Medical students complete several standardized assessments throughout their training to evaluate clinical knowledge and readiness for licensure. These exams are administered at different points in the curriculum and support progression from the pre-clerkship phase through residency preparation.
This page provides an overview of the major examinations students will encounter, including NBME Subject Exams, the Comprehensive Basic Science Examination (CBSE), and the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE).
Jump to: CBSE NBME USMLE More Info
The CBSE is an NBME-administered examination designed to assess a student's readiness for USMLE Step 1.
This exam is typically administered during the pre-clerkship phase and helps students identify areas of strength and opportunities for improvement before preparing for Step 1.
Performance on the CBSE may be used by the curriculum team to guide Step 1 preparation strategies.
During the clerkship phase, students complete NBME Subject Exams at the end of each core clinical rotation. These exams assess knowledge in specific clinical disciplines and are part of the overall clerkship evaluation.
NBME Subject Exams are typically administered on the final day of the clerkship block and are coordinated through the Curriculum Office.
Examples of NBME Subject Exams include:
Family Medicine
Neurology
Psychiatry
Surgery
See the next section for testing dates.
The USMLE is a national licensing examination required for medical licensure in the United States. Medical students typically complete two steps during medical school.
Step 1
Assesses foundational science knowledge and its application to clinical practice. Step 1 is generally taken following completion of the pre-clerkship curriculum and dedicated study time.
Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK)
Assesses the application of clinical knowledge and patient care skills. Step 2 CK is usually completed during the clinical phase of the curriculum.
Students are responsible for registering for USMLE examinations through the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) and the USMLE program website.
For additional details regarding NBME examinations and testing procedures:
NBME Testing Policies
Exam-Day Expectations & Procedures
NBME Subject Exam Scheduling Information
NBME Examinee Portal Access