Should You Retake the USMLE Step 1? Insights and Advice from Real Test-Takers

Deciding whether to retake the USMLE Step 1 after a failed attempt is tough. The stakes feel high, and the self-doubt can creep in. But guess what? You’re not alone. Many others have faced this decision; their stories may help you find clarity.

Here’s what people who’ve been in your shoes have to say from the USMLE Step 1 Facebook group

“Don’t Give Up” — It’s the Most Common Advice

The overwhelming response? Don’t give up.

José Hernández passionately declared, “DON’T GIVE UP!!!! YOU GOT THISSSS…THE BEST WISHES AND NEVER STOP ON YOUR GOALS!!!!!” Others echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing persistence and resilience.

Anna Carmo shared, “Don’t give up, now you know how the test is, heads up and study for the next try 🙂 everything is going to be alright.” Sometimes, a little optimism can be the push you need.

Real-Life Success Stories to Inspire You

Many people who failed Step 1 still matched into residency.

Mafaz Abdallah recounted, “My close friend passed on her second attempt and matched into internal medicine from the first round. She is in her final year now.” Mafaz also highlighted the importance of diving back into studying without delay: “Start studying on your weak points right away. Don’t take a long gap… Keep doing UWorld and NBME as much as you can.”

Sophia Azi added another success story: “My friend passed her Step 1 on the third try and got matched in her first cycle in family medicine without any connections last year. Don’t give up on dreams!! Never!”

These examples show that a failed Step 1 doesn’t have to be the end of the road.

Tackle Your Weaknesses

Several commenters emphasized focusing on weak areas, especially now that your score report points them out.

Gianna Scannell advised: “You’re too close to give up. The score report also tells you where you’re weakest. Go back to First Aid Systems and learn those sections well. Then, please take an NBME test. You will have an answer to your readiness within two weeks of the test without risking to fail another USMLE.”

Prince Charles Otabil said, “Since you know areas that you’re weak, work on them and retake the exam, okay?” Reflecting on what went wrong the first time is crucial.

Practical Tips for Moving Forward

1. Get Back on Track Quickly: To maintain momentum, Mafaz Abdallah advised booking the exam in the next block.

2. Leverage Study Resources: Tools like ScholarRx, NBME, and First Aid Systems are frequently recommended. Mafaz’s friend credited these resources for their eventual success.

3. Simulate the Exam: Gianna pointed out that taking an NBME practice test can help gauge your readiness without the risk of another failure.

4. Consider Tutoring: Services offered by Usmle PrepHub or tutors like Maha Khan Khan could provide personalized guidance.