Which is a better result for an IMG doing the USMLE?

[Jloyay]

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Failing Step 1, retaking and then killing it (240+), or passing in one try with a mediocre score (210-220)?

 

[mcl]

Failing Step 1, retaking and then killing it (240+), or passing in one try with a mediocre score (210-220)?

I'd go with the latter. If Step 2 is high enough, we might overlook a mediocre Step 1 score, but a failure is a no-go unless there's some other overwhelming factor/connection that makes the Step scores inconsequential.

 

[Phloston]

It doesn't matter how high you score a second time around, if you fail once, programs will see that and X you. Even if you think "acing" it the second time shows you do well if you really care, the bigger red flag regarding this thought process is that one wouldn't responsibly approach it the first time. Programs want mature, responsible team players.

 

[22031 Alum]

Failing is worse. Even if you absolutely kill it the second time around, the fact that it took two tries will be a huge red flag.