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<p>Here are some resources and tips for Step 2 CK and Step 2 CS exam preparation. Attend a Step 2 Information Session A Step 2 information session will take place on March 22nd from 11 am – 12 pm in MS B26 on the Indianapolis campus.  More details on live streaming to come!   How do I start creating a test plan?  Contact [&hellip;]</p>

An MS3’s Guide to Tackling Step 2 

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Student studying and smiling

Here are some resources and tips for Step 2 CK and Step 2 CS exam preparation.

Attend a Step 2 Information Session
A Step 2 information session will take place on March 22nd from 11 am – 12 pm in MS B26 on the Indianapolis campus.  More details on live streaming to come!  

How do I start creating a test plan? 

  • Contact your Lead Advisor to develop an individualized test plan.  

When should I schedule my Step 2 exams? 

  • Exam slots fill up quickly, especially for the CS exam, so we recommend scheduling as soon as possible but no later than May 31, 2018. 

Why should I schedule by May 31? 

  • We want you to have the best options for location and scheduling of your exams.  
  • Fewer than 15% of testing appointments will be available by May 2018, the earlier you schedule, the more options you’ll have.  

When should I take my Step 2 exams? 

  • We recommend taking your exams prior to July 14, 2018 for CS and mid-August for CK.  This will ensure you have scores by the ERAS upload date of September 15, 2018. 
  • The school deadline for taking your exams is Nov. 1, 2018. 
  • More residency programs report using Step 2 scores to make interview decisions, so taking your exams earlier can improve your application.
  • Many students report that taking the exam closer to the end of their MS3 clerkships, while the knowledge is still fresh, improved their performance on the exams 

How do I prepare for the Step 2 exams?
Taking advantage of the online practice materials from USMLE is a crucial part of your Step 2 CK and CS preparation plan! 

  • Step 2 CK 
    • Practice exam: Your lead advisor will be sending you a Step 2 CK practice exam voucher after Jan. 2018. This exam is a helpful way to identify any areas you should emphasize studying, so we recommend taking the exam two months prior to your scheduled Step 2 CK.  
    • CK study tips 
  • Step 2 CS 

Other important test notes 

  • Save a copy of your score – IU School of Medicine can’t provide a copy. 
  • When registering, choose “015010 – Indiana University School of Medicine”.  
  • MS3 financial aid includes resources to pay for Step 2 CK and CS. 
  • We recommend completing of ALL MS3 clerkships before taking your Step 2 exams.  
The views expressed in this content represent the perspective and opinions of the author and may or may not represent the position of Indiana University School of Medicine.
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IU School of Medicine

With more than 60 academic departments and specialty divisions across nine campuses and strong clinical partnerships with Indiana’s most advanced hospitals and physician networks, Indiana University School of Medicine is continuously advancing its mission to prepare healers and transform health in Indiana and throughout the world.