The USMLE Management Committee plans to do a comprehensive review of the USMLE Step 1 passing criteria during its December 2024 meeting.
This evaluation, part of the program’s regular operational procedures, ensures that passing standards remain aligned with the expected knowledge and skills necessary for effective medical practice and licensure.
Key Aspects of the Review Process:
- Regular Review Cycle: Passing standards for USMLE Step exams are revisited every three to four years, consistent with best practices for certification exams.
- Sources of Input:
- Recommendations from independent panels of physicians and educators involved in content-based standard-setting in late 2024.
- Surveys from stakeholders, including licensing authorities, residency directors, medical school faculty, and examinees, assessing the appropriateness of current standards.
- Trends in examinee performance and statistical data on score reliability and pass/fail outcomes.
- Timeline and Implementation: If a change in the passing standard is recommended, it will apply to all Step 1 exams taken on or after January 1, 2025.
