USMLE Step 2 and DOs

[me454555]

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Just got my USMLE score and did well (220/89). I'm a DO student who's planning on going through the MD match. Is there any advantage to taking USMLE Step II? Will it really help me land a residency given my step one score or is it just a waste of time and $$? Advice appreciated

 

[zeusdoc]

A USMLE step 1 score of 220 is very respectable and should be good enough for you to match at an allopathic program without step 2.

However, depending on the program (elite or staunchly MD) or your choice of specialty (super competitive like ortho, derm or rads), you may consider taking Step 2.

Bear in mind that numbers aren't everything. Residency programs of all specialties look for balanced candidates that are going to work well and fit into their program.

Good luck.