gap between step 2 and step 3

[Dr34566]

What's the longest gap you can have between step 2 and step 3?

 

[Winged Scapula]

As long as you want barring:

its not more than 7 years from Step 1 to Step 3

and your residency program does not require you to take Step 3 at a certain time (ie, before your 2nd year)

 

[gutonc]

As long as you want barring:

its not more than 7 years from Step 1 to Step 3

and your residency program does not require you to take Step 3 at a certain time (ie, before your 2nd year)

There are a few states that don't require this but in general, it's the case. You can get an exception for advanced degrees (PhD, MPH or MBA done w/ your MD) w/o too much hassle. You can get exceptions in other cases too but you usually have to jump through more hoops.

 

[plastikosmd]

i waited about 5 years...just short of the 7 year cut-off...after 3 yrs of general and 2 of plastic...i dont recommend waiting that long, i had to open a book and study. it would have been a breeze if i took it just after 4th yr med school.

 

[Dr34566]

Can you take it before your intern year?

If so, is there a maximum gap between USMLE step 3 and your intern year?

 

[ekydrd]

Can you take it before your intern year?

If so, is there a maximum gap between USMLE step 3 and your intern year?

In order to take step 3 you have to have graduated from med school so unless there is a big break between graduation and starting residency it is probably better to just take it during intern year, but you can take it prior to starting residency.