Is you score affected by when and where you take the exam?

[hj0517]

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Hi, I was just wondering whether it is beneficial for me to take the Step in London or Philly, logic tells me that London would be better especially considering the IMG pass rate is 69% (I am a British Graduate), is there a general consensus on this?

Thanks guys, I have to say this forum has been a lifesaver! All the opinions on booklists and stuff have really helped me being an IMG!

 

[yaah]

There is no different curve. The IMG pass rate is lower because IMGs get fewer questions right (for whatever reason). If you perform the same on the test no matter where you take it, you will get the same score.

Your score is probably affected by taking the test in a site that has poor noise and temperature control, though!

 

[lord_jeebus]

I think standardized testing implies that such factors have no impact on score; otherwise there would be no validity in setting a universal pass line.

Another way to look at it is to ask why anyone would want to make a system where your test site impacts your score. What would be gained?

 

[hj0517]

OK so the distributions aren't altered, thats good to know. Thanks for replying to a somewhat moot point in hindsight!

 

[werd]

the nbme says that your score isn't even dependent on how others do the year of your test. i think they give a monkey 1 dart for every question you get right... the monkey throws the darts... your score is the monkey's dart score when all darts are thrown. all monkeys are kept in some central undisclosed location. anyway, good luck.

 

[lord_jeebus]

the nbme says that your score isn't even dependent on how others do the year of your test. i think they give a monkey 1 dart for every question you get right... the monkey throws the darts... your score is the monkey's dart score when all darts are thrown. all monkeys are kept in some central undisclosed location. anyway, good luck.

That would certainly explain the cost to take it

 

[CanIMakeIt]

That would certainly explain the cost to take it

sorry to highjack the thread ... but .....

It really is mind boggling if you think about it..... rough appx: Step 1 20,000 takers (appx 15000 US + 5000 IMG) for $500 each = $10 million/year
same for step 2 CK
and $20 million/year for Step 2 CS (20,000 * 1000)

I don't think it costs this much for administration of these tests (even including R&D) but these exams certainly are cash cows for NBME and are here to stay even if you may forget 60-70% of info within an hour of taking the darn tests......