Subjects Covered in the USMLE Step 1

Medical Examination

The United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE) is designed to test how well you can apply

basic science to the practice of medicine. This one-day test is broken down into seven different

sections of 46 questions each. Multiple topics are covered in the USMLE Step 1 exam - here are

some subjects you should study thoroughly in order to prepare for it.

Traditional Disciplines and Interdisciplinary Areas

The USMLE Step 1 medical examination contains content related to a number of "traditionally

defined disciplines." These traditional disciplines were chosen by a panel of faculty members

and clinicians who are recognized as experts in their field. Some of the traditional disciplines

you should study include anatomy, physiology, behavioral science, pharmacology, biochemistry,

pathology, biostatistics, epidemiology and microbiology. You should also expect to answer

questions related to a number of "interdisciplinary areas" that were chosen because they are

applicable to all forms of medicine. These interdisciplinary areas are aging, genetics, nutrition,

immunology, and molecular and cell biology.

Content Varies

It's important to note that there are several different versions of the USMLE Step 1 medical

examination. Not all of the topics listed above will be present on every exam; however, the

overall content structure is nonetheless comparable from one test version to the next. As such,

you should study all of the related subjects in order to ensure that you are fully prepared, since

predicting which topics might be covered during an exam is simply not possible.

What to Know

A good number of test questions cover certain systems of the body. Approximately 60% to 70%

of test questions will deal with topics such as the immune system, musculoskeletal system,

cardiovascular system and endocrine system, among others. Around 10% to 15% of all

questions will deal will normal processes, while over half (between 55% and 60%) have to do

with abnormal processes. Between 15% and 20% of test questions will have to do with general

principles of foundation science. There will also be questions related to multisystem processes

and disorders, biostatistics and epidemiology, and social sciences.

Miscellaneous Information

A maximum of eight hours is allotted for taking this test. You are allotted one hour for each of

the seven sections, in addition to 45 minutes of break time, which you can take in between

sections as you see fit. There is also a 15-minute tutorial given prior to the actual test being

administered. You can elect to skip this tutorial and use that time for additional breaks

throughout the day. You may also obtain more break time by finishing a module earlier than

the 60-minute timeframe.

The USMLE Step 1 test is very in-depth, which is why most people elect to take practice tests in

order to help them study. Those who have already taken and passed this exam recommend

beginning to take practice exams several months in advance, increasing in intensity as test time

draws nearer. Practice tests can be an excellent way to ensure you are prepared to pass this

test, bringing you one step closer to becoming a doctor.

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exams of Canada and the United States. Our features, accuracy and expertise in question and

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Part 1, the MCCQE Part 2 and the USMLE.