USMLE Step 3 Live In-Person Pre Course

Feeling buried under Step 3 while juggling residency hours, work-life balance, and the stress of becoming an independent physician? We understand the unique challenges you face. Our USMLE Step 3 live in person prep course streamline your study with high-yield resources, flexible scheduling, CCS case practice, and expert support, so you can conquer Step 3 and focus on your medical career.

We know that prepping for Step 3 while juggling residency or work is no easy feat. Long hours, demanding schedules, and the pressure to perform can make it tough to find the time and energy to study effectively. USMLE Step 3 isn’t just about passing; it’s about demonstrating your readiness for independent practice and building a strong foundation for your future career.

That’s where we come in. Our live in-center Step 3 prep courses are designed to streamline your study, maximize your efficiency, and help you conquer the exam with confidence. We provide high-yield resources, flexible scheduling, and expert support, so you can balance your responsibilities while achieving your Step 3 goals.

Whether you are in the US or anywhere else in the world, our online prep courses are tailored to your needs. Access comprehensive study materials, CCS case practice, and personalized guidance anytime, anywhere. We are committed to your success on Step 3 and beyond.

Live In-Person Step 3 Prep Courses: Houston TX and Atlanta GA

Our USMLE Step 3 prep courses offer flexibility to fit your busy schedule and unique learning style. Whether you prefer immersive in-person classes or interactive online sessions, Gold USMLE Review provides expert-led preparation that ensures you are ready to tackle Step 3 with confidence.

 

Live In-Person Step 3 Prep Courses (Houston & Atlanta):

  • Intensive Learning Environment: Join us at our state-of-the-art centers in Houston and Atlanta for an in-depth, hands-on study experience. Immerse yourself in a focused atmosphere that encourages collaboration and learning.
  • Tailored Study Plans & Personalized Support: Benefit from direct interaction with expert instructors who guide you through complex topics and case simulations, providing tips and strategies to maximize your exam performance.
  • Monthly Start Dates: Like our online sessions, our in-person classes begin every Monday, so you can start preparing at a time that suits you.
  • Complimentary Lodging for Live Attendees: Stay comfortably at no additional cost during your in-person course, allowing you to focus solely on your preparation without worrying about logistics.

Course Features & Benefits:

  • High-Yield Content: Our curriculum emphasizes the essential topics and concepts you need to master for Step 3, including biostatistics, ethics, patient safety, and management.
  • Practice-Based Learning: Through interactive Q&A, mock exams, and simulated case scenarios, you will develop the skills to handle real-world clinical problems effectively.
  • Flexible Formats: Switch between live and online sessions as needed, ensuring you can maintain a consistent study routine even if your circumstances change.
  • Expert Guidance: Our instructors are seasoned professionals with years of experience in teaching and practicing medicine, ensuring you receive practical insights and reliable advice.

Ready to experience the Gold Standard?

Ready to begin your journey to passing Step 3? Call 1(866) 446-5327 or schedule a free demo via Skype at goldusmlereview007 and take advantage of our 50% discount on all Step 3 courses. With Gold USMLE Review, you’re not just preparing for an exam—you are setting the foundation for your future as an independent physician.

USMLE Step 3 Written Testimonials

I scored high on my STEP 3 . I excelled on my MCQ and CCS and improved my score substantially. I would like to strongly recommend GOLDUSMLE REVIEW FOR HELPING ME PASS MY STEP 3 exam.
The questions were extremely high yield for my exam and helped me push through the difficult blocks. The sessions were highly informative and covered all the topics necessary for the exam in an organized and succinct Manner.

Dr Hamsa Mansour
Resident Physician

I used the GOLDUSMLE FOR the 8 weeks course and it was a quick fix for my exam. Step 3 content was excellent to supplement going through practice questions when studying for Step 3, and it really helped me to go through specific topics from start to finish when I got questions on them. It also helped to see additional questions that might pop up with the various topics! The course instructors were extremely dedicated to include the most up to date information on these topics, which helps when trying to decide which resource is most correct when studying.

Dr. Frank G.
MD

I scored high on my STEP 3 . I would like to strongly recommend GOLDUSMLE REVIEW FOR HELPING ME PASS MY STEP 3 exam.
The questions were extremely high yield for my exam and helped me push through the difficult blocks. The sessions were highly informative and covered all the topics necessary for the exam in an organized and succinct Manner.

Dr Anand Krishnan
MD

I would like to strongly recommend the GOLDUSMLE 8 weeks STEP 3 program. I would like to thank everyone on the GOLDUSMLE staff for helping me through this step 3 exam. I am very happy with my score. The questions were very long but I got through it and finished each block on time. It is very difficult to wear a n95 mask the whole time, I strongly recommend bringing multiple masks that are very light. the KN95 is lighter and better.

Dr Catherine Ruth
MD

I feel thankful for this course. I did my step 2CS preparation here and later Step 3 review and interview preparation. Step 3 review was very important for me. I was tired to study alone and without motivation. With this course I learned how to pick the best answers and how to think while doing questions and I had productive hours of study. Thank you Gold!
Dr Gabriela Piazza Sassi
MD

USMLE Step 3 Video Testimonials

DR ARNIKKA RUBIA, MD

DR BEYENE GEBRESELASSIE, MD

DR JULIA RESIL, MD

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COURSE SELECTION
TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Your Path to Step 3 Success: Expert-Led Prep, Your Way

Achieving success on USMLE Step 3 is about more than just memorizing facts; it’s about mastering how to apply clinical knowledge in real-world scenarios and confidently handling patient care. Gold USMLE Review’s Step 3 prep program is designed to give you the tools, strategies, and personalized support you need to excel, regardless of your learning preferences or location.

Expert-Led Preparation with Proven Results

  • Seasoned MD Instructors: Learn from experienced physicians who know what it takes to succeed on Step 3. Our instructors bring real-world clinical insights into every session, teaching you how to navigate complex scenarios with ease.
  • 99% Success Rate: Over 25,000 students have passed their Step 3 on the first attempt with our program. We don’t just help you pass; we ensure you’re fully prepared to practice independently as a well-rounded clinician.
  • Tailored Learning Experience: Our courses are designed to match your strengths, address your weaknesses, and build your confidence. Choose from rapid review sessions to polish your skills or extended prep courses for a deeper dive into critical content areas.

A Holistic Approach to Step 3 Mastery

  1. Two-Day Exam Readiness: Step 3 is unique, assessing your ability to provide independent patient care across two challenging days. Day 1 focuses on Foundations of Independent Practice (FIP) with multiple-choice questions, while Day 2 covers Advanced Clinical Medicine (ACM) through MCQs and computer-based case simulations (CCS). Our program prepares you thoroughly for both, emphasizing critical thinking and clinical decision-making.
  2. Hands-On Practice with CCS: The CCS component of Step 3 can be intimidating if you’re unfamiliar with the format. Our courses include detailed practice with the Primum® software, giving you hands-on experience in managing case simulations, ordering tests, and providing patient care under timed conditions.
  3. Comprehensive Content Coverage: From internal medicine and surgery to biostatistics, ethics, and patient safety, our high-yield curriculum covers all the essential topics needed to succeed on the exam. We focus on integrating your knowledge across disciplines, ensuring you can make informed clinical decisions under pressure.

Prepare Your Way, On Your Schedule

  • Flexible Study Options: Whether you prefer learning in a live classroom setting or need the convenience of online sessions, we have options that fit your lifestyle. Our courses are accessible worldwide, allowing you to prepare for Step 3 no matter where you are.
  • Interactive Learning Experience: Engage with instructors and peers through interactive lectures, real-time Q&A, and group discussions. This dynamic environment helps reinforce learning and ensures that no question goes unanswered.
  • Personalized Study Plans: We analyze your strengths and areas for improvement to create a customized study plan that keeps you on track. You’ll know exactly where to focus your efforts, saving time and boosting your confidence.

USMLE Step 3 Prep Dates and Cost for Our In-Person Review Course

4 Weeks MON- FRI 5:30-11:30PM Online & Live Course

4 weeks (20 sessions)

Dec 9-Jan 3 2025

Dec 16-Jan 10 2025

Dec 23-Jan 17 2025

Jan 6-Jan 31 2025

Jan 13-Feb 7 2025

Jan 20-Feb 14 2025

Jan 27-Feb 21 2025

Feb 3-Feb 28 2025

Feb 10-Mar 7 2025

Feb 17-Mar 14 2025

Feb 24-Mar 21 2025

6 Weeks MON- FRI 5:30-11:30PM Online & Live Course

6 weeks (30 sessions)

Dec 9-Jan 17 2025

Dec 16-Jan 24 2025

Dec 23-Jan 31 2025

Jan 6-Feb 14 2025

Jan 13-Feb 21 2025

Jan 20-Feb 28 2025

Jan 27-Mar 7 2025

Feb 3-Mar 14 2025

Feb 10-Mar 21 2025

Jan 27-Mar 28 2025

Jan 27-Apr 4 2025

8 Weeks MON- FRI 5:30-11:30PM Online & Live Course

8weeks (40 sessions)

 Dec 9-Jan 31 2025

 Dec 16-Feb 7 2025

 Dec 23-Feb 14 2025

Jan 6-Feb 28 2025

 Jan 13-Mar 7 2025

 Jan 20-Mar 14 2025

 Jan 27-Mar 21 2025

 Feb 3-Mar 28 2025

 Feb 10-Apr 4 2025

 Feb 17-Apr 11 2025

 Feb 24-Apr 18 2025

16 Weeks MON- FRI 5:30-11:30PMOnline & Live Course

16weeks (80 sessions)

Dec 9-Mar 28 2025

Dec 16-Apr 4 2025

Dec 23-Apr 11 2025

Jan 6-Apr 25 2025

Jan 13-May 2 2025

Jan 20-May 9 2025

Jan 27-May 16 2025

Feb 3-May 23 2025

Feb 10-May 30 2025

Feb 17-June 6 2025

Feb 24-June 13 2025

4 WEEKS USMLE STEP 3 LIVE IN PERSON  CTR PREP INTERACTIVE 

INTERACTIVE RAPID REVIEW USMLE STEP 3 ONLINE SESSIONS
(MON-FRI 5.30PM-11:30)
Discounted to only $1899
Discounted from $3799

6 WEEKS USMLE STEP 3 LIVE IN PERSON CTR PREP INTERACTIVE

CENTER PREP IN PERSON USMLE STEP 3 SESSIONS
(MON-FRI 5.30PM-11:30)
Discounted to only $2099
Discounted from $4099

8 WEEKS USMLE STEP 3 LIVE IN PERSON CENTER PREP INTERACTIVE

INTERACTIVE USMLE STEP 3
SESSIONS
(MON-FRI 5.30PM-11:30)
Discounted to only $2250
Discounted from $4499

16 WEEKS USMLE STEP3 LIVE IN PERSON CENTER PREP INTERACTIVE 

INTERACTIVE USMLE STEP 3 ONLINE SESSIONS
(MON-FRI 5.30PM-11:30)
Discounted to only $3450
Discounted from $6900

Crush USMLE Step 3 with Our Proven Learning System

Our Step 3 prep program is built on a comprehensive, structured learning system that empowers you to master every aspect of the exam. By focusing on practical application, personalized support, and strategic test-taking skills, we ensure that you’re fully prepared to succeed on both days of the USMLE Step 3 and move confidently toward independent medical practice.

Three-Step Learning Approach for Success

  1. Foundations & Core Knowledge: Begin your prep with in-depth lectures and detailed study materials that cover essential topics across internal medicine, surgery, psychiatry, and more. We emphasize key areas like biostatistics, ethics, and patient safety, ensuring a solid understanding of foundational concepts.
  2. Practice & Application: Hone your skills with targeted practice questions, mock exams, and interactive sessions. Our program provides extensive experience with multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and hands-on practice with the Primum® computer-based case simulations (CCS), preparing you for the complexities of Day 1 and Day 2 of the exam.
  3. Refinement & Precision: Fine-tune your clinical reasoning with personalized feedback from expert instructors. Through one-on-one guidance and real-time performance tracking, we help you identify weak spots and improve your test-taking strategies, ensuring you can handle even the toughest cases under exam conditions.

Self-Assessment & Performance Tracking

  • Simulated Exam Practice: Our mock exams closely replicate the real Step 3 experience, helping you manage your time effectively and build confidence. Practice with high-yield questions and case scenarios that mirror what you’ll face on exam day.
  • Targeted Feedback: With detailed performance analytics, you’ll gain insights into your strengths and areas that need improvement. Our system guides you to focus on the topics that matter most, maximizing your study efficiency.
  • Hands-On CCS Training: The computer-based case simulations (CCS) are unique to Step 3 and require a distinct approach. We provide ample practice using Primum® software, teaching you how to navigate patient management, from diagnosis to treatment, across a variety of clinical settings.

High-Yield Content for Efficient Learning

  • Focus on Essential Topics: Our curriculum is streamlined to highlight the high-yield topics that are most frequently tested, ensuring you spend your study time wisely. We cover everything from core medical knowledge to advanced clinical management skills.
  • Interactive & Engaging: Learn through dynamic lectures, interactive Q&A sessions, and engaging discussions that make complex concepts easier to grasp. Our expert instructors use real-world scenarios to bring the material to life, helping you connect theory with practice.

Live and Online Step 3 Workshops: What to Expect

Our workshops offer in-depth coverage of Step 3 topics, with a focus on identifying and understanding key concepts that can significantly boost your test score. With several years of teaching experience, our expert faculty is dedicated to helping you perform your best on test day.

Key Features:

  • High-Yield Focus: We emphasize understanding keywords in case vignettes to improve question accuracy.
  • Hands-On CCS Training: Our workshops provide intensive training on managing CCS cases, ensuring you’re familiar with real-time scenarios and time management.
  • Personalized Study Plans: We customize study schedules to align with your test date, providing both comprehensive and rapid review options.

What We Cover: Comprehensive Subjects & Practice Exams

Our USMLE Step 3 prep courses provide thorough coverage of all the essential subjects, ensuring you’re fully prepared to excel on both the multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and computer-based case simulations (CCS). With a focus on high-yield content and hands-on practice, we equip you with the skills needed to succeed on your first attempt.

Core Subjects We Cover:

  • Internal Medicine: Deepen your understanding of acute and chronic conditions, diagnosis, and patient care management.
  • Surgery: Learn key aspects of pre-operative, operative, and post-operative care, along with emergency surgical scenarios.
  • Obstetrics & Gynecology: Cover comprehensive topics related to pregnancy, childbirth, and female reproductive health.
  • Pediatrics: Understand child development, common pediatric conditions, and preventive care for younger patients.
  • Psychiatry: Focus on diagnosing and managing mental health disorders, along with patient communication and counseling.
  • HEAVY EMPHASIS ON BIOSTATS: Master biostatistics and epidemiology, essential for interpreting research abstracts and patient data.
  • Dermatology: Learn to diagnose and manage common and complex skin conditions.
  • Hematology/Oncology: Study disorders related to the blood, lymphatic system, and cancer care.
  • Multisystem Processes: Develop integrated knowledge of diseases affecting multiple organ systems.
  • Endocrinology: Focus on disorders related to hormonal imbalances and gland function.
  • Renal: Cover conditions affecting the kidneys, urinary tract, and related systems.
  • Pulmonology: Understand respiratory system disorders, including chronic and acute conditions.
  • Immunology/Rheumatology: Study immune-related disorders and autoimmune conditions.
  • Biostats/Ethics: Emphasize ethical principles in patient care and biostatistical interpretation.
  • Pharmaceutical Advertisement & Research Abstracts: Learn to interpret scientific literature, research findings, and pharmaceutical information.
  • Physiology: Reinforce core physiological concepts across different systems.
  • Patient Care: Management & Diagnosis: Develop the ability to diagnose, manage, and provide care for a broad range of medical conditions.
  • Communication/Professionalism/Systems-based Practice & Patient Safety: Understand the importance of effective communication, professionalism, and safety in healthcare settings.
  • Behavioral Health: Focus on the management of mental health and behavioral disorders.
  • Pregnancy, Childbirth, Female Reproduction, and Breast: Comprehensive topics related to maternal health and gynecological care.
  • General Principles of Foundational Science: Revisit essential foundational sciences that underpin clinical practice.
  • Immune System, Blood & Lymphoreticular System, and Multisystem Processes/Disorders: Develop a comprehensive understanding of systemic conditions.
  • Nervous System & Special Senses: Study disorders of the nervous system, including neurodegenerative diseases and sensory conditions.
  • Skin & Subcutaneous Tissue: Diagnose and treat a variety of skin conditions, including infections and chronic skin diseases.
  • Musculoskeletal System: Learn to manage conditions related to bones, joints, and connective tissues.
  • Cardiovascular System: Gain insights into the diagnosis and management of heart and blood vessel disorders.
  • Respiratory System: Covers acute and chronic respiratory conditions, along with emergency respiratory care.
  • Gastrointestinal System: Understand disorders of the digestive tract and related systems.
  • Renal/Urinary & Male Reproductive Systems: Comprehensive study of conditions affecting the kidneys, urinary tract, and male reproductive health.
  • Endocrine System: Focus on disorders like diabetes, thyroid conditions, and other hormonal issues.
  • Biostatistics & Epidemiology/Population Health & Interpretation of the Medical Literature: Learn to apply biostatistical methods and interpret epidemiological studies.
  • Social Sciences: Communication: Strengthen skills in patient communication and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Practice & Mock Exams:

  • Comprehensive MCQ Practice: Access a vast QBank with thousands of practice questions, reflecting the real Step 3 MCQs. Each question is designed to enhance your understanding of clinical scenarios and patient management.
  • Hands-On CCS Training: Our program includes extensive practice with the Primum® software, offering realistic case simulations. You’ll learn to navigate the complexities of patient care, from diagnosis to treatment, in a variety of clinical settings.
  • Simulated Exam Conditions: Experience mock exams that replicate the real test, helping you refine your strategies, manage time effectively, and gain confidence. Our practice includes both MCQ and CCS formats, ensuring comprehensive readiness.
  • Ongoing Performance Tracking: With detailed performance analytics, you can monitor your progress, pinpoint strengths and weaknesses, and adapt your study plan to focus on what matters most.

Our combination of extensive subject coverage and rigorous practice ensures that you are ready for every challenge Step 3 presents, setting you on the path to becoming a confident, independent practitioner.

Stress-Free Step 3 Prep: High-Yield Resources & Global Accessibility

Preparing for USMLE Step 3 doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Gold USMLE Review, we make your preparation stress-free with a focus on high-yield resources, flexible learning options, and global accessibility. Our comprehensive approach ensures you’re well-prepared for both days of the exam, no matter where you are.

High-Yield Resources for Efficient Learning

  • Comprehensive Study Materials: Our expert-designed materials include detailed notes, flashcards, and illustrated guides that make complex concepts easier to understand and retain. From core clinical content to advanced case management, we’ve got you covered.
  • Interactive Video Lectures: Learn from experienced MD instructors through engaging video lessons that bring patient scenarios to life. Our lectures help you connect clinical theory with real-world applications, essential for mastering both MCQs and CCS cases.
  • Extensive QBank & CCS Practice: Get access to thousands of high-yield practice questions, along with detailed explanations to reinforce your understanding. Our CCS training uses Primum® software, offering hands-on practice with case simulations so you’re familiar with the exact format you’ll face on exam day.
  • Simulated Mock Exams: Regularly test your readiness with mock exams that replicate the real Step 3 experience. Our timed practice sessions help you develop effective strategies for managing both MCQs and the more complex CCS cases.

Global Accessibility: Study Anywhere, Anytime

  • Online Learning Platform: Join live, interactive sessions from anywhere in the world, whether you are in New York, Los Angeles, London, Sydney, or beyond. Our online courses give you the flexibility to learn on your schedule, without disrupting your daily commitments.
  • Live and On-Demand Options: Access live interactive classes or choose on-demand recorded sessions that you can review at your own pace. This flexibility makes it easy for you to balance preparation with rotations, work, or other responsibilities.
  • Personalized Support & Guidance: Reach out to our expert instructors through email, video calls, or online consultations to get personalized feedback, address concerns, and refine your study plan. We’re dedicated to helping you succeed every step of the way.
  • Stress Management & Well-Being: Preparing for Step 3 can be intense, but we ensure you’re equipped to handle the pressure. Our program includes resources to manage stress, stay focused, and maintain a balanced approach throughout your study journey.

With Gold USMLE Review, you’re not just preparing for Step 3—you are building a solid foundation for independent medical practice. Our program’s high-yield content, flexible learning options, and global reach ensure that you’re fully prepared, no matter where you are.

Interactive Learning & Comprehensive Study Resources

Our USMLE Step 3 prep program goes beyond traditional learning by providing a range of interactive classes and practical study resources. Designed to simplify complex concepts and enhance your exam preparation, our approach ensures you’re well-equipped to tackle both multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and computer-based case simulations (CCS) with confidence.

Interactive Classes with Expert Instructors

  • Engage with Experienced Teachers: Learn from seasoned USMLE instructors and practicing doctors who bring real-world insights into every session. Our classes include lectures, question-solving practices, and lab sessions to solidify your understanding.
  • Practical Tips & Strategies: At every stage of your prep, you’ll receive valuable tips and tricks to help you master the exam content, manage time effectively, and approach questions with confidence.

Comprehensive Study Notes & Review Materials

  • Concise Study Notes: Our study notes feature brief explanations, diagrams, tables, and essential tips, making it easier for you to grasp key concepts. For quick reviews, our flashcards summarize major topics, perfect for last-minute studying.
  • Organized & Accessible: Each set of notes is designed to be clear and concise, helping you focus on the most important information without feeling overwhelmed.
    Audio-Visual Learning Tools
  • Master the Primum CCS Software: The computer-based case simulations (CCS) in Step 3 require a different skill set than traditional exams. Our organized videos guide you through the Primum® software, helping you understand how cases are timed, scored, and managed.
  • Engaging Video Lessons: Our audio-visual tools simplify complex concepts by using visual explanations, making it easier for you to retain and apply your knowledge in clinical scenarios.

Practice Questions & Study Schedules

  • Step-by-Step Guidance: Our practice questions are designed to improve your ability to analyze, break down, and solve MCQs efficiently. With a focus on critical thinking, our question sets prepare you to tackle tricky clinical scenarios by practicing under exam-like conditions.
  • Study Schedules for Effective Preparation: We provide study plans tailored to your timeline, ensuring you cover all key areas and can track your progress effectively. Our guidance helps you turn weaknesses into strengths, building the confidence you need to excel on exam day.

With Gold USMLE Review’s interactive classes, comprehensive study notes, and specialized tools, you’ll have everything you need to navigate the complexities of Step 3. Our goal is to make your preparation engaging, efficient, and, most importantly, successful.

Understanding the USMLE Step 3 Exam Structure and Format

USMLE Step 3 is the final phase in the USMLE series, assessing your ability to apply clinical knowledge independently. The exam is structured into two distinct parts over two days, combining multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and computer-based case simulations (CCS).

A Two-Day Examination: FIP & ACM

Day 1: Foundations of Independent Practice (FIP)

  • Duration: Approximately 7 hours, featuring 232 MCQs divided into 6 blocks of 38-39 questions. Each block must be completed within 60 minutes.
  • Focus: This section evaluates your understanding of essential healthcare principles, including foundational sciences, biostatistics, ethics, and communication skills. It also covers patient safety and effective healthcare practices.
  • Breaks: Includes 45 minutes of break time and a 5-minute optional tutorial. Break time can be extended by finishing blocks or tutorials early.

Day 2: Advanced Clinical Medicine (ACM)

  • Duration: Approximately 9 hours, consisting of 180 MCQs divided into 6 blocks of 30 questions, followed by 13 CCS cases. Each MCQ block allows 45 minutes for completion.
  • Focus: This section assesses your ability to apply comprehensive clinical knowledge in patient care, focusing on diagnosis, prognosis, therapeutic strategies, and decision-making. It emphasizes managing evolving clinical scenarios over time.
  • Breaks: Includes a minimum of 45 minutes for breaks, along with a 7-minute CCS tutorial and an optional survey at the end of the day.

Computer-Based Case Simulations (CCS)

  • Dynamic Patient Management: The CCS component is a unique feature of Step 3, requiring you to manage simulated patient encounters. Each case involves making real-time decisions on diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing patient care, based on evolving clinical scenarios. Cases may range from acute to chronic conditions, providing a realistic assessment of your clinical reasoning skills.
  • Interface Training: Familiarity with the Primum® CCS software is essential. Our program ensures you know how to navigate the interface, place orders, review results, and efficiently manage patient scenarios. Practicing with the software will help you develop the necessary dexterity to handle cases effectively under timed conditions.

Key Components Assessed: Skills, Ethics & Patient Safety

  • Day 1 – FIP: Focuses on assessing your grasp of basic medical sciences, ethical principles, biostatistics, patient communication, and systems-based practices. You will encounter various question formats, including those based on scientific abstracts and pharmaceutical advertisements.
  • Day 2 – ACM: Emphasizes the practical application of medical knowledge, including making accurate diagnoses, formulating treatment plans, and managing patient care. This section also tests your ability to provide long-term care solutions and adapt to changing patient conditions during simulated time.

By understanding the structure and requirements of both days, you can approach Step 3 with the confidence and skills needed to excel. Our comprehensive prep program is designed to help you master these components, ensuring success on your first attempt.

How to Effectively Prepare for Step 3: Essential Tips

1. Recognize the Differences in Step 3

Step 3 differs significantly from Step 1 and Step 2 CK. The two-day format requires a unique approach:

  • Day 1: Focuses on traditional multiple-choice questions covering foundational medical concepts.
  • Day 2: Combines MCQs with CCS, emphasizing the application of knowledge to patient scenarios across a variety of settings (emergency, acute, and chronic care). Be prepared for a heavy emphasis on biostatistics, ethics, and clinical reasoning.

2. Develop a Timeline and Choose a Test Date

  • Plan Your Study Schedule: Setting a specific test date will help avoid procrastination and improve study efficiency. Identify a period with lighter workload commitments, giving you ample time to study.
  • Two-Day Testing Strategy: Decide whether to take the exam on consecutive days or with a break in between. Some candidates prefer a gap to rest and refocus, particularly before tackling the CCS cases.

3. Prioritize Practice Questions and Mock Exams

  • Use Trusted Resources: UWorld remains the go-to for high-yield MCQ practice. GOLDUSMLE also offers newer, challenging question sets that prepare you for Step 3-specific scenarios, ensuring readiness for the more complex vignettes.
  • Incorporate Self-Assessments: Make use of NBMEs and UWorld Self-Assessments to gauge your progress. While these tests don’t include CCS, they provide valuable insights into your strengths and areas needing improvement.

4. Utilize Relevant Study Materials

  • Recommended Textbooks: While no single textbook dominates Step 3 prep, resources like “First Aid for the USMLE Step 3” can be used to deepen understanding of specific topics where you need more clarity.
  • Focus on Weak Areas: Use textbooks as supplementary material for areas you struggle with, without overloading on content you already know well.

5. Master the Computer-Based Case Simulations (CCS)

  • Familiarize Yourself with the Primum® Software: Understand how the CCS component is timed, how to enter orders, and how to manage patient care in real time.
  • Practice Makes Perfect: Complete multiple practice cases using the UWorld CCS interface to develop dexterity and confidence. This ensures you’re comfortable with the software and able to make quick, effective decisions.