There are many stepping stones on the path to becoming a physician. Premedical requirements are just the beginning of a long and exciting journey. Then come the following steps:
- Taking the MCAT
- Submitting AMCAS and/or AACOMAS application(s)
- Medical School Enrollment
- USMLE Step 1 or COMLEX-USA Level 1 (the board exams for allopathic and osteopathic students)
- USMLE Step 2 CK and CS or COMLEX-USA Level 2 CE and PE (the next series of board exams)
- The Match: either through the NRMP or AOA
- Graduate with either the MD or DO degree
- USMLE Step 3 or COMLEX-USA Level 3
- Apply for licensing
Here’s a schematic of the above, brought to you courtesy of the Federation of State Medical Boards.
–Liza Thompson, Expert Medical School Admissions Consulting