Question about Step 2 CK timing

[PremedBear]

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I've read the FAQ above which made it pretty clear that most neurology programs don't require step 2 when sending out interview invites, and so if you have a pretty good step 1, there's no rush to take it before september when ERAS can be submitted. However, I don't think the advice has been updated for several years so just wanted to ask recent applicants what I should do.

Basically, my step 1 is 266.
Could I take step 2 before september? Possibly, but then I'd be sacrificing time for sub-i's and collecting LORs and also I just feel a little burnt out about studying. I could probably do well (above average) but don't have high confidence I could do as relatively well or better compared to step 1. Also if I took it before September I could dedicate 2-3 weeks of free study time, whereas if I took it toward December I could dedicate 3-4 weeks, although I might be flying around for interviews.

A few professors I've talked to just said they recommend having step 2 anyways and didn't think it looked bad if you didn't do as well as you did on step 1. A neurology PGY2 friend of mine said I could just take it later (December) since programs mostly use Step 1 to screen for interviews and then consider Step 2 when ranking.

What would be the best thing to do in my situation? Thanks!

 

[typhoonegator]

Personally, I would recommend waiting and taking it later on. The score matters a little bit for some fellowships down the road, but given your step 1 score you should test well anyway. Step 2 is easier than Step 1, and taking Qbank is fun if you're not otherwise busy. If your Step 1 was low we'd be having a different conversation, but I don't see how having another score helps you right now.

 

[NWwildcat2013]

I thought programs were increasingly requiring step 2. Is this not the case in neuro?


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[PremedBear]

I thought programs were increasingly requiring step 2. Is this not the case in neuro?


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I guess this was the purpose of my question. The FAQ thread basically says not to worry about taking step 2 before applications are submitted, but that was 5 or so years ago. I've heard similar things for other specialties. Not sure how to gauge what neuro is like right now. Might just start making a spreadsheet of potential residencies and see what each program says on their website (or might have to email them).