View Full Version : DOs applying for allopathic fellowships


itsallgood
01-30-2008, 07:05 PM
Hi all...
I have scenario I am unsure about.
I am a DO intern in an ACGME IM program.
I took the COMLEX 1, 2, 2PE and just took 3.
I also took the USMLE 1 & 2CK in med school. However I did not take the Step 2CS.

I am planning on applying for fellowship.
Does anybody know if it's necessary/advisable to take USMLE Step 3 as well to make myself a better fellowship applicant?
The problem is eligibility requirements say passing Step 2CS is required to register for Step 3 (which means another $1k and flying somewhere for the exam)

I have been told taking both sets of exams before residency helped at least get me to interview status last year.

Thanks!

aProgDirector
01-31-2008, 05:17 PM
Hi all...
I have scenario I am unsure about.
I am a DO intern in an ACGME IM program.
I took the COMLEX 1, 2, 2PE and just took 3.
I also took the USMLE 1 & 2CK in med school. However I did not take the Step 2CS.

I am planning on applying for fellowship.
Does anybody know if it's necessary/advisable to take USMLE Step 3 as well to make myself a better fellowship applicant?
The problem is eligibility requirements say passing Step 2CS is required to register for Step 3 (which means another $1k and flying somewhere for the exam)

I have been told taking both sets of exams before residency helped at least get me to interview status last year.

Thanks!

Probably not. Many fellowship candidates do not have Step 3 done when they apply anyway. Both exams helped in getting your residency, but your residency will likely be the biggest factor in your fellowship. Save your money for fellowship interviews.

milunn
01-31-2008, 05:51 PM
I am currently applying for allergy and immunology. I have taken all steps of comlex and didn't even blink at the USMLE. I am at a university program and have multiple interviews thus far. Read into it what you may. I agree with the above. Save your money....you will need it.

wanna_be_do
02-05-2008, 09:16 PM
Passing Step 3/Level 3 is mainly for purposes of licensure, in my own experience. I took COMLEX Level 1-3 and USMLE 1 and 2 only and did OK, for what that's worth.