| Category | Step 2 CK | Step 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Who takes it | Medical students, usually in the final years | Usually taken during intern year (PGY-1) |
| Format | One-day exam, ~9 hours | Two-day exam including computer-based case simulations |
| Passing standard | Scored (mean ~245) | Scored; primarily pass/fail in practice |
| Focus | Clinical diagnosis and management across specialties | Independent practice management and patient care |
Step 2 CK is far more important for residency applications because program directors use its three-digit score to screen applicants. Step 3 is typically taken during residency and, for most purposes, only needs to be passed rather than maximized.
Step 3 is most commonly taken during intern year (PGY-1), after starting residency, though some take it late in medical school. Step 2 CK is taken earlier, before applying to residency.
Step 3 is a two-day exam that includes computer-based case simulations (CCS) and focuses on independent patient management as a practicing physician. Step 2 CK is a one-day, question-only exam focused on clinical knowledge across specialties.
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