STEP 1 score 215 - any residencies possible?

[Wagamama]

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Hi folks, I've been lurking on the USMLE forums for a while, viewing the study suggestions and what not from others. The highest NBME I ever got was a 210, and had no more time left to postpone. I'm glad I ended up higher than what I anticipate, but I know it's not a score worth celebrating for, especially since I'm one of the Caribbean med students (but US citizen).
So I would like to ask here what are my chances of residency programs? I am looking at programs like Family Med, Physical Med, Peds, or Internal Med (that's probably a reach). Any insight on what residencies/program tier worth trying out for me? I know there is still STEP2, and how LORs & publications can help, but I'd just like to prepare myself for a likely field my career path will be following. Thank you!

 

[Phloston]

As a Caribbean IMG applying to the specialties you've listed, your Step-1 score is borderline.

If you package together satisfactory LORs, a Step-2CK >220 and pass all clinical rotations, you'll secure some interviews, and possibly a match, if you are flexible with where you could end up and apply to many places.

Bear in mind that the bar is set higher for IMGs (I am one as well). An AMG with a 215 would definitely secure a position somewhere.

Hope that helps,

 

[ThreadMaker]

The average usmle scores for imgs who matched into family medicine was 204, believe it or not. http://b83c73bcf0e7ca356c80-e8560f4...tent/uploads/2013/08/chartingoutcomes2011.pdf page 71, so you can probably match into family medicine (keep in mind that you will be competing against AMGs whose average usmle for FM was 213).

As for IM and Peds, the chances are much lower.

 

[skyblue2000]

That's from 2011.... it's going to be MUCH different in 2015-2016... unfortunately

..nevermind just saw the OP is US citizen...

yeaa you'll be fine for FM as long as you do the magic number at least 15 better on Step 2...

 

[ThreadMaker]

That's from 2011.... it's going to be MUCH different in 2015-2016... unfortunately

..nevermind just saw the OP is US citizen...

yeaa you'll be fine for FM as long as you do the magic number at least 15 better on Step 2...

You mind saying what will be so much different? I don't think that the average usmle score will change all that much. Are you referring to the new influx of us md graduates?