<P> Step 2 CK is a one - day examination . It is divided into eight 60 - minute blocks, administered in one 9 - hour testing session . Test item formats may vary within each block . It is constructed according to an integrated content outline that organizes clinical science material along two dimensions: physician task and disease category . </P> <P> USMLE Step 2 CS assesses the ability of medical school students or graduates to apply medical knowledge, skills, and understanding of clinical science essential for the provision of patient care under supervision, and includes emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention . Step 2 ensures that due attention is devoted to the principles of clinical sciences and basic patient - centered skills that provide the foundation for the safe and effective practice of medicine . </P> <P> Step 2 CS uses standardized patients to test medical students and graduates on their ability to gather information from patients, perform physical examinations, and communicate their findings to patients and colleagues . The examination is offered in five cities across the country: </P> <Ul> <Li> Philadelphia </Li> <Li> Chicago </Li> <Li> Atlanta </Li> <Li> Houston </Li> <Li> Los Angeles </Li> </Ul>

When do you take step 1 2 3