USMLE Step 2 CK Score Interpretation & Percentile Guide
Understand what your three-digit score means, how it maps to national percentiles, and what residency programs see when they review your application.
How Step 2 CK Is Scored
1–300
3-Digit Scale
214
Passing Score
~247
National Mean
Step 2 CK uses a three-digit scoring scale ranging from 1 to 300. The passing score is currently 214. The national mean for first-time examinees from U.S. and Canadian medical schools is approximately 247–248, with a standard deviation of about 15 points.
Step 2 CK Score to Percentile Table
Use this table to estimate where your score falls relative to other first-time examinees from accredited U.S. and Canadian medical schools.
| Score | Approx. Percentile | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| 280+ | 99th | Exceptional — top 1% |
| 270–279 | 95th–98th | Outstanding |
| 260–269 | 85th–94th | Excellent |
| 250–259 | 65th–84th | Above average |
| 240–249 | 40th–64th | Average to above average |
| 230–239 | 20th–39th | Below average to average |
| 220–229 | 5th–19th | Below average |
| 214–219 | 1st–4th | Passing, low percentile |
| Below 214 | — | Did not pass |
Percentiles are approximate estimates based on USMLE performance data for first-time examinees from U.S. and Canadian medical schools. They are for reference only and may vary slightly by exam cycle.
Interpreting Practice Exam Scores
When you finish a practice exam on EndlessCK or another platform, the raw percentage correct does not directly equal your predicted Step 2 CK score. Different question banks use their own scoring algorithms.
A rough rule of thumb for major commercial question banks:
- UWorld Self-Assessment: The 3-digit predicted score is often calibrated close to the real exam. A UWorld predicted score of 240+ generally correlates with a solid Step 2 CK performance.
- NBME/CBSSA: NBME practice forms provide a score report with a predicted range. Scores on these forms tend to be slightly lower than the actual exam for many students.
- Percent correct alone: On a high-quality question bank, ~65–70% correct often correlates with a passing score, while ~75–80% or higher suggests a score well above the mean.
What Residency Programs See
Residency program directors receive your USMLE transcript, which shows your Step 1 (if taken before pass/fail), Step 2 CK score, and Step 2 CS/Step 3 results if applicable. For most specialties, Step 2 CK is the single strongest numeric differentiator on your application.
NRMP Charting Outcomes data shows that matched applicants in competitive specialties often have Step 2 CK scores well above the national mean. However, scores are only one component — clinical grades, letters of recommendation, research, and interview performance all carry significant weight.
Key takeaway
A strong Step 2 CK score opens doors, but it does not lock them. Many applicants with average scores match successfully each year by presenting a well-rounded application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good Step 2 CK score?
A 'good' score depends on your specialty goals. For most specialties, a score at or above the national mean (~247) is competitive. Highly competitive specialties like dermatology, orthopedic surgery, and plastic surgery often see matched applicants with averages well above 250.
How does the pass/fail Step 1 affect Step 2 CK importance?
Since Step 1 became pass/fail in 2022, Step 2 CK has become the primary numeric metric residency programs use to compare applicants. This makes Step 2 CK performance more influential than in previous eras.
Can I retake Step 2 CK to improve my score?
Yes, but with limitations. You can retake the exam up to four times total. However, retaking and scoring lower can raise concerns for program directors. Most advisors recommend retaking only if you believe you can meaningfully improve.
Do international medical graduates need higher scores?
IMG applicants often face stiffer competition and may benefit from scores above the mean to remain competitive. However, program requirements vary widely, and some programs do not screen by score at all.
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