1. In 2018, the mean USMLE Step 1 score among U.S. seniors who matched to physical medicine and rehabilitation was 225. Among unmatched U.S. seniors, the mean score was 215. 

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2. Among the reasons for the importance of the USMLE in the selection process is the desire to select residents who will pass the American Board of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation board certification examination. 

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3. In a survey of 23 physical medicine and rehabilitation residency programs, 96% cited the USMLE as a factor in selecting applicants to interview. 

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4. Although programs differ in how USMLE Step 1 scores are used in the residency selection process, the score is an important factor used to make interview decisions. 54% of programs have established a target score while 38% look for evidence of a passing score. 

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5. Applicants with low USMLE Step 1 scores may have difficulty matching with pediatrics residency programs. 20% of U.S. seniors with scores < 220 failed to match in 2018.

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6. The USMLE Step 2 CK score is also a factor used by many physical medicine and rehabilitation residency programs in deciding whom to invite for interviews. 78% of programs use the Step 2 CK score in their decision-making process.

7. Should you take the USMLE Step 2 CK exam before applying to physical medicine & rehabilitation? Some programs want to see Step 2 scores when you apply. Applicants are urged to visit program websites as early as possible so that informed decisions can be made with respect to the timing of the USMLE Step 2 CK exam. 

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8.  Some programs want to see Step 2 scores before rank-order lists are due for submission in February. Review of program websites will allow for proper planning. "We look for strong board scores and a pass on the first attempt," writes the Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at the University of Virginia. "M4’s should have sat or scheduled Step II, CS and CK, by the time of interview – with passing scores on first attempt required by the end of interview season."

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9. When physical medicine and rehabilitation residency program directors were asked, “Would your program consider applicants who fail their [Step 1] exam on the 1st attempt,” 8% of programs indicated that they never do and 79% reported that they seldom do. At MD2B and The Successful Match, we have helped applicants overcome such obstacles, and you are welcome to contact us for more information.