USMLE Policy

It is the expectation of the faculty in the School of Medicine and a requirement for graduation that all students will successfully complete both Step 1 and Step 2 of the USMLE before graduation. Students are awarded three attempts at each step. Failure to pass the exam within the three attempts leads to automatic dismissal from the MD Degree curriculum. (see section 3.3 of the Policy on Academic and Professional Standards governing the MD Degree) Students must post a passing score within one year of the first failure on any Step of the USMLE in order to remain enrolled in the MD degree curriculum.

Passing Step 1 is also required for continuation into the third year of the curriculum. Students failing to post a passing score on Step 1 will be placed on administrative leave of absence by the School.

Progression of a student's USMLE testing is reported on the official West Virginia University transcript by issuing a grade through registration in courses designed for board preparation. A failing score on the USMLE will be recorded as a grade of "U" or Unsatisfactory on the transcript.

The School does not officially endorse any single preparation program. The Office of Student Services will however assist students in developing a study strategy that best fits their needs. This may include a commercially available board preparation program.

Please note that students are required to have taken Step 1 USMLE prior to the start of the third year of the curriculum. A passing score is required to remain in the third year of the curriculum.

Please note that students are required to have taken Step 2 CK and CS USMLE for the first time no later than December 31st for those students planning on a May graduation, not later than January 15^th for a June graduation,  no later than March 15th for an August graduation, and no later than July 15th for a December graduation.

Implemented August 1999, Committee on Academic and Professional Standards

Revised July 2003
Revised July 2005