A Scoring Guide – Kaplan Test Prep (2024)

/in USMLE /by admin

Passing the USMLE is a challenging process that starts with determining your score goals. Review what a good USMLE score is for each of the three Steps to set expectations and inform your test prep. We’ll walk you through the USMLE scoring system and show you the minimum USMLE passing scores for each Step so you understand how to read your score report. Try our free USMLE practice questions and check out our other free USMLE resources to get a better feel for where you stand before Exam Day.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

  • What does my USMLE score mean?
  • USMLE Step 1 Transition to Pass/Fail
  • USMLE 2023 Passing Scores
  • USMLE Step 1 Passing Score
  • USMLE Step 2 CK Passing Score
  • What is a good USMLE Step 2 CK Score?
  • USMLE Step 3 Passing Score
  • What is a good USMLE Step 3 score?
  • What are good USMLE scores for International Medical Graduates?
  • USMLE Pass Rates

What does my USMLE score mean?

The USMLE consists of three separate exams: Step 1, Step 2 CK (Clinical Knowledge), and Step 3. USMLE results are reported on a three-digit scale from 1 to 300 with the exception of Step 1 which recently transitioned to pass/fail. Passing the three-Step USMLE is a requirement to earn medical licensure in the United States. However, passing each Step is its own milestone and has its own benefit. Passing Step 1 of the USMLE after your second year of medical school allows you to begin practicing medicine under supervision. Passing Step 2 CK and Step 3 – and earning a good score – will make you a competitive candidate for residency programs and fellowships. Once you pass the third and final USMLE, you are eligible for a medical license.

USMLE Score Reports

You will receive a detailed USMLE Score Report two to four weeks after taking each Step. When your report is ready, you will get an email from the organization that registered you for the exam. The USMLE Step 1 has recently transitioned to pass/fail, but you will still receive a numerical score for USMLE Step 2 CK and Step 3. See an example of a USMLE Score Report so you know what to expect after completing each exam.

USMLE Step 1 Transition to Pass/Fail

As of January 26th, 2022, the USMLE Step 1 scoring system has transitioned from a three-digit numerical score to a pass/fail outcome. The hope of the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) and the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME), co-sponsors of the USMLE, is that this change will encourage residency programs to view candidates holistically and decrease the unnecessary stress placed on residency applicants. This change won’t affect residency applications for most medical students, nor does this test change require them to change their USMLE Step 1 study strategy. It does, however, affect the residency application process. With less detailed scoring information, medical schools will need to develop alternative methods of assessing the qualifications of residency applicants.

USMLE 2023 Passing Scores

The USMLE Management Committee establishes the passing scores and will recommend a pass or fail outcome on all USMLE exams. The recommended passing score for each USMLE Step is reviewed and adjusted periodically. The percentages of correctly answered items needed to pass varies from each test which is why the passing scores vary.

The current passing scores for the USMLE are listed below:

  • USMLE Step 1 Passing Score: Reported as pass/fail only
  • USMLE Step 2 CK Passing Score: 214
  • USMLE Step 3 Passing Score:198

USMLE Step 1 Passing Score

Passing the USMLE Step 1 is no small task. The first USMLE is known to be rigorous as it tests your mastery of science and science principles to ensure you can practice medicine safely and competently. Unlike the other USMLE exams, Step 1 is reported as pass/fail only, so you will not receive a numerical score. According to the USMLE program, examinees must correctly answer approximately 60 percent of items to pass each USMLE Step.

How to Study for USMLE Step 1

The USMLE Step 1 tests everything you’ve learned in your first two years of preclinical medical education. If you are just finishing up your preclinical medical courses, then you should spend 6-9 weeks of intensive study to prepare to take your USMLE Step 1 exam. If you finished your preclinical medical coursework six months or more prior to this, you should expect to spend 6-9 months preparing. Before you begin to parse through exactly how and what to study for the USMLE Step 1—like strategies for different question types or how to pick the best answers—start by developing a study plan that works for you.

[ KEEP STUDYING: How to Pass USMLE Step 1: Top 5 Tips ]

USMLE Step 2 CK Passing Score

In July 2022, the USMLE Management Committee increased the passing score for the USMLE Step 2 CK from 209 to 214. This means that examinees must earn approximately 71% of the points on Step 2 CK to achieve a passing score. Now that the USMLE Step 1 is reported as pass/fail, residency committees will look more closely at your Step 2 Score percentiles. Ultimately, your goal should not only be to pass the USMLE Step 2 CK, but to earn a good score so you can be a competitive candidate for residency programs.

What is a good USMLE Step 2 CK Score?

A good USMLE Step 2 CK score is between 240 and 260. However, what qualifies as a “good” score ultimately depends on the residency program you are applying to. If you want to match to your first-choice program, you should aim for a score at or above 256. The highest possible score for the USMLE Step 2 CK is 300, but no one has ever achieved a “perfect” score; a score around 280 would be considered a top Step 2 CK score.

USMLE Step 2 CK Score Percentiles

Learn what your USMLE score means by reviewing the score percentiles for Step 2 CK.

USMLE Step 2 CK Percentiles
USMLE ScoreStep 2 CK Percentile Rank
280-300100
27599
27096
26590
26080
25568
25054
24542
24031
23521
23014
2259
2205
2153
2102
2051
200 and below0

How to Study for USMLE Step 2 CK

Each question on the Clinical Knowledge (CK) portion of the USMLE is composed entirely of clinical scenarios describing patients. You’ll be required to answer questions about diagnoses, prognoses, indications of underlying mechanisms of disease, and next steps in medical care (including preventative measures). We recommend using a Qbank to familiarize yourself with the test and question format. Get more information on how to earn a good USMLE Step 2 CK score in our guide to the USMLE Step 2 CK.

USMLE Step 3 Passing Score

Currently, the passing score for USMLE Step 3 is 198. As the last test in the series, it’s easy to underestimate the USMLE Step 3, especially when you have less time to study. That being said, passing this final examination in the USMLE sequence leads to what you’ve been working toward for years: a license to practice medicine without supervision. Passing the USMLE Step 3 is an incredible achievement, demonstrating your medical knowledge and proficiency.

What is a good USMLE Step 3 score?

A good USMLE Step 3 score is any score above 230. While your score on Step 3 is less important than whether you pass or fail, a high score can compensate for a mediocre Step 2 CK performance. A competitive Step 3 score can also bolster your application for a fellowship.

USMLE Step 3 Score Percentiles

See how your score stacks up against the competition by reviewing USMLE Step 3 score percentiles.

USMLE Step 3 Percentiles
USMLE ScoreStep 3 Percentile Rank
265-300100
26099
25597
25093
24588
24079
23568
23055
22542
22030
21520
21012
2057
2003
1952
1901
185 and below0

How to Study for USMLE Step 3

USMLE Step 3 is a two-day exam consisting of multiple-choice questions and computer-based case simulations. It is the final assessment of physicians assuming independent responsibility for delivering medical care. You’ll be tested on patient management, lab and diagnostic skills, diagnosis, prognosis, and pathophysiology. Prepare for the exam by working your way through as many Qbanks as possible, and set yourself up for success by taking an on-demand or live online USMLE Step 3 prep course.

What are good USMLE Scores for International Medical Graduates?

What constitutes a “good” USMLE score for international medical graduates (IMGs) depends on which residency program is your top choice because some are more competitive than others. Residency programs rely on USMLE scores to help evaluate applicants. Since Step 1 transitioned to pass/fail in 2022, Step 2 scores have factored more heavily into residency program admissions.

In 2022, the average USMLE Step 2 CK score for US and non-US IMGs that matched into their preferred residency specialties were as follows:

  • Step 2 CK: US IMGs: 230; Non-US IMGs: 240

Some of the top medical specialties for which US and non-US IMGs matched had the following Step 2 CK USMLE scores:

Anesthesiology
Step 2 CK: US IMGs:240; Non-US IMGs: 243

Internal Medicine
Step 2 CK: US IMGs:235; Non-US IMGs:245

Neurology
Step 2 CK: US IMGs:235; Non-US IMGs:245

Pathology
Step 2 CK: US IMGs:228; Non-US IMGs:238

Pediatrics
Step 2: US IMGs:233; Non-US IMGs:240

A Scoring Guide – Kaplan Test Prep (2024)

FAQs

How to score Kaplan practice test book? ›

You can also score your test by entering your answers in your online Study Plan.
  1. Log into your account.
  2. Click Access Resources next to your enrollment.
  3. Navigate to the Study Plan, then click on the test name from the menu on the left.
  4. Click Start under Review or Enter/Review Your Results.

Is 2 weeks enough to study for SAT? ›

Studying for the SAT in a month is possible, though it's recommended that you spend 10 to 20 hours per week over the course of two or three months prepping for the SAT.

Is 3 months enough to study for the SAT? ›

Three months is a great amount of time to prep for the SAT. You can spread out your studying and you'll have ample time to master the concepts tested on the SAT. It can be difficult to know where to start your SAT prep. The key is finding the right resources, staying organized, and sticking to your plan.

Is one month enough to prepare for the GRE? ›

You'll be in a decent place if you give yourself 1 month to study for the GRE. However, it's not quite as much time as it sounds, so this study schedule requires about 3 hours every day, as well as one day a week you can dedicate to taking a full-length practice GRE exam.

Is 60% on Kaplan good? ›

65 is passing, over 60 is passing, and so forth. I got 62 percent on both Trainer 6 and 7.

Is Kaplan harder than actual test? ›

Kaplan Practice Scores

The general trend for Kaplan practice exams is that they are based heavily on content and may present as much more difficult than the real MCAT. Many students claim that Kaplan practice exams are not representative of the official MCAT exam.

Can I improve my SAT score by 100 points in 2 weeks? ›

You can only do so much in one week, especially if you have school, to raise your SAT score by 100 points. It's because of this why, generally speaking, you should start gearing up for the SAT at least three months before the test. Still, anything is possible, especially if you put your mind to it.

Can I improve my SAT score by 200 points in 2 weeks? ›

Even if you're already on a high score, improving your SAT scores by 200 points requires two months or even longer period of consistent studying and self-assessment. Here are some tips to improve your SAT score by 200 points: First of all, start appearing for the practice tests at least once a week.

How many hours of SAT prep do I need? ›

We recommend you spend 6–20 hours preparing for your first SAT. Make sure you reserve enough time to take at least one full-length practice test (about 4 hours if you practice the essay as well), and give yourself time to review the concepts you're struggling with.

How many hours a day should you study? ›

Most people recommend studying for 3 to 4 hours every day on a set schedule that allows your brain to work at its full capacity. You should avoid studying for more than five or six hours as this can lead to burnout and cause you to lose the information that you have learned.

Which SAT is the easiest month? ›

Myth: The March SAT is the easiest SAT test date. Fact: There's no such thing as “the easiest SAT test date.” While it's true that some versions of the SAT are easier than others, it's false that some test dates are predictably easier than others.

How long should you study for a test? ›

A general rule is to spend two hours on homework or studying for every hour that your class meets. For example, if your economics class meets for an hour, three times a week, you might expect to spend six hours a week on homework or studying for your upcoming econ exams.

How long does the average person spend studying for the GRE? ›

For the GRE, most people devote a few hours a week for a few months. As a result, the amount of time spent studying for the GRE could range anywhere from eight to 120 hours (studying ten hours a week for 12 weeks). Most people start their GRE preparation plan in 2 months.

How long should I give myself to study for the GRE? ›

By and large, the exam is a test of patterns, not facts, so if you want to raise your GRE score, you will need sufficient time to practice. We suggest you devote between 4 and 12 weeks to GRE preparation.

How many days of prep is needed for GRE? ›

So how long does it take to study for the GRE? Keeping all the points that we have mentioned in mind; the GRE preparation will take around 4 weeks to 20 weeks. If you include the mock tests that you would need to take, the preparation time can go from a minimum of 6 weeks to a maximum of 24 weeks.

What percent is passing for Kaplan? ›

What is the passing score on the Kaplan Nursing Admissions Test? The passing score on the Kaplan Nursing Admissions Test is a cumulative score of 65%. However, we recommend checking specifically with the RN or BSN program of your choice to see what their requirements are for scoring.

What is the pass rate for Kaplan? ›

Pass the First Time

First-time Kaplan bar prep students who do 75% of the assigned practice have a pass rate of 91% on the Uniform Bar Exam (UBE).

What is a good score on Kaplan? ›

A good PSAT score is a composite score of 1070 or higher, which puts you in the top 25% of all PSAT test takers.

Is Kaplan test prep worth it? ›

Kaplan is one of the oldest and most popular test prep companies for a reason. They employ highly qualified and trained tutors and have a vast library of quality practice questions. Kaplan's reputation precedes them, so you'll know your child will be getting access to high quality SAT prep resources.

What happens if you fail the Kaplan test? ›

You can retake the exam as early as 30 days after you fail. For these reasons, it should be much easier to balance your work, family, and study commitments this time around.

How close is Kaplan test to GRE? ›

Which one is more difficult, the Kaplan test or the real GRE? The Kaplan tests are quite close to the actual test in what it tests, how it tests you and the way the scoring algorithm works.

How many points can you realistically raise your SAT score? ›

A realistic goal for all students to aim for is to increase their score by at least 50 points on each section. This translates to an increase of 150 points on your composite score.

Can you raise your SAT by 150 points? ›

If you want to improve your score by over 100 points, you will need to spend 40+ hours studying to retake the test. If you want to improve your score by over 150 points, you will need to spend 80+ hours studying for your next test.

How long does the SAT take with 50% extra time? ›

For time and one-half (+50%), the SAT is 4 hours and 30 minutes of testing time, plus breaks: 98 minutes for the Reading Test. 53 minutes for the Writing and Language Test. 38 minutes for the Math Test – No Calculator.

How do I cram the night before the SAT? ›

SAT practice: THE NIGHT BEFORE THE SAT
  1. Take it Easy. There are two ways you can mess this up. ...
  2. Pack Your Bag. ...
  3. Get a Good Night's Sleep is a great SAT strategy. ...
  4. Wake Up! ...
  5. Get Your Heart Pumping. ...
  6. Eat a Healthy Breakfast. ...
  7. Stick with Your Routine. ...
  8. Leave Early.

How can I improve my SAT score in a short time frame? ›

5 Tips to Increase Your SAT Score
  1. Prepare early and effectively. First, set up your SAT Online Account. ...
  2. Practice often. Consistent test-taking practice has shown to be one of the best ways to increase your SAT scores. ...
  3. Use the practice tests. ...
  4. Take the SAT three to four times. ...
  5. Reduce your test anxiety.
Feb 16, 2023

Is 1 month enough to study for SAT? ›

Can you prep for the SAT in one month? Absolutely. A lot of students do; most will take between one and six months to prepare. If you're aiming for a top score, however, you have a lot to cover in just one month!

Is Khan Academy enough for SAT? ›

Is the Khan Academy a Good Way to Study for the SAT? Yes! Khan Academy offers personalized and interactive tools and resources for SAT study and prep. The site gives students a tailored practice plan based on their practice scores or previous scores.

What is the most effective way to study for the SAT? ›

Below, we break down nine ways to prepare for the SAT, with advice from test-prep experts.
  1. Create an SAT Study Schedule. ...
  2. Use Quality Prep Materials. ...
  3. Increase Your Reading Speed. ...
  4. Target the Mistakes You Can Control. ...
  5. Come to Test Day Prepared. ...
  6. Answer the Questions You Know First. ...
  7. Eliminate Incorrect Answers.

How many hours can a human brain study? ›

BRAIN FOCUS & CONCENTRATION FACTS & STATISTICS

The human brain is able to focus up to two hours, after which it needs a 20-30 minute break. The average American spends about 9 hours a day at work. According to the NeuroLeadership Institute, work focus equals about 6 hours a week.

Is 4 days enough to study for an exam? ›

Ideally, studying should start at least five days in advance of the exam to allow students an ample amount of time to go over course concepts and materials, and reach out to their instructor or peers if they find they have any questions.

Why am I not able to remember what I study? ›

Major memory changes don't always signal Alzheimer's disease. They can be caused by strokes, head injuries, lack of vitamins in your diet, or sleep trouble. They might even be a side effect of one of the drugs you're taking. When in doubt, see a doctor to sort it out.

Is SAT easier now than 30 years ago? ›

In many ways, the new SAT is much easier than the older version. However, this doesn't mean you shouldn't study and be prepared! While the format may be better for some students, the questions are still designed to test your ability and skills in each particular subject.

Which SAT is usually the hardest? ›

In online forums, students also tend to identify Test #3 as the hardest of the official practice tests, so there truly seems to be a clear consensus. It's important to remember though that a hard practice test can actually be a great resource!

Do colleges look at how many times you take the SAT? ›

Colleges can only see the SAT scores you choose to send them. This means that they will have no idea if you have retaken the test and how many times you took the SAT. However, you can choose to provide this information if you feel like it might actually augment your application.

Is it better to study at night or early in the morning? ›

According to the PSB Academy: "Science has indicated that learning is most effective between 10 am to 2 pm and from 4 pm to 10 pm, when the brain is in an acquisition mode. On the other hand, the least effective learning time is between 4 am and 7 am."

What is the 2 3 5 7 revision rule? ›

Revise a topic, then revisit it the next day, after three days, and after seven days. This is thought to be the perfect amount of time to help your brain remember information.

Is it better to study longer or shorter? ›

Shorter, intensive study times are more effective than drawn out studying. In fact, one of the most impactful study strategies is distributing studying over multiple sessions (Newport, 2007). Intensive study sessions can last 30 or 45-minute sessions and include active studying strategies.

Do schools see how many times you take the GRE? ›

While schools can see if you've taken the assessment more than once, it doesn't negatively impact your application. After taking the test, you have the option to report just your most recent scores or your score history for the past five years.

How many times can you take the GRE in your life? ›

There is also a lifetime max of 8 tests, and you can take the test once every 16 calendar days. Similarly, you can take the GRE once every 21 days and up to 5 times within any 12-month period. GRE scores are also valid for 5 years.

How many times can a student take the GRE? ›

You may take the GRE once every 21 days and up to 5 times in a 12-month period. The test costs $185 each time you take it. Where do I take the test? You may take the GRE at multiple testing centers across the United States*.

Is 2 months enough to prepare for GRE? ›

You can take over three to six months to prepare for the exam to get your desired scores. However, if you don't have much preparation time left, then a GRE study plan for 2 months can work for you as well, but you need to be consistent. This article will help you get started with this plan, so keep reading!

Can I study for the GRE in 2 weeks? ›

This answer depends on your goal scores and how far you are from those scores. In any case, you should not spend less than 2 weeks studying for the GRE and will likely reach diminishing returns by 6 months of studying. Ideally, you should spend somewhere from 1 month to 5 months studying.)

How many hours does it take to improve GRE score? ›

The practical answer to this commonplace question that we usually give is that hitting your target score will take somewhere between 50 and 200 hours, depending on how efficient your GRE preparation is and how many points you need for your Quant and Verbal scores to go up.

Can I prepare for GRE in one week? ›

Of course, study time throughout a couple of months or more is ideal, but one week of intense studying is better than none at all. Here we will give you tips to guide you in successfully studying for the GRE in a week.

Can I clear GRE in one month? ›

Many students find that studying for 5 days a week in three 30-minute segments, for an hour and a half each day, helps them make significant progress. Because your GRE is in a month, try to study for five 30-minute segments, or two and a half hours a day, to maximize your score gain.

Is 4 months enough to study for the GRE? ›

None of this is a bad thing. If you are good at taking tests (scored well on your SATs, AP tests, etc. in high school), you should not have to study for more than four months. Once you've thought honestly about all of those factors, you may not have an exact timeframe in mind for the GRE.

What is a good score on Kaplan NCLEX practice test? ›

Kaplan Conversion Chart NCLEX-RN
Kaplan Diagnostic Test ScoreProbability of Passing the NCLEX- RN ® ExamProbability of Passing the NCLEX- RN ® Exam
6899.3%98.6%
6799.2%98.3%
6699.1%97.9%
6598.9%97.4%
38 more rows
May 4, 2023

What score do you need to pass the Kaplan test? ›

Every school sets its own passing grade. However, most schools look for candidates who scored 65% or higher on their Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam. How many questions are on the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam?

What percentage is passing for Kaplan? ›

What is the passing score on the Kaplan Nursing Admissions Test? The passing score on the Kaplan Nursing Admissions Test is a cumulative score of 65%. However, we recommend checking specifically with the RN or BSN program of your choice to see what their requirements are for scoring.

Is Kaplan NCLEX prep harder than NCLEX? ›

However, the Kaplan CAT is generally considered to be more difficult than the NCLEX. This is because the Kaplan CAT covers a wider range of topics and has more challenging questions than the NCLEX. Therefore, if you are looking to prepare for the NCLEX, you may want to consider taking the Kaplan CAT first.

Is Kaplan harder than the actual NCLEX? ›

Yes, Kaplan is harder than NCLEX and is a bit different, but many students have reported that it is a better and more comprehensive review. Kaplan has several different pricing packages that fit different kinds of needs that the user may have.

Are all Kaplan questions passing level? ›

Yes, the Qbank is all passing level questions. If I remember correctly, the goal average for the Qbank was 68% (please correct me if I'm wrong!). The goal average for the question trainers varied though - I think the first 5 was 68% and the last 2 were 72%.

Does Kaplan help pass Nclex? ›

With high-quality video lessons, optional live classes, a prep book, and bonus resources (most of which UWorld does not offer), Kaplan offers the better overall NCLEX prep option.

How to pass NCLEX with Kaplan? ›

10 Tips to Pass the NCLEX
  1. Passing the NCLEX is a marathon, not a sprint. ...
  2. The NCLEX is a very different test from tests you've taken in the past. ...
  3. Manage the test experience. ...
  4. Create a study plan. ...
  5. Assess yourself. ...
  6. Know what kind of learner you are. ...
  7. Know the difference between NCLEX knowledge and real-world experience.
Oct 31, 2022

How many times can I take the Kaplan test? ›

Kaplan test scores are good for 2 years. Students can test twice a semester. Students will be scored using the highest Total Score.

Does Kaplan have a pass guarantee? ›

To claim the guarantee, you must meet the following eligibility criteria: Attend all class sessions live, live online or online. Up to 2 live class sessions can be made up online as directed by Kaplan. Take the Kaplan Readiness Test from your online account.

Are Kaplan exams deflated? ›

Kaplan (n=309):

The short story is – Kaplan's scores are heavily, heavily, deflated, but still have predictive power. As an extremely crude conversion, you can add 10 points to your Kaplan score to get your AAMC score. This becomes less predictive at the upper and lower extremes.

What does percentile mean on Kaplan? ›

Your percent correct score is the percent correct out of 100 and is indicative of your mastery of the test content. Percentile rankings allow you to compare your score to a national norm in order to rank yourself. Both scores should, at a minimum, be at or above the 50th percentile.

How many questions are on the Kaplan exam? ›

There are 91 multiple-choice questions on the exam.

How many questions does Kaplan have? ›

3,300+ exam-like questions. 70 hours of online, interactive videos with over 490 additional questions. Test-like Interface. In-depth answer explanations, test taking strategies, & a structured study plan keeps you on track.

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