Introduction

Why Computer-based Testing?

When Did CBT Begin?

CBT Registration: Some New Policies and Procedures

An Overview of Registration & Scheduling: What You Need to Do

Examinees with Documented Disabilities

Format of Computer-based Step 1 & Step 2

Minimum Passing Scores

How to Prepare

Directory of Services

Glossary

• Shorter Testing Time. The former paper and pencil Step 1 and Step 2 were each two-day exams. Computer-based Step 1 and Step 2 are each one-day exams. Computer-based administrations of Step 1 last about 8 hours. Computer-based administrations of Step 2 last about 9 hours.
  
  
• Flexibility. Computer-based testing offers examinees greater opportunity and flexibility in taking Step 1 and Step 2. ECFMG offered each of the former paper and pencil exams twice per year--on fixed dates. However, for computer-based Step 1 and Step 2, applicants choose the three-month time period during which they would like to take the exam. They may take the exam on any date that it is offered during this three-month period, provided that space is available at the desired test center.
  
  In addition, eligible applicants for CBT may attempt each Step up to three times in any twelve-month period. Applicants who wish to retake a computer-based Step only need to wait 60 days between attempts on the same Step.
  
  
• Wider Access. Computer-based Step 1 and Step 2 are offered at nearly 500 Prometric test centers worldwide. Nearly 200 of these centers are located outside of the United States and Canada. These numbers represent a significant increase over the 79 ECFMG test centers that were available to students and graduates of foreign medical schools under the paper and pencil format. Under computer-based testing, students/graduates of both foreign and US medical schools test at the same Prometric test centers.
  
  
• Faster Score Reporting. The fact that the test materials and examinee responses are stored electronically allows ECFMG to mail scores to examinees typically three to four weeks after their test dates, rather than the eight weeks that were required before scores could be mailed for paper and pencil administrations.