No change in the  number of items in test content categories on the Step 1 examination will be implemented until at least September 2020. We will announce the roll-out of these changes at least 6 weeks prior to implementation.

Prior to the pandemic, USMLE had announced plans to introduce additional questions assessing communications skills in the Step 1 exam. This change will be delayed. When it is introduced, notice will be provided well in advance of implementation.

It is important to note that communications is not a new content area for Step 1. When the change occurs, examinees can anticipate a small increase in the number of communication questions, but are not expected to be familiar with a new content area.

No change in the  number of items in test content categories on the Step 2 CK examination will be implemented until at least September 2020. We will announce the roll-out of these changes at least 6 weeks prior to implementation.

Prior to the pandemic, USMLE had announced plans to introduce additional questions assessing systems-based practice, patient safety, and legal/ethical issues, and professionalism in the Step 2 CK examination. This change will be delayed. When it is introduced, notice will be provided well in advance of implementation.

It is important to note that systems-based practice, patient safety, and legal/ethical issues, and professionalism are not a new content areas for Step 2 CK. When the change occurs, examinees can anticipate a small increase in the number of questions in these content areas, but are not expected to be familiar with a new content area.