges:

ServiceUSD CostApprox. INR Cost
Eligibility Period Extension (Step 1 or 2 CK)$100₹8,300
Changing Testing Region$90₹7,470
Score Recheck$80₹6,640
Step 3 Eligibility Extension$70₹5,810
Extra Score Reports$80 each₹6,640
Courier/Document Handling$30₹2,490

USMLE Rescheduling Fees – 2025

Life happens. Here’s what it costs to change your exam:

Days Before ExamUS/Canada FeeInternational Fee (e.g. India)
46+ days$0$0
31–45 days$35$35
6–30 days$100$100
≤5 daysUp to $403Up to $403

Rescheduling Step 3 is only allowed in the USA.

 

Refunds and Forfeiture

Important:

  • USMLE fees are mostly non-refundable once you’ve registered.
  • For Steps 1 & 2 CK, you might get $50–$100 back if you cancel before scheduling.
  • Step 3 fees are not refundable at all.
  • Unused funds in your ECFMG account expire after 2 years.

Payment Methods for USMLE in 2025

Allowed Payment Modes:

  • International Credit Cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Discover)
  • Wire Transfer (slower processing)
  • E-Checks (USA bank holders only)

Not Allowed:

  • UPI
  • PayPal
  • Wallets
  • Cash payments

Pro Tip: Use an international credit card enabled for USD payments to avoid transaction failures and excessive forex charges.

How Can You Pay USMLE Fees in 2025?

Payment MethodAccepted?Notes
International Credit Cards✅ YesVisa, MasterCard, Amex, Discover allowed
Debit Cards (India-based) No/PartialOften declined due to forex rules
Wire Transfer / Bank Transfer✅ YesSlower processing (3–5 days)
E-Checks (US bank accounts only)✅ YesOnly for US residents with US bank accounts
UPI / Google Pay / Paytm❌ NoNot accepted
PayPal / Digital Wallets❌ NoNot accepted
Cash❌ NoNever accepted

✈ Other Costs: Travel, Stay, Visa

For Step 3, you must travel to the USA. Here’s an estimate:

  • Flights from India to USA and vice versa would roughly cost you: ₹90k – ₹1.5 lakh
  • Stay for 2 weeks to get used to, with the area and finding accommodation: ₹70k – ₹1.2 lakh

US Visa Fees: ~₹15,000

 


 

 

Pro Tips to Save Money on USMLE Costs

  • Give enough time before scheduling your exam. Do not schedule it hastily.
  • Always closely check the currency value because it keeps fluctuating.
  • Use one credit card to avoid multiple international transaction fees
  • Always check the ECFMG or NBME sites for the latest fees before booking
  • Consider applying for NBME’s fee assistance if you’re a US citizen or DACA student (unavailable for most international students)
  • Prepare for the licensure exam really well. Apply for the USMLE preparation course by Academically and take advantage of the self paced sessions, AI-based mock tests, community groups and more. A good coaching centre adds a lot of potential in you to ace the exam on the first attempt itself.

Is USMLE Worth It? Your ROI Explained

Absolutely, yes. USMLE is one of the best and the most preferred licensing exam. Overseas trained doctors who spend the above-mentioned fees for this exam and qualify them are guaranteed to receive double/triple ROI in their career. Not just that, the quality of life improves. You have a global recognition as a registered doctor in the USA.

Average Doctor Salaries in 2025- Based on Experience

  • Entry-Level (0–2 years): $180k – $250k/year (₹1.5–2.1 cr)
  • Mid-Level (3–7 years): $250k – $400k/year (₹2.1–3.3 cr)
  • Senior (8+ years): $400k – $700k/year+ (₹3.3–5.8 cr)

Average Doctor Salaries in 2025- Based on Specialisation/Branch

  • Neurosurgery: $750k+ (₹6.2 crores+)
  • Cardiology: $500k – $650k (₹4.1–5.4 crores)
  • Dermatology: $450k+ (₹3.7 crores+)
  • Radiology: $400k – $550k (₹3.3–4.5 cr)
  • Pediatrics (lower end): $200k – $250k (₹1.7–2.1 crores)

Average Doctor Salaries in 2025- Based on Region

  • San Francisco: $330,000+ (₹2.7 crores+)
  • Boston: $310,000+ (₹2.5 crores+)
  • New York City: $295,000+ (₹2.4 crores+)

Whether you choose general practice or specialise, the ROI far outweighs the initial cost making USMLE a truly worthwhile path for aspiring doctors.

 

To Conclude With…

As you can see, budgeting for USMLE fees is extremely important if you want to stay ahead of the curve. USA has always promised for the best ROI with not just double/triple return of your investment but a great quality of life. So plan your finances carefully…and take the next step toward your American medical dream. Budget smart, dream big!

Note: All fees and conversions are approximate and subject to changes. Always confirm current rates on official USMLE, ECFMG, and Prometric websites before making payments.

FAQs

Q- Why is USMLE more expensive for international students?

Ans- Because of international test delivery surcharges, administrative fees for credential verification, and currency exchange impacts.

Q- What is the cheapest way to pay USMLE fees from India?

Ans- Using an international credit card with low forex markup often costs less than wire transfers or third-party services. Watch the exchange rate before paying.

Q- Can I pay USMLE fees in Indian Rupees?

Ans- No. All USMLE fees must be paid in US dollars. INR figures are only for reference.

Q- Is the USMLE fee refundable if I cancel?

Ans- Not fully. You may get a partial refund ($50–$100) for Steps 1 or 2 CK if you cancel before scheduling, but Step 3 fees are non-refundable.

Q- Does the USMLE fee vary by country?

Ans- Yes. Students outside the US pay extra surcharges. For example, India adds nearly ₹17,000–₹19,000 per step over US-based candidates.

Q- What is the ECFMG certification fee for USMLE in 2025?

Ans- The ECFMG application fee is $160 (₹13,280) for international students.

Q- How much does it cost to reschedule a USMLE exam?

Ans- It ranges from $35 (₹2,900) if you reschedule 31–45 days before the test, to $358–$403 (₹29,700–₹33,400) for last-minute changes.

Q- Can I extend my USMLE eligibility period?

Ans- Yes, for Steps 1 and 2 CK, extensions cost $100 (₹8,300) per exam.

Q- Is Step 3 of USMLE available in India?

Ans- No. Step 3 can only be taken in the US or Canada. You’ll need a visa and travel arrangements.

Q- Do I have to pay USMLE fees again if I fail?

Ans- Yes. Each attempt requires paying the full fee again.

Q- Are there scholarships for USMLE fees?

Ans- Unfortunately, international students generally don’t qualify. NBME offers some assistance for US citizens and DACA students only.

Q- How do currency fluctuations affect USMLE fees?

Ans- A weak rupee means your US dollar payments cost more in INR. Timing your payment wisely can help save money.

Q- Are there hidden charges in the USMLE process?

Ans- Yes. Document translations, score reports, and additional forms can add $30–$250 per request.

Q- How long is my USMLE ECFMG fund balance valid?

Ans- Funds in your ECFMG account expire after two years if unused.

Q- What happens if I miss my USMLE exam date?

Ans- You forfeit your fee and must pay again to reapply.

Q- Can Indian debit cards be used for USMLE payments?

Ans- Usually not. Many Indian debit cards get declined for international USD transactions.

Q- How many times can I attempt USMLE?

Ans- You’re allowed up to four attempts per Step. New rules in 2025 further limit lifetime attempts.

Q- Does the USMLE fee include study materials?

Ans- No. Exam fees only cover registration. Study materials cost extra.

Q- How much extra should I budget for Step 3 travel costs?

Ans- Estimate ₹2–₹3 lakhs extra for flights, stay, and visas for Step 3.

Q- Is USMLE tougher than NEET PG?

Ans- They’re different exams. USMLE focuses more on clinical problem-solving, while NEET PG is largely theory and recall-based.

Aritro Chattopadhyay
Aritro Chattopadhyay
about the author

Aritro Chattopadhyay is a seasoned content professional, lifestyle blogger, and English language teacher with 9 years of experience. His expertise ranges from education, healthcare, food, and travel. Featured in Amar Ujala, Vistara in-flight magazine, and The Dehradun Street. Having worked with 270+ brands, he continues to fulfil his passion with words that influence thoughts, minds, and actions.

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