So I'm applying to a couple programs that "require" Step 2 to rank.

[ZagDoc]

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I know. My question is... does it even matter? Do they want to see you passed Step 2? Or do they want to see that you got close to Step 1 and didn't get more stupid over the last year or so? (debatable for me)

My question stems from the fact that I did fairly well on Step 1, and don't know if I have to do "fairly well" on Step 2.

 

[coup de chance]

Most of the programs that I saw had step 1 "suggestions" (as opposed to strict cut-offs) and if they required step 2, they usually set the same "suggestions" for step 1 and 2.

If you're a program director reading this, please join in and help us out.

 

[twilightdoc]

I know. My question is... does it even matter? Do they want to see you passed Step 2? Or do they want to see that you got close to Step 1 and didn't get more stupid over the last year or so? (debatable for me)

My question stems from the fact that I did fairly well on Step 1, and don't know if I have to do "fairly well" on Step 2.

I'm not a program director, but I know a couple of them pretty well.... One reason that programs may require Step 2 scores for ranking may be to ensure that an applicant will be able to get a training license in that particular state. The program where I work will interview without Step 2 (provided the Step 1 score is pretty good, etc.), but having a Step 2 score available by rank day works to the advantage of most of the applicants. Other programs may differ.

 

[smq123]

I know. My question is... does it even matter? Do they want to see you passed Step 2? Or do they want to see that you got close to Step 1 and didn't get more stupid over the last year or so? (debatable for me)

My question stems from the fact that I did fairly well on Step 1, and don't know if I have to do "fairly well" on Step 2.

It depends on the program and the specialty.

Some specialties that are very competitive (such as the top programs in radiology) are now using Step 2 as another measuring stick.

Other programs just want to see that you've passed it, because if you didn't, then not only can it hold up graduation, it can also prevent you from getting a training license.