Passing the three-step USMLE is required for medical licensure in the United States. USMLE Step 1 is reported as pass/fail, but you will receive numerical scores for Step 2 CK and Step 3. A good USMLE Step 2 CK score is between 240-260, with 256 or higher being competitive for first-choice residency programs. A good […]
A good MCAT score is generally considered to be 511 or higher, with no section score below 127. The MCAT, also known as the Medical College Admission Test, is a computer-based standardized exam designed to assess your potential as a medical student and doctor. Earning a good MCAT score is crucial to gaining acceptance into […]
Understanding the prerequisites for medical school is critical to admissions success. The requirements for medical school can seem daunting, so it’s important to start your research early to stay organized and avoid missing application deadlines. In this comprehensive guide, we break down the necessary classes, exams, and other considerations you need to complete in order […]
Every quarter, the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) releases the latest pass rate data for the NCLEX®. NCLEX pass rates are constantly changing and can vary dramatically depending on a variety of factors. In 2023, the NCLEX was enhanced and rebranded as the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN). This new NCLEX features brand-new […]
In 2024, the average salary for all U.S. physicians, including Primary Care Physicians and Specialists, was $374k. The average doctor salary grew by 2.9% from 2023 to 2024. Orthopedics & Orthopedic Surgery is the top-paying medical specialty in 2024, with an average annual salary of $564k. [ READ NEXT: The Prerequisites for Medical School ] […]
The Dental Admission Test (DAT) has implemented a significant scoring change that will impact all aspiring dental students. In March 2025, the American Dental Association (ADA) transitioned to a new 3-digit scoring system for the DAT, replacing the familiar 2-digit scale. DAT scores will now range from 200 to 600, offering a more precise assessment […]
A good ACT score is a composite score of 23 or higher, which would put you in the top 25% of test takers. The national average composite score for the graduating high school class of 2024 was 19.4. A “perfect” score on the ACT is the maximum composite score of 36. What is considered a […]
Are you ready to tackle SAT math? The SAT math section consists of two 35-minute modules with 22 questions each. Questions across the math section will consist of both multiple-choice and student-produced response questions. About a third of the questions in the SAT math section will be word problems that are situated in a real-world […]
The ACT math section is similar to the math portions of many standardized tests, and all the ACT math questions are multiple-choice questions with four answer choices. Still, the ACT math section can hold a few surprises if you’re not prepared. Be sure to use our ACT math tips to improve your score and increase […]
Contrary to popular opinion, medical school admissions is not just a yes-or-no decision-making process. With so many qualified applicants and so few spaces, who ends up getting in? This guide breaks down the medical school admissions process, including the different medical school acceptance decisions you may receive and the options for early decision programs. Review […]