Should i take both comlex and usmle

While both exams are fairly similar, they still have their differences which must be accounted for while preparing. Need help studying for these board exams and want a highly qualified tutor? MedSchoolCoach has got you covered! Your email address will not be published. Is much stricter on break times allowing you only 10 minutes of break time after completing blocks 1 and 2, a minute lunch break, and a minute break after completing blocks 5 and 6.

You must complete 2 blocks at a time whereas on the USMLE you are allowed to take a break after each block if you would like. The USMLE allows 45 minutes of break time built in with rollover time if you finish a block faster than the given time.

Gives you less time per question as you are allowed an hour for each question block whereas on the USMLE you are allowed an hour for each question block. Tends to focus more on questions regarding primary care pathology rather than evenly distributing their questions between all subjects as the USMLE does.

You must know what the question writer is trying to get at. With the recent merger, this question becomes more nuanced and generally the answer still depends on a variety of factors including: Cost — Board examinations and preparation materials are expensive. Some students may also need to travel for exams increasing the cost even more. Taking one exam is stressful enough but adding another one only increases the stress.

The more competitive the specialty you want to apply to, the more reason to consider taking the USMLE. You do not want to have to go back and take the USMLE licensing exams as you are finishing residency.

Sahil Mehta Sahil Mehta M. MedSchoolCoach provides admissions consulting to premedical students in the form of interview preparation, essay editing and general advising. In the past 10 years, he has had a hand in over a thousand acceptances to medical school.

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