What is a Safe Percentage (%) to Pass on NBMEs?

One of the most frequently asked questions among medical students preparing for the USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 exams is: What percentage do I need to pass the NBMEs?

The Magic Number: Two-Thirds

When it comes to passing the NBMEs, you want to aim for around two-thirds of the questions correct, or approximately 66-67%. This threshold, while not exact for every form, is a good rule of thumb across different NBME exams and the USMLE itself.

It's important to note that this figure is a generalized estimate. Depending on which NBME form or the Free 120 exam you are taking, scoring can fluctuate slightly. However, shooting for this 66-67% mark is considered a "safe zone" for passing.

Breaking Down NBME Forms and the Free 120

For students preparing for Step 1 or Step 2 CK, understanding how the NBME exams are structured can provide peace of mind. Each NBME form is different in terms of scaling, which affects the percentage needed for passing. For instance, you may see varying passing percentages across offline forms like NBME 20-24 for Step 1, or NBME 6-8 for Step 2 CK.

What If Your Scores Fall Below 60%?

If your scores on the NBMEs or the Free 120 fall below the 60% mark, it’s time to take a step back and evaluate your study strategy. The general recommendation is to review UWorld Incorrects. This assumes that you’ve already completed the UWorld question bank at least once before tackling the NBMEs.

Incorporating UWorld questions is an excellent way to solidify your understanding. Once you’ve completed the UWorld Incorrects, return to the NBMEs . By doing so, you’ll see how much progress you’ve made and identify areas that may need further review.

Personalized Study Plans Based on NBME Scores

Every student has a unique study plan depending on their timeline and goals. Whether you’re racing against time due to school deadlines or prepping for the Match, your NBME scores are a good indicator of whether you need to adjust your study plan.

If you're consistently scoring below the mid-60s, remediation may be necessary. At this point, reviewing key concepts and focusing on UWorld Incorrects becomes even more critical. On the other hand, if you're above 60%, you're in a better position but should still aim for consistent improvements to secure your passing score.

Use PredictMyStepScore for More Insights

As you continue preparing for your USMLE exams, you might wonder how your practice scores stack up against real exam outcomes. Fortunately, tools like Predict My Step Score can provide valuable insights based on your practice performance.

By using this tool, you can input your NBME percentages and receive a projected Step 1, Step 2 or Step 3 score. This can help you gauge your readiness and see where you need to focus your efforts before exam day.