What is USMLE Step 1 ?

Step 1 assesses whether you understand and can apply important concepts of the sciences basic to the practice of medicine, with special emphasis on principles and mechanisms underlying health, disease, and modes of therapy. Step 1 ensures mastery of not only the sciences that provide a foundation for the safe and competent practice of medicine in the present, but also the scientific principles required for maintenance of competence through lifelong learning. Step 1 is constructed according to an integrated content outline that organizes basic science material along two dimensions: system and process.

2009 USMLE Bulletin - Examination Content

STEP 1

Step 1 includes test items in the following content areas:

• anatomy,
• behavioral sciences,
• biochemistry,
• microbiology,
• pathology,
• pharmacology,
• physiology,
• interdisciplinary topics, such as nutrition, genetics, and aging.

Step 1 is a broadly based, integrated examination. Test items commonly require you to perform one or more of the following tasks:

• interpret graphic and tabular material,
• identify gross and microscopic pathologic and normal specimens,
• apply basic science knowledge to clinical problems.

Step 1 classifies test items along two dimensions, system and process....given below.

USMLE Step 1 Specifications*

System**

40%-50% General principles
50%-60% Individual organ systems

• hematopoietic/lymphoreticular
• nervous/special senses
• skin/connective tissue
• musculoskeletal
• respiratory
• cardiovascular
• gastrointestinal
• renal/urinary
• reproductive
• endocrine

Process

30%-50% Normal structure and function
30%-50% Abnormal processes
15%-25% Principles of therapeutics
10%-20% Psychosocial, cultural, occupational and environmental considerations

* Percentages are subject to change at any time. See the USMLE website for the most up-to-date information.
** The general principles category includes test items concerning those normal and abnormal processes that are not limited to specific organ systems. Categories for individual organ systems include test items concerning those normal and abnormal processes that are system specific.