No, a 220 is generally not considered a good Step 3 score.
While any passing score allows you to progress, a score of 220 falls below the typical threshold for what is generally considered "good" for the USMLE Step 3 exam. Understanding the scoring context can provide clarity on where a 220 stands.
Understanding Step 3 Scores
The USMLE Step 3 exam is the final examination in the USMLE sequence, typically taken by residents during their first or second year of postgraduate training. Unlike Step 1 and Step 2 CK, the Step 3 score is often less critical for residency match purposes but can be important for fellowship applications or for fulfilling state medical board licensing requirements.
Score Classifications
To put a 220 into perspective, it's helpful to understand the general classifications of Step 3 scores:
| Score Range | Classification | What it Means |
|---|---|---|
| Above 240 | Excellent | Puts test-takers in a highly competitive bracket, often around the 79th percentile or higher. |
| Above 230 | Good | Scores in this range are generally well-regarded and considered strong. |
| Slightly Below 230 | Mean/Average | This range represents the typical performance of all test-takers. A score of 220 falls slightly below this average. |
| Below 220 | Below Average | While still a passing score, it indicates performance below the average for test-takers. |
As the table illustrates, a score is generally considered "good" if it is above 230. The mean score for Step 3 typically rests slightly below 230, which means a 220 is also below the average performance of test-takers.
Importance of Your Step 3 Score
While a 220 might not be classified as "good," its overall impact depends on your career goals:
- Licensure: For most state medical boards, the primary requirement is simply passing the exam. A 220 is a passing score.
- Fellowship Applications: For competitive fellowship programs, a higher Step 3 score might be viewed favorably.
- Program Requirements: Some residency programs or institutions may have internal benchmarks for Step 3 scores, though this is less common than for Step 1 or Step 2 CK.
In conclusion, while a 220 is a passing score for Step 3, it does not fall into the "good" or "excellent" categories based on general scoring benchmarks.
