Practice Exams
USMLE Passing Scores: Step 1, Step 2 CK and Step 3
The current minimum passing standard for each Step, when it changed, and what it means for your practice exam targets.
· 4 min read · IvyMed
The short version
- Step 1 is reported as pass or fail (since January 26, 2022)
- Step 2 CK passing standard: 218, for exams on or after July 1, 2025 (it was 214)
- Step 3 passing standard: 200, for exams on or after January 1, 2024
- The USMLE reviews these standards and can change them, so check usmle.org before you test
Step 1: pass or fail
Step 1 results have been reported only as pass or fail since January 26, 2022. There is no three-digit Step 1 score any more, so the goal of Step 1 prep is to be safely past the passing standard, not to chase a number.
Your NBME practice reports show an estimated probability of passing and an equated percent correct. Those are the numbers to watch.
Step 2 CK: 218
The Step 2 CK minimum passing score is 218 for exams taken on or after July 1, 2025. Before that it was 214. Step 2 CK is still scored on the three-digit scale, and residency programs see your number, so most students aim well above passing.
Step 3: 200
The Step 3 minimum passing score is 200 for exams on or after January 1, 2024. Step 3 is two days and includes the computer-based case simulations (CCS), so plan practice for both the multiple-choice questions and the cases.
Where these numbers come from
The USMLE program publishes the current passing standards on its Scores and Transcripts pages and reviews them periodically. This page is updated when they change; always confirm on usmle.org before your test date.
Questions students ask
- What is the passing score for Step 2 CK?
- 218, for exams taken on or after July 1, 2025. It was 214 before that.
- What is the passing score for Step 3?
- 200, for exams taken on or after January 1, 2024.
- What is the passing score for Step 1?
- Step 1 is reported as pass or fail only, for exams taken on or after January 26, 2022.
- Can the USMLE passing scores change?
- Yes. The USMLE reviews its passing standards periodically and can change them, so check usmle.org before you test.
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