Most students complete their clinical training and graduate in 2 or 2.5 years after completing the Basic Sciences. These students usually take USMLE Step 2 after completing all Year 3 requirements. However, students may choose a three-year Clinical Studies schedule (a fifth year in the Four-Year MD program).
Students following this schedule may take USMLE Step 2 after four years of medical school, allowing additional preparation time. During this period, students may also complete an individually tailored schedule of electives and/or conduct research.
The Office of Career Guidance (OCG) may advise students to consider a fifth year if they meet one or more of the following criteria, which are predictors of poor performance on USMLE Step 2.
- Academic difficulties in the Basic Science phase (including CR, LOA, or F)
- Failing USMLE Step 1
- Negative comments or a C/Pass in the Clinical Skills component of clerkships
- Failure on the NBME Clinical Subject Examinations