How Long Is Step 1 of the USMLE? (And How to Survive Test Day) | MedSchoolBro

If you’re asking yourself how long is Step 1 of the USMLE, chances are you’re somewhere between nervous curiosity and full-on burnout. You’ve been studying for weeks—maybe months—and now you want to know what to expect on the big day.

Let’s break it down so you can plan smart, perform well, and avoid unnecessary stress.

You’re Not the Only One Asking

Every med student hits this question sooner or later: How long is Step 1? And it makes sense—this isn’t just a test. It’s a marathon. You’ve spent hundreds of hours preparing, but if you don’t go into test day with the right mindset and logistics, all that work can start to unravel.

The good news? Understanding the test structure ahead of time gives you a serious edge.

How Long Is Step 1 of the USMLE?

Here’s the short answer: Step 1 of the USMLE is approximately 8 hours long.

Here’s how it breaks down:

• 7 blocks of questions, each 60 minutes long
  
• Up to 40 questions per block
  
• 45 minutes of break time (you can manage this how you want)
  
• 15-minute optional tutorial (skip it if you’ve done the practice version beforehand)
  

That’s a full day of high-stakes testing. And while it sounds brutal, it’s manageable—if you go in with the right strategy.

What to Expect (So You’re Not Caught Off Guard)

It’s not just about how long is Step 1—it’s about how to last through it. You’ll need mental endurance, time management, and a tight review of high-yield topics.

Pro tips:

• Bring a plan for breaks (snacks, hydration, a clear head)
  
• Know your weak spots so you’re not wasting mental energy mid-block
  
• Practice full-length test days before the real one—your brain needs to build stamina, not just knowledge
  

Real Talk: This Isn’t Just About Clock Time

Step 1 tests more than just content. It tests your ability to stay sharp under pressure, stay focused for hours, and think critically even when you’re exhausted.

If you’re prepping and still feeling scattered, it might not be about studying harder—it might be time to study smarter.

Ready to Dominate Step 1? We Built Resources That Actually Work

When we designed our USMLE Step 1 resources, we didn’t just throw facts on a page. We combined physiology, pharmacology, and pathology into one place, added custom illustrations, and packed in mnemonics that help you remember what matters when it counts.

If you’re gearing up for test day, give yourself tools that are made for retention—not just repetition.

Check out the full Step 1 collection here: Shop USMLE Step 1 Resources