Step 2 CS Scheduling in Philadelphia Suspended for IMGs

Scheduling for Step 2 CS test dates through December 31, 2004 at the Philadelphia Clinical Skills Evaluation Center (CSEC) has been suspended for international medical students/graduates (IMGs). The purpose of the suspension is to ensure a representative mix of IMGs and registrants from U.S./Canadian medical schools (USMGs) during the initial months of testing at the Philadelphia CSEC. Scheduling for Philadelphia test dates through December 31 remains available for USMGs.

Currently, the number of IMGs scheduled to take Step 2 CS at the Philadelphia CSEC through December is significantly larger than the number of USMGs scheduled to test in Philadelphia during this period. Ensuring a representative mix of examinees is an important factor in equating examination data across CSECs. This equating process must be completed before initial Step 2 CS results are released. Therefore, the suspension may help ensure the timely release of initial Step 2 CS results.

This suspension applies only to IMGs scheduling testing appointments in Philadelphia through December 31. It is important to note that:

* IMGs can continue to register for Step 2 CS.
* Testing appointments in Philadelphia after December 31 remain available to IMGs.
* There are no restrictions for IMGs scheduling testing appointments at other CSECs.

IMGs who already have a scheduled testing appointment at the Philadelphia CSEC are not affected by this suspension; these applicants retain their scheduled testing appointments. However, IMGs who have a scheduled testing appointment in Philadelphia should be aware that, if they cancel their appointments, they will not be able to obtain another testing appointment at the Philadelphia CSEC for a date earlier than January 1, 2005.

IMGs who plan to participate in the 2005 National Resident Matching Program ("the Match") should be aware of information published by the USMLE regarding the availability of Step 2 CS results. This information states that, although a specific reporting date cannot be guaranteed, regardless of the date on which Step 2 CS is taken, examinees who take Step 2 CS later than December 31, 2004 are unlikely to have their results in time to participate in the Match.

We will continue to monitor scheduling patterns at all CSECs. For the most up-to-date information on Step 2 CS scheduling policies, visit the ECFMG website.