Step 2 CS

‘What is the Step 2 CS examination?’

The Step2 CS  or Clinical Skills Examination (CSE) examination evaluates ones ability to gather and interpret clinical  patient data and communicate effectively in the English language. Step 2 CS consists of eleven or twelve stations, ten of which are scored; in each station one will encounter a Standardized Patient (SP), a lay person trained to realistically and consistently portray a patient. The SPs will respond to questions with answers appropriate to the patient being portrayed and will react appropriately to physical maneuvers. One will be expected to proceed through each encounter with an SP as if you would with a real patient.

The Step 2 CS exam assesses whether one can obtain a relevant medical history, perform a focused physical exam and compose a written record of the patient encounter. The Step 2 CS requires that one demonstrate proficiency in spoken English, which will be evaluated by the Standardized Patients encountered in the test stations. The Step 2 CS exam is administered only in English. The Step 2 CS examination is offered in five U.S. cities including Philadelphia, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, and Atlanta at the ECFMG Clinical Skills Assessment Centers. If one meets the eligibility requirements, one may apply for the Step 2 CS exam at any time. The date of ones most recent passing performance on the Step 2 CS will appear on ones Standard ECFMG Certificate. This Step 2 CS date is valid indefinately from the date passed for the purpose of entering a program of graduate medical education in the United States.