The passing standard is different for each Step, and Step 1 no longer reports a number at all. This guide gives the current standards as USMLE publishes them, when each took effect, and how to read your result.
Current passing standards
| Step | Standard | Applies to exams administered on or after |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | Reported as pass/fail (196 on the three-digit scale) | January 26, 2022 |
| Step 2 CK | 218 | July 1, 2025 |
| Step 3 | 200 | January 1, 2024 |
USMLE says each passing standard is reviewed approximately once every four years, so check the official page before you rely on a number from a blog or a forum post.
What pass/fail on Step 1 means
Step 1 results are reported only as pass or fail. The 196 figure applies to the three-digit scale that is no longer shown to examinees. Step 2 CK and Step 3 still report a score; Step 1 does not.
Reading a Step 2 CK or Step 3 result
- A score at or above the standard is a pass. A score below it is a fail, however close it is.
- Your score report lists performance by content area, which is more useful than the number for planning a retake.
- If you do not pass, the rules on attempts and waiting periods apply.
Related guides
- USMLE results, rechecks and transcripts: score release timing and the 90-day recheck.
- NBME self-assessments: practice scores and score lookup tables.
- USMLE Step 1 guide, USMLE Step 2 CK guide and USMLE Step 3 guide.