Examination Content of Step 1
Though called Basic Medical Science component of USMLE, the format of questions in step 1 is mainly clinical and applied. Therefore it is strongly suggested that step 1 should be taken after studying medicine and other clinical subjects if you want to obtain a high score.
Step 1 includes question in the following disciplines:
-Anatomy including gross anatomy, histology, embryology and neuroanatomy
-Physiology
-Biochemistry
-Pharmacology
-Pathology including histopathology, microbiology and immunology
-Behavioral Science
-Genetics
In addition slides from histology, histopathology, radiographs and CT scans are also included.
Majority of the questions (more than 50%) are from pathology. There are usually less than 10 questions from genetics and biochemistry, but to score high one must prepare these subjects too.

Format of Step 1
It has 350 multiple choice questions divided into 7 blocks (50 questions per block). Each block has a maximum time limit of 60 minutes. Every question is followed by 5 or more choices/answers, of which only one is the correct choice/answer. Step 1 is a one-day exam with a total duration (including the 15 minutes tutorial at the beginning and 45 minutes of rest) of approximately 8 hours.

Recommended Books for Step 1
Click Here for a List

Applying for USMLE Step 1 and 2 and CSA

You can now apply on-line for Step 1, Step 2 and CSA. Try to apply on-line if you have access to internet and have a credit card. It is very easy, fast and safe. Otherwise you can download application material from internet by visiting
www.ecfmg.org. If you have no access to the internet, you can request a free copy directly from ECFMG on the following address:

Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates
3624 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104-2685
USA

or you can call on (215) 375-1913 or fax to (215) 387-9963 for a free copy.

FEE

Refer to current manuals from ECFMG and TOEFL.