The USMLE program provides a standardized measure of physician knowledge and clinical performance that is a key component of professional certification.
However, the cost of taking the USMLE exams is staggering:
However, the cost of taking the USMLE exams is staggering:
- Current registration fees to take the four USMLE exams, as of 2016, are $3,320 per U.S. medical student and $4,125 per international medical graduate (IMG).
- Many U.S. and IMG medical students must travel significant distances to take Step 2 CS as this exam is only offered in five U.S. cities. IMGs are also not allowed to take Step 3 in their home countries. Medical students typically fund these costs, including registration fees, with student loans that accrue interest adding to the total expense.
- The USMLE also takes in money for IMGs with J-1 visas that must pay a $285 annual fee during post-graduate training. Additionally, the USMLE charges physicians a minimum $70 fee to deliver official transcripts to employers and licensing bodies.