| Category | COMLEX-USA | USMLE |
|---|---|---|
| Administered by | NBOME | FSMB + NBME |
| Who takes it | Osteopathic (DO) medical students | MD students; optional for DO students |
| Format | Three levels; Level 1 now pass/fail | Steps 1, 2 CK, and 3 |
| Passing standard | Level 1 pass/fail; Level 2-CE scored | Step 1 pass/fail; Step 2 CK scored |
| Focus | Allopathic medicine plus osteopathic principles (OMM) | Basic science mechanisms and clinical management |
No. DO students are only required to take the COMLEX for licensure. Some choose to also take the USMLE to strengthen their residency applications, particularly for competitive specialties or programs that are more familiar with USMLE scores.
Both cover the same core medical science and clinical knowledge, but the COMLEX additionally tests osteopathic principles and manipulative medicine (OMM), and it is administered by the NBOME for osteopathic students. The USMLE is the allopathic licensing exam.
It depends on career goals. Taking both adds significant study burden but can help when applying to competitive residencies or programs that prefer USMLE scores. Students targeting less competitive fields often take only the required COMLEX.
Apply what you know
Progress Note adapts to your knowledge gaps — so you spend time on what actually moves the needle.
Start practicing free arrow_forwardContinue the curriculum