Welcome to Achievable’s USMLE Step 1 course!
The USMLE Step 1 is the first of three exams that make up the USMLE, a standardized exam required for medical licensure in the United States. This exam assesses a medical student’s understanding of the basic sciences, including anatomy, biochemistry, behavioral sciences, microbiology, immunology, pathology, pharmacology, and physiology, and is a crucial step towards obtaining a medical license in the United States. This course is designed with the tools and practice that you need to be confident and succeed on your exam.
To be eligible to take USMLE Step 1, you must be a medical student who is 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), or you need to be a medical student who is officially enrolled in, or a graduate of, a U.S. medical school leading to a DO degree that is accredited by the American Osteopathic Association (AOA).
The USMLE Step 1 is taken in one day. It is divided into seven 60-minute blocks and administered in one 8-hour testing session. The number of questions per block on a given examination form may vary, but will not exceed 40. The total number of items on the overall examination form will not exceed 280.
Content outline
Test questions are classified in one of 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.
Prepare early
Make sure that you develop a solid study plan early. This will allow you to build confidence and identify the topics that you need to give the most attention to.
Time management
While you are not timed in this course, you will be on the actual exam. Develop your own technique for managing time during practice so that you will have these skills ready on exam day.
Manage your stress
We understand this you are preparing for a challenging exam, but it is crucial to manage your stress. Stress and nerves can seriously hinder your practice and decision making. A positive mind set going forward can really shape your confidence.
The textbook’s wrapping-up portion contains 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 every aspect of the USMLE Step 1 exam exam. Achievable exam prep includes our online textbook, review questions, full-length practice exams, and videos on key topics. We recommend that you work through the course as prompted, starting with the textbook and continuing to practice problems and exams. Remember that practice makes perfect!