Introduction
Welcome to Achievable’s USMLE Step 1 course!
The USMLE Step 1 is the first of three exams in the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) series. It tests your understanding of the basic sciences, including anatomy, biochemistry, behavioral sciences, microbiology, immunology, pathology, pharmacology, and physiology. Step 1 is an important milestone on the path to medical licensure in the United States.
This course provides the tools and practice you need to prepare effectively and perform confidently on exam day.
Eligibility
To be eligible to take USMLE Step 1, you must be one of the following:
- A medical student officially enrolled in, or a graduate of, a U.S. or Canadian medical school program leading to an MD degree that’s accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME)
- A medical student officially enrolled in, or a graduate of, a U.S. medical school leading to a DO degree that’s accredited by the American Osteopathic Association (AOA)
Exam format
The USMLE Step 1 is taken in one day. It’s divided into seven 60-minute blocks and administered in one 8-hour testing session.
The number of questions per block may vary, but it won’t exceed 40. The total number of items on the full exam form won’t exceed 280.
Content outline
Test questions are classified into 18 major areas and are organized by individual organ systems:
| Topic | Range (%) |
|---|---|
| Human Development | 1-3 |
| Blood & Lymphoreticular/Immune Systems | 9-13 |
| Behavioral Health & Nervous Systems/Special Senses | 10-14 |
| Musculoskeletal, Skin & Subcutaneous Tissue | 8-12 |
| Cardiovascular System | 7-11 |
| Respiratory & Renal/Urinary Systems | 11-15 |
| Gastrointestinal System | 6-10 |
| Reproductive & Endocrine Systems | 12-16 |
| Multisystem Processes & Disorders | 8-12 |
| Biostatistics & Epidemiology/Population Health | 4-6 |
| Social Sciences: Communication and Interpersonal Skills | 6-9 |
You can find more information in the official USMLE content outline.
Tips for success
Prepare early
Build a study plan early so you can cover the full scope of material, track your progress, and identify the topics that need the most attention.
Time management
You won’t be timed in this course, but you will be on the actual exam. During practice, use a consistent approach to pacing so time management feels routine on test day.
Manage your stress
Step 1 preparation can be demanding, so plan for stress management as part of your routine. High stress can interfere with focus and decision-making, especially during practice and exams.
Final thoughts
The textbook’s wrap-up section includes more details about taking the USMLE Step 1 exam, including how to register, exam cost, and test-taking options.
This course is designed to guide you through the major components of USMLE Step 1 preparation. Achievable exam prep includes our online textbook, review questions, full-length practice exams, and videos on key topics. Work through the course in order, starting with the textbook and then moving into practice problems and exams so you can apply what you’ve learned under exam-like conditions.