Step 2: Clinical Knowledge Exam (CK)

Step 2CK is the second (of three) comprehensive examinations comprising the medical boards sequence.

Similar to Step 1 in its MCQ format, 2CK seeks to emulate the clinical decision-making of a first year resident intern – differential diagnostic skills and initial treatment planning are core competencies tested. 

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C - Content Resources

  • Online MedEd (OME)
  • Sketchy Medicine (Clinical Practice)
  • Divine Intervention (YouTube)
  • Kaplan: Step 2 CK
  • USMLE Rx: Step 2CK
  • Secrets... for Step 2CK
  • Review Guides (Comprehensive)
    • USMLE First Aid 2CK
    • Step Up to 2CK
    • Master the Boards (2CK)
    • Crush 2CK
  • Review Guides (Internal Medicine)
    • Step Up to Internal Medicine
    • IM Essentials (TEXT) (from MKSAP)

Live Review Options:

Q - Question Resources

A - Assessment Resources

FAQ

How long is Step 2CK (how many questions)?
Similar to Step 1, examinees have 8 hours to complete seven question blocks – each block with no more than 40 questions.

What is a passing score for Step CK and how well have UM students generally performed?
Passing score for Step 2CK is 214, and UM students have scored in the vicinity of 240 (on average).

Are there any Medical School policies I should know about regarding Step 2CK?
You are required to complete 2CK by February 1st of year 4.  Since passing 2CK is a graduation requirement, this date allows students not passing the exam on their first attempt enough time to prepare for and successfully re-take the exam in time for graduation.

What steps are needed to sit for the Step 2CK exam?

  • Students commonly begin the registration process at the end of year 3 between December and March (again, earlier for students thinking of seeking testing accommodations);
  • Start by going to your NBME account and paying your exam fee;
  • Similar to Step 1, choose a 3-month ‘eligibility window’ within which you plan to complete the exam;
  • No CIF is needed – your registration is posted for verification from the UM Medical School Registrar, Jennifer Neufeld;
  • Permit to test – once ‘verified’ by the registrar, NBME sends out a testing permit for use in scheduling a test date via the Prometric testing centers.