How to Apply for USMLE Step 1 in India

1. How to Apply for USMLE Step 1 in India Nowadays, many medical aspirants in India are eager to practice medicine abroad, especially in the United States. The USMLE Step 1 exam serves as the gateway for Indian medical graduates to begin their medical practice journey in the USA. If you are wondering how to apply for USMLE Step 1 in India, this guide will help you navigate the registration, eligibility, and preparation process with ease. The first step in the journey is understanding the USMLE Step 1 application process. Indian medical students must create an account with the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) using the new MyIntealth digital portal. This portal has replaced older systems like the IWA and streamlines application, credential verification, and communication between aspirants and ECFMG. Step 1: Creating Your MyIntealth Account To start your USMLE Step 1 application, visit the MyIntealth Applicant Portal and select “Create an Account.” Fill in your personal information accurately and verify your account through the confirmation email sent by the system. Once verified, request your USMLE/ECFMG Identification Number within MyIntealth. Your account is essential for future applications, document submissions, and communications with ECFMG. Step 2: Filling the USMLE Step 1 Application Form After your account is active, log in to the MyIntealth dashboard and click “Apply for Examination” under the ECFMG Certification section. Complete all required personal, educational, and identification details, select a 3-month eligibility period for your exam, upload the necessary documents, and pay the exam fee online. Accurate submission ensures your application proceeds without delays. The MyIntealth portal allows you to track your application and receive real-time notifications from ECFMG. Step 3: Medical Credential Verification Previously, applicants used Form 183 for credential verification, but MyIntealth has digitized this process. Upload your medical degree and transcripts to MyIntealth, ensuring your medical school is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS) with an ECFMG Sponsor Note. MyIntealth sends the documents electronically to your institution for verification. Once verified, you become eligible for Step 1 registration. Step 4: Application Approval and Scheduling Permit After submitting your documents and payment, ECFMG reviews your application. Typically, approval takes 2–3 weeks. Once approved, you will receive an email with your Scheduling Permit containing your Candidate ID and instructions to book your exam. Keep this document safe, as it is mandatory for booking your test and verification at the test center. Step 5: Booking Your Exam via Prometric The final step is scheduling your exam through Prometric, the o?icial USMLE testing partner. Visit the Prometric website, select USMLE, choose a convenient test center in India, and finalize a date within your eligibility period. Enter your Scheduling Permit details to confirm the booking. Once scheduled, your USMLE Step 1 registration is complete.

2. Documents Required for Registration To ensure a smooth registration process, prepare the following documents: Valid Passport with a recent photograph.  Medical School Credentials including degrees and transcripts.  Payment Confirmation for your online exam fee.  Eligibility Period Confirmation for your 3-month exam window.  Scheduling Permit issued after ECFMG approval.  Eligibility Criteria for USMLE Examinations Step 1: Students in their 2nd or 3rd year of medical school, enrolled in or graduates of LCME-, COCA-, or ECFMG-recognized schools.  Step 2 CK: Candidates in their final year of medical school who have passed Step 1.  Step 3: Taken after Step 1 and Step 2 CK, along with at least one year of residency training and ECFMG certification.  Eligibility may slightly vary based on the state medical board for licensure, so check MyIntealth or the o?icial ECFMG website for updates. USMLE Preparation Tips While waiting for your application approval, start preparing for the exam. An e?ective study schedule is crucial. Allocate dedicated time for each subject, focus on strengths and weaknesses, and use high-quality resources such as review books, question banks, and practice tests. Regular self-assessment, topic-wise revisions, and joining study groups can enhance your preparation. Platforms like USMLE Strike provide curated study materials, expert tips, and mentoring for Indian aspirants, helping them excel in Step 1 with confidence. OET Exam Requirement International candidates, including those in India, need to pass the Occupational English Test (OET) to demonstrate proficiency in medical English. The OET is conducted several times a year in major Indian cities, including Bengaluru, Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata. A satisfactory OET score is required for ECFMG certification, which is essential for Step 1 eligibility. Tips for a Smooth Application Process 1.Begin your USMLE Step 1 application well in advance. 2.Ensure all personal and educational details are accurate. 3.Keep all documents scanned and ready before submission. 4.Track your application status on MyIntealth regularly. 5.Prepare for the exam simultaneously to maximize your readiness. Benefits of Using Expert Platforms

3. For Indian students, guidance from professional platforms like USMLE Strike can simplify the registration and preparation process. From creating your MyIntealth account to booking your exam through Prometric, expert mentoring ensures no step is missed. Additionally, access to study materials, test simulations, and performance tracking improves exam readiness. Conclusion Understanding how to apply for USMLE Step 1 in India is the first crucial step for aspiring doctors aiming to practice in the USA. Following each step carefully — from creating your MyIntealth account to verifying credentials, obtaining a scheduling permit, and booking your exam — ensures a smooth process. Alongside preparation, leveraging trusted platforms like USMLE Strike can make your journey more manageable and boost your chances of success. With proper planning, dedication, and reliable resources, Indian medical students can confidently pursue their dream of becoming licensed physicians in the United States. For more details visit https://usmlestrike.com/what-is-the-salary-after-usmle/