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Live 1:1 Online Tutoring · USMLE Step 2 CK

Score Higher on USMLE Step 2 CK — And Match the Residency You Deserve

With Step 1 now pass/fail, your Step 2 CK score is the most powerful number on your residency application. Expert 1-on-1 coaching, clinical vignette mastery, and a personalized study plan — built to get you to 240 and beyond.

20+   Years of proven results

4.9★   Average Google rating

500+   Students passed Step 2 CK

target

218

New minimum passing score (effective July 1, 2025)

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250

Average score for US/Canadian first-time takers

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86%

First-attempt pass rate for IMGs — tutoring narrows the gap

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240+

Score target for competitive residency applications

The New Reality for Residency Applicants

Step 2 CK Is Now Your
Most Important Number

When Step 1 became pass/fail in January 2022, the entire weight of numerical evaluation
shifted to Step 2 CK. Residency program directors now rank it as the single most
important factor in interview selection. Scoring high isn't optional — it's what
gets you the residency you worked for.

🏥


It Drives Residency Interviews

Program directors consistently list Step 2 CK scores as one of their top screening criteria. With Step 1 gone as a differentiator, your Step 2 score is often the first number they see — and act on.

📈


The Bar Just Got Higher

The minimum passing score increased from 214 to 218 as of July 2025. But passing isn't the goal — a score of 240+ is the benchmark for most competitive specialties. The average US student scores 250. You need to be in that range.

🌐


IMGs Face a Steeper Climb

International Medical Graduates pass Step 2 CK at roughly 86% on their first attempt, compared to 97–98% for US students. Strong tutoring closes this gap — and a high Step 2 score can overcome other application weaknesses.

Know Your Exam

USMLE Step 2 CK — Fast Facts

218

Minimum passing score as of July 1, 2025 (raised from 214)

318 Qs

Maximum questions across 8 blocks of up to 40 questions each

9 Hours

Total exam day (one day, computer-based at Prometric)

240+

Target score for competitive residency applications (avg US score: 250)

What Score Should You Aim For?

Passing Is Not Enough —
Know Your Target Score

Step 2 CK is scored on a scale of 1–300. Where you land on that scale directly determines which residency
programs will interview you. Here's what each score zone means for your career.

Minimum — Pass Zone

218–229


You Pass — But Barely Competitive

You meet licensure requirements, but a score in this range places you near the 3rd–8th percentile. Programs in most specialties will screen you out. This zone is a signal to extend preparation — not to test.

Good — Solid Application

230–249


Above Average — Opens Most Doors

A score in this range makes you a competitive applicant in primary care, family medicine, psychiatry, and internal medicine. Many students score here with focused preparation. Our tutors frequently move students from 220s into this zone.

Competitive — Top Programs

250–300


Strong Contender for Any Specialty

Scoring 250+ places you above average. For competitive specialties — dermatology, orthopedic surgery, radiology, plastic surgery — aim for 260+. MedSmarter tutors help targeted students build the clinical reasoning to reach this tier.

Stay Current

Key Step 2 CK Updates Every Candidate Needs to Know

The USMLE program made meaningful changes to Step 2 CK that affect scoring standards, registration, and exam delivery. MedSmarter tutors incorporate every update into your prep so you're never caught off guard on exam day.

CHANGED

Passing Score Raised to 218 (Effective July 1, 2025)

The USMLE Management Committee increased the Step 2 CK passing standard from 214 to 218 — requiring approximately 4–6 more correct answers. This applies to all examinees testing on or after July 1, 2025, including retake candidates.

NEW

Centralized Registration Under FSMB & NBME

All USMLE registration, score delivery, and customer service is now managed directly by FSMB and NBME. IMGs previously registered via ECFMG should use the new centralized USMLE portal at USMLE.org. ECFMG still handles certification — but no longer manages registration.

STABLE

Step 1 Remains Pass/Fail — Raising Step 2 CK's Value

Step 1's pass/fail format (since January 2022) is confirmed unchanged. This continues to make Step 2 CK the dominant numerical signal on residency applications. A strong Step 2 score carries more weight than ever.

STABLE

Exam Format & Content Blueprint Unchanged

Step 2 CK content, question types, total exam duration, and scoring methodology remain unchanged. The exam continues to test clinical reasoning across eight medical specialties through 318 multiple-choice clinical vignettes.

What's Tested

Step 2 CK Exam Content — Every Specialty We Cover

Step 2 CK tests your ability to apply clinical knowledge to real patient scenarios across eight core specialties. Every question is a clinical vignette — a patient case requiring you to diagnose, manage, predict outcomes, or determine next steps. MedSmarter tutors train you to crack these vignettes with speed and accuracy, covering all high-yield disciplines with an emphasis on Internal Medicine and Surgery, which together account for 75–90% of exam content.

Internal Medicine
Surgery
Pediatrics
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Psychiatry
Preventive Medicine
Emergency Medicine
Ethics & Patient Safety

📅

Best Time to Sit the Exam

US medical students typically test at the end of Year 2. IMGs apply after receiving their home country license and registering with ECFMG.

⏱️

Exam Format

280 multiple-choice questions across 7 one-hour blocks. New interface: 5-min optional tutorial (previously 15 min), with extra break time redistributed.

🌍

For International Medical Graduates

Register via the new USMLE.org portal (recently centralized). ECFMG Certification requires passing both Step 1 and Step 2 CK.

🔄

Retake Policy

Maximum 4 lifetime attempts. Mandatory 60-day wait after each failed attempt, with no more than 3 attempts in any 12-month period.

Tutoring Packages

Flexible Plans Built Around Your Timeline

Whether you're targeting a passing score or aiming for 260 in a competitive specialty, there's a package
matched to your timeline and goals. All sessions are live, 1-on-1, and
scheduled around your calendar.

2  Hours

$279/session

Trial Session — limited 1 per student

N

2-hour initial tutoring session

N

Diagnostic knowledge assessment

N

1-month platform subscription

N

Custom study plan preview

10  Hours

$199/hr

Starts at $1,990

N

10 hours of 1:1 tutoring

N

3-month platform subscription

N

Personalized study plan

N

NBME progress tracking

N

Unlimited platform Q&A

Affirm   Monthly payments   available

Most Popular

20  Hours

$189/hr

Starts at $3,780

N

20 hours of 1:1 tutoring

N

6-month platform subscription

N

Dedicated tutor + backup tutor

N

Full study plan & weekly check-ins

N

Biweekly NBME review sessions

N

Priority scheduling

Affirm   Monthly payments   available

40  Hours

$179/hr

Starts at $7,160

N

40 hours of 1:1 tutoring

N

12-month platform subscription

N

Comprehensive exam overhaul

N

Multiple exam coverage allowed

N

Monthly progress reports

N

Residency interview coaching add-on

Affirm   Monthly payments   available

Not sure which package fits? Book a free 15-min call and we'll recommend the right one for you.

Every Package Includes

Built for Pass — Not Just Prep

Everything you need to move from your baseline to your target score
in one integrated tutoring system.

👤

Dedicated 1:1 Physician Tutoring

Every session is live, private, and focused entirely on your clinical knowledge gaps — not a generic syllabus.

🏥

Clinical Vignette & Case-Based Teaching

Learn to interpret patient scenarios the way Step 2 CK demands — rapid diagnosis, correct next steps, outcome prediction.

🧘

Anxiety & Stress Management

Proven techniques for 9-hour exam-day endurance — because knowledge alone doesn't guarantee performance.

🗺️

Personalized Score-Driven Study Plan

Your tutor builds a customized roadmap based on your target score, exam date, current baseline, and high-yield gaps.

📈

Progress Tracking Dashboard

Monitor your score improvement in real-time. Your tutor adjusts your plan based on data, not guesswork.
 

👥

MedLOGs Group Study (Optional)

Join live online group sessions to reinforce clinical concepts, review cases, and stay accountable with peers.

📄

MedSmarter High-Yield PDF Notes

Concise clinical notes developed over 20+ years of teaching — focused on what actually appears on exam day.
 

🎯

Test-Taking Strategy Coaching

Master clinical reasoning, answer elimination, and time pacing across 8 blocks of high-pressure patient scenarios.

🖥️

Productivity Platform Access

Your study planner, session notes, schedule, and high-yield resources — all in one place, accessible 24/7.
 

Getting Started

From Sign-Up to Target Score in 4 Steps

No complicated onboarding. You'll be working with your tutor within
days of enrolling.

01

Free Consultation

A Senior Advisor reviews your timeline, current score, target specialty, and exam date to recommend the right package.

02

Tell Us About You

Complete a quick questionnaire on your clinical rotation background, weak specialties, and preferred learning style.

03

Meet Your Tutor

We match you with a physician tutor specialized in Step 2 CK within 2–3 business days — aligned to your goals and gaps.

04

Follow Your Plan

Launch into personalized sessions, track your score progress, and walk into exam day confident and ready to score high.

Who We Serve

Step 2 CK Tutoring for Every Student's Journey

Whether you're a fourth-year US student targeting a competitive specialty or an IMG building your
application, MedSmarter has a program designed for you.

🎓


US Medical Students (MD & DO)

Preparing during your third or fourth year, you need a tutor who ties clinical vignettes directly to what you're seeing on rotations — maximizing both your shelf exam scores and your Step 2 CK performance.

Year 3–4

Shelf Exam Prep

Score 250+

🌍


International Medical Graduates (IMGs)

For IMGs, a strong Step 2 CK score is often the most powerful tool to overcome application disadvantages. Our tutors understand the IMG residency pathway and know how to build the clinical reasoning that program directors look for.

ECFMG Pathway

Residency Match

High-Impact Score

🔄


Retakers & Score Improvers

If you scored below your target or failed Step 2 CK, a personalized tutor can identify the exact clinical reasoning gaps that kept you from your goal. Generic prep rarely fixes specialty-specific weaknesses — targeted tutoring does.

Score Plateau

Gap Analysis

Retake Strategy

Think You're Ready for Step 2 CK?

Take our free practice quiz and find out exactly where your clinical knowledge gaps are — in under 10 minutes.

Phyl Igman Headshot 2026

Phyl Igman
M.D. , INSTRUCTOR

Expert Educators

Tutors Who Don't Just Teach Clinical Medicine — They Teach You

Every MedSmarter Step 2 CK tutor is a vetted physician educator trained in our proprietary diagnostic methodology. They don't follow a script — they identify exactly which clinical specialties and reasoning patterns are holding your score back, then build a precise plan to fix them. The result is a tutor who adapts every session to you — your gaps, your pace, your target specialty.

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Practicing physicians with deep clinical knowledge across Step 2 CK specialties

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Rigorously screened for teaching ability and measurable student score outcomes

9

Trained in MedSmarter's gap-diagnosis methodology for rapid score improvement

9

Experienced with both US medical students and International Medical Graduates

9

Up-to-date on the new 218 passing standard and current clinical testing trends

9

Skilled in cognitive techniques for 9-hour exam-day endurance and anxiety management

Real Results

Students Who Scored Higher Are Talking

From first-time takers to score improvers, our tutors have guided hundreds of doctors
to the Step 2 CK score they needed to match.

  • MedSmarter is such an amazing program. I am so thankful for Dr. Shaikh and her support throughout this entire program. Not only did she help clarify confusing concepts for me,... read more

    Lacey Carper Avatar Lacey Carper
    April 2, 2021

    Medsmarter has truly been a blessing in disguise. I was completely lost in my step 1 prep, one of my friend recommended me to try Medsmarter and it was the... read more

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    April 2, 2023

    Dr. Untara has helped me pass my Step 1 after my second year and my Step 2 at the end of my third year of medical school . The testing... read more

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    September 2, 2023

    I found the MedSmarter program extremely helpful. I not only attended the Step 1 Course, but I also did the one on one tutoring with Dr Untara. Dr... read more

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    April 2, 2020

    Wonderful family environment with structured curriculum.

    IC Cowboy Avatar IC Cowboy
    April 2, 2021

    Passed step 1 and just found out I have also passed step 2, all on my first attempt thanks to Dr. Untara/MedSmarter!!! I literally couldn’t have done this without her.... read more

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    I want to thank dr. Untara and dr Hema for the incredible support and guidance throughout my USMLE journey ; the program was very thorough and they are VERY committed... read more

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    September 2, 2023

    The owner of Medsmarter brought it to my attention that someone had posted a disparaging review using my name. I used Medsmarter to prepare for USMLE Step 2 and... read more

    Dr. A. Scott Parker IV Avatar Dr. A. Scott Parker IV
    April 2, 2017

    Just finished my CK course with Medsmarter. Blessed to have met Dr.Untara Shaikh who guided me through out the course. The course here is completely focused on students. Tutor works... read more

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    April 2, 2021
  • What a blessing MedSmarter has been! I cannot voice enough how thankful I am to them for all their help with my STEP 1 studying. I was not passing NBME... read more

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    I took the Step 1 review here. The facilities, staff, and curriculum are amazing, they keep class size small and gave me 1 on 1 attention to focus on where... read more

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    April 2, 2020

    Medsmarter was a phenomenal experience. Before starting the program, I was trying to juggle several different resources and unsure how to approach studying for Step 1. Once the program started... read more

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    April 2, 2021

    I've now gone to Medsmarter for help for Step 1& 2 (CS & Ck). Passed Step 1 & CS first attempt and taking CK in a few weeks. This program... read more

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    April 2, 2019

    “I started with Medsmarter last fall after 2 failed attempts to take Step 1 in the previous year. The atmosphere in the class was more family friendly so that everyone... read more

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    April 2, 2021

    Put yourself in MedSmarter's capable hands and never look back! I struggled with Step 1 prep for 2 years before discovering MedSmarter. Dr. Untara's dedication and investment in each... read more

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    April 2, 2021

    Great study experience. Very detail oriented

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    April 2, 2023

    Dr Untara Shaikh is one of the best mentors I have ever had. Over several months of hard work, she helped me achieve my dream Step 2 score. She is... read more

    Rimsha Arshad Avatar Rimsha Arshad
    September 20, 2024
  • I'm so appreciative and grateful with Dr Untara and Med Smarter team for helping me with Step 1 prep. I was lost to prepare me for this test but they... read more

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    April 2, 2022

    Excellent, well thought out and well designed. This is a MUST-HAVE review program for anyone aspiring for USMLE.  Being a part of this program was most definitely a breath of fresh... read more

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    April 2, 2017

    I first found out about MedSmarter at an AMSA convention in Washington, DC. They had one of the most noticeable booths in the vendor's exhibit hall. I had quickly... read more

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    April 2, 2022

    Medsmarter is second to none for USMLE prep. Dr. Untara is passionate, student focused, and effective in her approach to helping students. My experience has been nothing but positive in... read more

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    January 2, 2024

    Medsmarter is a great prep program if your interested in a focused and more individualized approach to studying for your USMLE Step exams. I am a detail oriented individual... read more

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    April 2, 2017

    I did the Step 1 review program with MedSmarter Test Prep. That was the best decision I took. It was very thorough and well rounded. At the end of it... read more

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    April 2, 2020

    Thank you to the owner Don for his patience and efforts, by helping me out with Proctoring on my final exam. I will be returning to do a one... read more

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    April 2, 2020

    I would strongly recommend this course to anyone who is studying for the usmle exams. I am an American born Indian trained img and I enrolled in the 1 week... read more

    Annamalai Nadarajan Jr Avatar Annamalai Nadarajan Jr
    April 2, 2017

    I used MedSmarter for step 2 CK prep and also for my residency personal statement and interview prep. Not only did I score twelve points higher than my highest... read more

    Rameez Siddiqui Avatar Rameez Siddiqui
    April 2, 2023
  • MedSmarter is the best for preparing the USMLE Steps. It provides with live classes and personalized coaching, thus bringing in perfection in each and every student. I am deeply grateful... read more

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    April 2, 2022

    When I started the program I had been trying on my own and felt lost I didnt know where to start. Dr Untara Grounds you in a way that you... read more

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    April 2, 2021

    I highly enjoyed my experience at Medmsarter. They had fast-paced reviews, and they made sure to only emphasize the high-yield material. I also really appreciated the personalized attention and camaraderie... read more

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    April 2, 2021

    Too keep this short, I would not reccomend this as a place to prepare for your Comlex or USMLE if your goal is to pass. They are completely out the... read more

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    Before I took my USMLE step 2 CS, I thought I was not ready for the exam and I needed help. I made the right decision to take a prep... read more

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    Trusting MedSmarter was the best investment I could have ever made for myself. I always struggled with testing and after sitting for Step 1 with no formal test prep and... read more

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    Working with Dr. Untara for the preparation of my USMLE STEP 1 has been nothing but exceptional. Her commitment, professionalism and dedication were always outstanding, she guided me through the... read more

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    September 2, 2023

    I would strongly recommend this course to anyone who is studying for the usmle exams. I am an American born Indian trained img and I enrolled in the 1 week... read more

    Annamalai Nadarajan Jr Avatar Annamalai Nadarajan Jr
    April 2, 2017

    I used MedSmarter for step 2 CK prep and also for my residency personal statement and interview prep. Not only did I score twelve points higher than my highest... read more

    Rameez Siddiqui Avatar Rameez Siddiqui
    April 2, 2023

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INDEPENDENT REVIEWS & TESTIMONIALS FROM STUDENTS

We pride ourselves on building lasting relationships by being transparent and following the Golden Rule. Read what some of our previous students are saying about their experiences with MedSmarter’s instructors and programs.

What’s the Golden Rule… “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” … with honesty, integrity, hard work, and dedication. These are the core values that help shape aspiring doctors with medical skills and a good bedside manner. We aim to instill those same values in all of our students.

Common Questions

USMLE Step 2 CK — Your Questions Answered

Everything you need to know before you start preparing — with the latest scoring and format updates.

What is the passing score for USMLE Step 2 CK?

The minimum passing score is 218 as of July 1, 2025, raised from the previous standard of 214. This requires approximately 60% of questions answered correctly. However, 218 places you near the 3rd percentile of test takers. Competitive applicants should target 240 or above, with 250+ needed for most specialties and 260+ for highly competitive ones like dermatology, orthopedics, and radiology.

How long does the USMLE Step 2 CK exam take?

Step 2 CK is a one-day, 9-hour computer-based exam administered at Prometric testing centers. It consists of 8 one-hour blocks with up to 40 questions each (maximum 318 questions total). You receive one hour of break time that you control — allowing you to divide it as needed between blocks.

Why does Step 2 CK matter so much now for residency?

Since USMLE Step 1 became pass/fail in January 2022, Step 2 CK is now the primary numerical differentiator on residency applications. Residency program directors consistently rank it among the most important screening factors. A strong Step 2 CK score — particularly 250 or above — can open doors to interviews at programs that might otherwise screen you out. For IMGs, it's often the single most impactful lever on the application.

Does MedSmarter Step 2 CK tutoring work for IMGs?

Absolutely. A significant portion of our students are IMGs, and we have deep experience helping international graduates navigate the unique challenges of Step 2 CK and the residency application process. Our tutors are familiar with ECFMG certification, the centralized registration process, and how to build a score that makes IMGs competitive candidates despite application hurdles.

What is on the USMLE Step 2 CK exam?

Step 2 CK tests clinical knowledge and reasoning through 318 multiple-choice clinical vignette questions. Topics span Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Psychiatry, Preventive Medicine, Emergency Medicine, and Ethics & Patient Safety. Internal Medicine accounts for roughly 50–60% of content, and Surgery 25–30%. All questions present patient scenarios requiring diagnosis, management, or next-step decisions.

When is the best time to take USMLE Step 2 CK?

Most US medical students take Step 2 CK during their fourth year, after completing core clinical clerkships. Many now sit for the exam before September to ensure scores are available when residency applications open. IMGs should complete ECFMG certification requirements before testing. Our Senior Advisors can help you identify the optimal exam date based on your application timeline.

How long does it take to prepare for Step 2 CK?

Preparation time varies by student, but most dedicate 6–12 weeks of dedicated study. Blueprint learners average about 103 days of study. The right preparation timeline depends on your current baseline score, your target score, your exam date, and how much dedicated study time you have. A MedSmarter Senior Advisor will recommend a specific number of tutoring hours after reviewing your situation.

Can I finance my Step 2 CK tutoring?

Yes. MedSmarter offers 0% APR financing through Affirm on all tutoring packages, allowing you to start immediately and pay over time with no interest. Simply select Affirm at checkout when enrolling in a 10-, 20-, or 40-hour package. Learn more at the Affirm financing page at medsmarter.com/affirm-educational-page/.

Ready to Score Higher on USMLE Step 2 CK?
Let's Build Your Plan Today.

Book a free, no-obligation 15-minute consultation with a MedSmarter Senior Advisor. We'll review your score goal,
current baseline, and exam date — and match you with
the right tutor at no cost to you.

No commitment required · Enrollments open year-round · 0% APR financing available via Affirm