Average Step 2 CK Score by Specialty (2026)
Because USMLE Step 1 is now Pass/Fail, Step 2 CK is the primary numeric metric programs use to screen applicants. These are approximate matched-applicant means from NRMP Charting Outcomesdata — individual program targets vary, so aim at or above your target programs’ 75th-percentile score.
| Competitiveness | Example specialties | Mean Step 2 CK |
|---|---|---|
| Less competitive | Family Medicine, Pediatrics, PM&R | 243–247 |
| Mid competitive | Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, EM, OB/GYN, Anesthesiology | 247–251 |
| Competitive | General Surgery, Radiology, Ophthalmology | 250–254 |
| Highly competitive | Dermatology, Orthopedics, Neurosurgery, ENT, Plastic Surgery | 255–262 |
Step 2 CK Score Percentiles
The Step 2 CK score distribution centers on a mean of ~250 with a standard deviation of ~15. Here is roughly where each score lands:
| Score | Percentile | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| ≥ 265 | ~90th | Exceptional — top-tier for any specialty |
| 260 | ~75th | Very competitive, incl. surgical subspecialties |
| 250 | ~50th (median) | Solid — at or above the matched-applicant mean |
| 240 | ~30th | Below median — fine for less competitive specialties |
| 214 | — | Minimum passing score |
Why Step 2 CK Matters More in 2026
When Step 1 reported a three-digit score, programs used it as the first numeric filter. Since Step 1 became Pass/Fail in January 2022, that weight shifted almost entirely to Step 2 CK. It is now the single most important score on most residency applications — used for interview screening, ranking, and for meeting program score thresholds.
That means a “good” Step 2 CK score is the one that clears the bar for your specialty and programs. A 248 is comfortably competitive for internal medicine but below the mean for dermatology. The most useful thing you can do during dedicated study is track where your practice scores are trending and how much margin you have.
Predict your real Step 2 CK score
Enter your NBME, UWSA 2, UWorld, or Free 120 scores into our free predictor — built on 5,039 verified student outcomes and accurate to within ±5–7 points (r = 0.92 with NBME Form 14). See exactly where you stand versus the ~250 mean and your target specialty.
Use the free Step 2 CK predictor → · See accuracy & methodology →Frequently asked questions
What is the average USMLE Step 2 CK score?
The mean Step 2 CK score for U.S. MD seniors who matched in 2026 is approximately 250, with a standard deviation of about 15 points. A score at or above 250 is therefore at or above the matched-applicant median.
What is a good Step 2 CK score for residency?
It depends on your target specialty. ~245 is competitive for family medicine and pediatrics, ~250 for internal medicine and emergency medicine, and 255–262 for highly competitive specialties like dermatology, orthopedics, and plastic surgery. Aim at or above your target programs’ 75th-percentile score.
What is the Step 2 CK passing score?
The minimum passing score for USMLE Step 2 CK is 214. The USMLE periodically reviews the passing standard, so confirm the current threshold on usmle.org. Most matched applicants score far above the passing line.
Does Step 2 CK matter more now that Step 1 is Pass/Fail?
Yes. Since USMLE Step 1 became Pass/Fail in January 2022, residency programs rely much more heavily on Step 2 CK as the primary numeric screen for interviews and ranking. It is now the single most important score on most applications.
What Step 2 CK score do I need for a competitive specialty?
Highly competitive specialties (dermatology, orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, ENT, plastic surgery) have matched-applicant means in the high 250s to low 260s. To be competitive you generally want to be at or above 255–260, alongside strong research, clerkship grades, and letters.
How can I predict my Step 2 CK score before the exam?
Enter your NBME, UWSA, UWorld, or Free 120 practice scores into our free Step 2 CK predictor. It is built on 5,039 verified student outcomes and is accurate to within ±5–7 points (r = 0.92 with NBME Form 14).
Disclaimer
USMLEPredictor.com is an independent educational tool and is not affiliated with the NBME, FSMB, the USMLE program, or the NRMP. Specialty averages and percentiles are approximate and based on publicly published NRMP and USMLE data; they vary by year and program. Use them as guidance, not a guarantee, and confirm official figures on usmle.org and nrmp.org.