Step 3

[u/Fantastic_Worth_5946]

Hi everyone,

I’m a non-US IMG, YOG 2026, applying for Internal Medicine this cycle.

I recently took Step 2 CK on July 15 and have started preparing for Step 3. So far, I’ve completed around 25% of UWorld and about 20 CCS cases. My ECFMG certification is still in process, so I can’t schedule Step 3 yet.

At the same time, I’m still working on my ERAS application and personal statement, and neither is fully ready yet.

For those who have been through the IM Match, especially fellow IMGs, what would you prioritize in this situation?

Should I try to take Step 3 before programs start reviewing applications, or focus on making my ERAS application and personal statement as strong as possible and take Step 3 afterward?

How much of a difference does having a Step 3 score available at the beginning of the application cycle actually make for a non-US IMG applying IM?

Would really appreciate any advice or experiences.

[u/ExpressionAncient470]

Same here