Episode 84: The Science Behind the USMLE

For many pre-meds, the USMLE Step exams are a distant, high-stakes mystery. We know they can be the "gatekeeper" to residency, but who actually decides what's on the test - and why is it designed the way it is? In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on how the "USMLE sausage" gets made. Joining us are Dr. Amanda Clauser (VP of Psychometrics and Data Analysis) and Dr. Dan Jurich (AVP for the USMLE program) from National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME). We dive into the rigorous science of exam design, how the experts ensure fairness and equity, and what it actually takes to build a licensing exam that protects public health while supporting the next generation of doctors.

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This podcast is hosted, edited, and produced by: Christian Essman

RESOURCES: 

USMLE 

NBME