The USMLE program requires completion of the following prior to submitting a Step 3 application:

• Obtain an M.D. degree (or its equivalent) or a D.O. degree (or its equivalent). You may apply only apply after the date of graduation on your diploma. (Recent graduates, it can take up to six weeks to verify the degree before approval for Step 3)
• Pass both USMLE Steps 1 and 2 (CK and CS).
• If a graduate of a foreign medical school, certification by the ECFMG or successful completion of a "Fifth Pathway" program. (You may apply only after the issue date on your ECFMG or Fifth Pathway certificate)
• Meet the requirements for taking Step 3 imposed by the individual licensing authority for which you are applying to sit Step 3.

You must be eligible to sit for Step 3 at the time you submit the application.

• You may apply only after the date of graduation on your MD diploma, D.O. diploma or issue date on your ECFMG or Fifth Pathway certificate, to be eligible to apply for Step 3. If you apply before you have graduated from medical school and received your diploma or the issue date of the ECFMG or Fifth Pathway certification your application will be cancelled and a portion of your fees forfeited.
• As of November 10, 2006 all Fifth Pathway graduates are required to submit a notarized photocopy of your Bachelor's degree (if no Bachelor's degree, you must have your pre-med education institution forward an official transcript directly from the school), a notarized photocopy of your medical school diploma an Fifth Pathway certificate.
• The USMLE program limits all individuals to four (4) attempts per Step within a 12-month period. You may not apply for a fifth attempt at Step 3 prior to the expiration of 12 months from the date of the first Step 3 administration.

If you have questions concerning your eligibility, please contact the FSMB at (817) 868-4041 or via email: usmle@fsmb.org