Step 2 score automatic release to programs?

[crys20]

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Do you have the option of withholding your step II score from programs even if you've taken it in, say August? Can they see that you have taken it and aren't releasing scores? Do you have the option of manually releasing after scores come back, assuming they are good? When people say to not take step II early if your step 1 is good, do they mean to not do automatic release or to literally wait until winter time or so?

Sorry for all the questions, this has always confused me and as a new MSIII I am trying to plan accordingly!

 

[UCLAstudent]

Do you have the option of withholding your step II score from programs even if you've taken it in, say August? Can they see that you have taken it and aren't releasing scores? Do you have the option of manually releasing after scores come back, assuming they are good? When people say to not take step II early if your step 1 is good, do they mean to not do automatic release or to literally wait until winter time or so?

Sorry for all the questions, this has always confused me and as a new MSIII I am trying to plan accordingly!

I don't think that this works if you take Step 2 CK in August, since ERAS can't be submitted until September. The key is to check the box to withhold release of future Step scores and submit ERAS PRIOR to taking Step 2 (someone correct me if I'm wrong). You can still manually release your scores, but it costs extra money.

Regarding your last question, taking Step 2 "late" refers to delaying it until, ideally, after interview season if you have a good Step 1. However, many medical schools have a due date for taking Step 2 (my school requires it by Dec. 31).

 

[bigdan]

On your ERAS application, there is a slot to fill in when you're taking Step II - it asks you whether or not you passed the exam, and when it was/will be taken. So that info shows up on your CAF (a snapshot of your total application package) that the residency directors can see. So, if you've chosen NOT to show your Step II score, but you've entered that your results are pending and that you've taken the exam in August, then yes - they will know that you've taken the exam.

I've waivered on what to do with the score release. Part of me wants to see the score before I submit that score to the residency programs, but another part of me says "WTF? They're all gonna have to see my score at some point, whether that's a 205 or a 250".

dc