The USMLE Step 3 pass score is 200 in 2026. This pass score is substantially lower than the USMLE Step 2 pass score of 218.
The good news with Step 3 is that the pass rates for all examinees is quite high. US MD graduates have a pass rate of 93% on the first attempt. US DO graduates of 89%, and international medical graduates (IMGs) have a pass rate of 75%.
The challenge is for individuals who do not pass immediately — they tend to have significantly lower pass rates on future attempts. For US MD graduates, the repeat pass rate is 71%. For US DO graduates, the repeat Step 3 pass rate is 79%. For IMGs, the repeat pass rate is 54%.
USMLE Step 3 Pass Rate Data
What should you do if you do not pass?
If you do not pass, it is recommended to first audit the resources that you used. Typically, the challenge most individuals have is either they did not complete the resources or they scored poorly on the practice questions.
If you scored poorly, it is best to repeat those questions to ensure that you have learned the correct content. If you are concerned about remembering the answers rather than actually learning the material, it is good to switch resources. For example, if you used UWorld, you can try Amboss.
If you struggled with the CCS cases on the exam, ensure you go through all of the cases on StudyCCS. Once you have gone through all of the cases and score above 70%, then consider using the SpeedOrders simulator to get faster at placing orders and completing the cases.