If you only take the COMLEX does that mean you are only applying to AOA positions or do allopathic positions accept COMLEX?

[SM25]

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I don't know if I want to take the USMLE so how does one go about applying to residencies with only COMLEX?

I mean I still have to do more research on how DO programs are preparing you for STEP. I'm pretty confident that top students can do well on both exams though.

 

[Goro]

Despite the Bansmack the OP got, the question is good.

There are tons of ACGME residencies that accept COMLEX only. Rule of thumb: the more prestigious the program, or the more competitive it is, the less likely they are to accept COMLEX.

 

[Isoval]

I don't know if I want to take the USMLE so how does one go about applying to residencies with only COMLEX?

I mean I still have to do more research on how DO programs are preparing you for STEP. I'm pretty confident that top students can do well on both exams though.

Many programs accept COMLEX scores, but make no mistake that you will be less competitive without a Step score.

Notwithstanding, in the 2018 match, one of our guys matched ACGME dermatology with a below-average COMLEX and no Step 1 score. This isn’t to say it’s conmon, but more to say that it happens from time to time.

 

[Synchronous]

Programs that regularly take DO's are fine with just COMLEX scores. That being said, I did have an audition rotation where one of the Faculty members admitted to me that he had no idea what my COMLEX score meant and how it compared to the USMLE. I had also taken STEP 1 so I had that score which could be directly compared to my MD colleagues, but yeah there's still some education to be done for places that may not be as familiar with it. But talk to your school if they think you should take STEP plus COMLEX. Having a good score will help, not doing so well...obviously won't.

 

[DokterMom]

Many programs accept COMLEX scores, but make no mistake that you will be less competitive without a Step score.

Notwithstanding, in the 2018 match, one of our guys matched ACGME dermatology with a below-average COMLEX and no Step 1 score. This isn’t to say it’s conmon, but more to say that it happens from time to time.

Thanks Dad!


However, if your father/mother/grandparent isn't the head of the residency program and/or have a wing of the hospital named for hi/her, don't count on it.