USMLE Step 3 is given over two days. Day 1 has 232 questions in 12 blocks, and Day 2 has 180 questions in 9 blocks plus 13 or 14 computer case simulations. The minimum passing score is 200. Biostatistics and Epidemiology (11–13%) and Cardiovascular (9–11%) lead the published shares, and Study Scheduler gives the case simulations their own topic.
Ranked by share of the exam weighted against Study Scheduler's difficulty rating, not share alone, since a smaller topic rated harder can be worth more study time than a bigger, easier one.
1Computer case simulations (CCS)13–14 cases on Day 2
Ordering and interpreting tests · Initial management · Follow-up and monitoring · Timing and patient location
2Cardiovascular System9–11%
Initial workup · Continuing care · Urgent intervention · Diagnosis
3Nervous System & Special Senses8–10%
Initial workup · Continuing care · Urgent intervention · Diagnosis
Full Step 3 topic breakdown.
Every topic in the official USMLE content outline, with its share of the exam. Computer case simulations have no published share, so Study Scheduler sizes them as an estimate. Study Scheduler allocates your study hours in this same proportion automatically.
Biostatistics, Epidemiology/Population Health & Interpretation of Medical Literature11–13%
Study design
Interpreting results
Screening and prevention
Statistical tests
Bias and confounding
Appraising the medical literature
Cardiovascular System9–11%
Initial workup
Continuing care
Urgent intervention
Diagnosis
Management
Pharmacotherapy
Prognosis
Nervous System & Special Senses8–10%
Initial workup
Continuing care
Urgent intervention
Diagnosis
Management
Pharmacotherapy
Prognosis
Respiratory System8–10%
Initial workup
Continuing care
Urgent intervention
Diagnosis
Management
Pharmacotherapy
Prognosis
Pregnancy, Childbirth, Female Reproductive System & Breast7–9%
Prenatal care
Labor and delivery
Postpartum care
Initial workup
Diagnosis
Management
Pharmacotherapy
Social Sciences: Communication, Ethics & Patient Safety7–9%
Renal/Urinary System & Male Reproductive System4–6%
Initial workup
Continuing care
Urgent intervention
Diagnosis
Management
Pharmacotherapy
Prognosis
Human Development1–3%
Normal growth and development
Aging and geriatric care
Health maintenance
Computer case simulations (CCS)13–14 cases on Day 2
Ordering and interpreting tests
Initial management
Follow-up and monitoring
Timing and patient location
Surveillance and prevention
Frequently asked about Step 3.
What is tested on USMLE Step 3?
Multiple-choice questions organized by organ system and by clinical task, plus biostatistics, ethics, patient safety and communication. Day 2 adds 13 or 14 computer case simulations where you manage a patient over time.
How does Study Scheduler handle the case simulations?
USMLE publishes no percentage for them. It says only that the case simulations count toward your score no more than their share of testing time. Study Scheduler gives them a topic of their own, sized as an estimate of roughly a fifth of your study hours, so they are practiced on purpose.
Can I study for Step 3 during residency?
Yes. Step 3 usually takes far fewer hours than Step 1 or Step 2 CK. Enter your real weekly hours, mark your recurring days off and add the shifts you already know about, and the plan tells you whether your test date fits.
For how many hours to budget, week-by-week study plans, and how Study Scheduler weights your plan — see the full USMLE study guide.
Example plan · USMLE
See the week. Take the next step.
Your schedule combines topic study, review, mock practice, and time away. Actual blocks depend on your exam, study budget, and days off.