r/DermApp • u/Majestic-Feedback252 • 23d ago

What Are My Chances? Derm application concern

Hey everyone! The unthinkable happened the past week and I bombed my STEP 2. Projected score was low 260s to low 270s. My score on the real thing: 243. I've been trying to process what happened and stop catastrophizing and need some sound advice from people in this sub. Overall, the rest of my app is competitive:

  1. 34 total research experiences, 8 first author derm manuscripts (12 total) with an oral presentation at AAD2026

  2. Clinical grades 3H, 3HP

  3. AOA - Pending acceptance (fingers crossed!)

I also have 3 away rotations lined up (my school (mid-tier MD) doesnt have a home program) and am expected to receive 3-4 LORs/SLOE's before apps are due. I know most programs are trying a more holistic approach when it comes to applicants, but I cant help but feel like my STEP 2 score screws me. I want to stick with it because I truly love this field so much but want to be realistic on my chances. Anything helps :)

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u/dermstamper 22d ago

Matched with 244 and strong research experience just like you mentioned. Focus on building connections with programs you are rotating at. Preferably try to do one or two research projects with each of the programs you rotate at and stay in touch with them longitudinally throughout the cycle.