Candidates testing in India for Step 1 and Step 2 CK can now register for an optional, paid practice session at an actual Prometric centre. This four-hour session uses the same software, equipment and highly secure environment as the real exam, allowing Indian students to familiarize themselves with the biometric check-in, on-screen tools and break timing in a live testing setting before their official exam day.
The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) is a standardized, three-step assessment for medical licensure in the United States, and its administration is managed globally through authorized Prometric test centres. These professional testing facilities are key to maintaining the high security and uniformity required for the high-stakes USMLE exams (Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge, or CK). For candidates in India, selecting a convenient location from the numerous USMLE Exam centres in India is a critical step after receiving their scheduling permit.
The Prometric test centres are situated in major Indian cities like Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, New Delhi, and Kolkata allowing local candidates to take the first two steps of the exam without traveling abroad.
By knowing the available centres and their locations, candidates can focus on strategic preparation, manage travel logistics, and improve their chances of success in this highly competitive licensing process.
What are the USMLE Exam Centres in India (2025)?
As of 2025, USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK are available to Indian candidates at authorised Prometric test centres located in several metropolitan and regional cities across India. Step 3 is administered only in the United States and U.S. territories. International candidates who plan to take Step 3 must schedule it in the United States once they meet eligibility requirements such as ECFMG Certification (if applicable).
Below is a consolidated and easy-to-scan list of commonly reported USMLE Test Centres in India (cities that historically host Prometric USMLE testing and that candidates frequently use).
Prometric-based USMLE Test Centres in India (commonly listed cities)
City
Centre Name and Address
New Delhi / Gurgaon
Prometric Testing Pvt. Ltd., Infinity Tower A IInd Floor, Sector 25, DLF Cyber City, Gurugram, Haryana - 122002
Prometric Testing Pvt. Ltd., Millennium City, Sector-5, Bidhannagar, West Bengal-700091
Thiruvananthapuram
Prometric Testing Pvt. Ltd., KEK Towers, Vazhuthacaud, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695010
Before proceeding further, check USMLE Exam Fees in 2025 for Indian professionals
International USMLE Test Centres for Indians Living Abroad
For Indian medical graduates or professionals currently living outside India, whether on a work permit, student visa or fellowship can also give the test. Returning home to take the exam is not mandatory. The USMLE is administered globally, allowing you to choose from several international Prometric testing centres that offer the same standardized exam environment as the USMLE Exam Centres in India.
Can Indians Take the USMLE Abroad?
Yes, it is possible. All international medical graduates, including Indians living overseas, register through ECFMG and receive a scheduling permit. Using that permit, candidates can book their USMLE Test Centre in any country where Prometric offers testing for Step 1 or Step 2 CK. Your nationality does not restrict where you can appear; only your eligibility and the centre’s availability matter.
This flexibility helps Indian candidates studying or working abroad avoid travel costs and exam delays while maintaining identical testing standards worldwide.
Popular International USMLE Test Centres Outside India
The table below lists some major global locations where Indian students frequently take the USMLE exam:
Region
Common Countries
Prominent Test Cities
Middle East
United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar
Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Doha
South Asia
Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka
Kathmandu, Dhaka, Colombo
East & Southeast Asia
Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong
Singapore, Tokyo, Seoul
Europe
United Kingdom, Germany, Poland, France
London, Berlin, Warsaw, Paris
North America
United States, Canada
New York, Chicago, Toronto
Australia & Oceania
Australia, New Zealand
Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland
In short, whether you are studying in the UK or working in Dubai, you can take your USMLE at the nearest Prometric centre without returning to India. The same eligibility, scoring, and security procedures apply globally.
Which Exam Step is Available in USMLE Test Centres in India?
You can give Step-1 and Step-2 Ck are available in India. Step-3 has to be given in USA. As of 2025, Indian candidates can complete most of the process without leaving the country.
Here’s a breakdown of USMLE steps and their availability:
USMLE Step
Where It Is Conducted
Key Details
Step 1
Prometric USMLE Test Centres in India
Computer-based test focusing on medical science fundamentals.
Step 2 CK
Prometric USMLE Centres in India
Tests clinical reasoning and patient care through MCQs.
Step 3
Conducted only in the USA
Final step for independent medical practice.
Important updates:
Earlier USMLE exam took Step-2 CS (Clinical Skills) which required candidates to travel to US for that. It was discontinued permanently since 2021 removing the need for travel to the U.S. for that component.
Candidates must complete Steps 1 and 2 CK before applying for Step 3 in the United States.
This setup allows Indian graduates to progress significantly in their USMLE journey within India before moving on to U.S.-based stages of licensure.
Searching for a suitable exam date? Read the USMLE Exam Dates guide to find out upcoming dates and schedules.
How to Choose and Book a USMLE Test Centre in India
Booking the right USMLE Exam Centre in India requires completing a structured registration and scheduling process. The Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) manages registration for international candidates, while Prometric handles the physical test scheduling.
Steps to Book Your USMLE Centre
Follow these clear steps to book a test centre efficiently:
Register with ECFMG: Begin by applying for Step 1 or Step 2 CK through the ECFMG website. Once approved, you’ll receive a scheduling permit.
Visit the Prometric Website: Go to the official Prometric USMLE page (www.prometric.com) and select “USMLE” under available exams.
Choose Exam Step: Pick either Step 1 or Step 2 CK (Step 3 is not shown for India).
Select Testing Region: Choose India as your testing country, then pick your preferred city from the list of available USMLE Centres in India.
Pick a Date and Time Slot: Check available dates within your eligibility period (mentioned on your permit).
Confirm and Pay (if applicable): Proceed with booking confirmation. Prometric will send an email confirmation for your scheduled appointment.
Tips for Smooth Booking
Choose a test centre closest to your current city to reduce travel stress.
Book early, ideally 2–3 months in advance to secure your preferred slot.
Always double-check your scheduling permit before confirming any appointment.
Booking your test through Prometric-operated USMLE Centres in India ensures access to standardized facilities that meet international testing norms.
How to Check Seat Availability for USMLE Exam Centres in India
Since demand for USMLE Test Centres in India is high year-round, checking seat availability before booking is a crucial step.
Step-by-Step Guide to Check Availability
Login to Prometric: Visit the Prometric website and log in using your Candidate ID and Scheduling Permit number.
Select Exam and Step: Choose “USMLE” as your exam, then select Step 1 or Step 2 CK.
Choose Country and City: Set India as your country and select the city nearest to you (e.g., Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad).
View Available Dates: The system will show live seat availability for each centre during your eligibility window.
Select and Confirm: Once you find a suitable date, immediately proceed with booking. Slots fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Quick Tips:
Check the Prometric portal frequently, as new slots open periodically.
Avoid waiting until the final month of your eligibility period.
Keep all documents (passport, permit) ready for hassle-free scheduling.
By proactively tracking seat availability, candidates can ensure they secure a convenient slot at one of the authorized USMLE Exam Centres in India without last-minute stress or delays.
Rules and Guidelines at USMLE Prometric Centres in India
On the exam day, all candidates must strictly follow the official Prometric test centre rules and USMLE regulations. These rules ensure the security and uniformity of the exam process across all USMLE Centres in India and abroad. Non-compliance can lead to disqualification, so it’s crucial to be well-prepared.
Key Exam Day Requirements
Valid ID: Only an original passport is accepted as identification at Prometric centres. Other IDs (like Aadhaar or PAN) are not allowed.
Scheduling Permit: Carry a printed copy of your USMLE scheduling permit; it will be checked at the entry point.
Arrival Time: Reach the centre at least 30 minutes early for check-in and verification.
Biometric Verification: Expect fingerprint scans and photographs before entering the testing room.
Personal Items: Bags, phones, notes, watches, and electronic devices are strictly prohibited. Lockers are provided to store belongings.
Breaks and Timers: Short breaks are permitted, but the exam clock continues unless otherwise specified.
Tip: Familiarize yourself with the Prometric testing environment using the Prometric Test Drive feature — it helps reduce anxiety and avoid surprises on exam day.
These rules apply uniformly across all USMLE Test Centres in India, ensuring every candidate receives a standardized and fair test experience.
Key Tips Before Booking a USMLE Test Centre
Booking a slot at USMLE Exam Centres in India requires both planning and awareness of your eligibility timeline. A few smart steps can save you unnecessary stress later.
Best Practices for Booking
Tip
Why It Matters
Book early (2–3 months in advance)
Prometric centres in India fill up quickly, especially in peak months like May–August.
Choose the nearest city
Saves time, travel expenses, and fatigue before the exam.
Avoid overlapping eligibility periods
Missing your validity window means reapplying through ECFMG.
Recheck all details before payment
Wrong step selection (Step 1 vs Step 2 CK) can lead to rescheduling hassles.
Keep backups of all emails and receipts
Proof of booking may be needed for rescheduling or refund requests.
Additional Pointers
Always confirm technical compatibility and test duration for your step.
If you need special accommodations, apply in advance through ECFMG/Prometric support.
Don’t rely on third-party sites for slot updates. Use only the official Prometric portal.
By following these practical tips, Indian medical graduates can ensure a smooth and stress-free booking experience at any authorized USMLE Centres in India.
Conclusion
Choosing the right USMLE Exam Centre in India is a crucial step toward beginning your medical career in the United States. With multiple Prometric-operated centres across cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Hyderabad, candidates can conveniently appear for Step 1 and Step 2 CK without travelling abroad. Understanding each centre’s facilities, rules, and booking process helps ensure a smooth experience.
For Indian medical graduates aiming for U.S. licensure, early planning and smart scheduling at authorized USMLE Centres in India can make a major difference. By staying informed about availability, international options, and exam-day requirements, you can confidently move closer to your goal of practising medicine in the U.S.
How do I find out if my chosen Prometric centre in India is currently active for USMLE testing?
You can verify active USMLE Exam Centres in India directly on the official Prometric scheduling portal. Only active, authorized centres appear in the list during slot selection, ensuring updated and valid availability.
Can I change my USMLE test city in India after scheduling the exam?
Yes, candidates can reschedule or change their USMLE test city through the Prometric website. However, this depends on slot availability and may involve additional fees for rescheduling, so plan your booking carefully.
Are testing conditions the same across all USMLE Centres in India and abroad?
Yes. All Prometric-operated USMLE Centres in India and overseas follow identical testing conditions, including security checks, exam software, and time structure, to ensure global standardization of the USMLE examination process.
Do USMLE Exam Centres in India allow differently-abled candidates to request accommodations?
Yes, candidates can apply for special testing accommodations through ECFMG and Prometric in advance. Approved requests are handled confidentially, and centres provide necessary arrangements according to the candidate’s documented needs.
How early should I reach my USMLE test centre on the exam day?
Candidates must arrive at least 30–45 minutes early to complete check-in, identity verification, and biometric scanning procedures. Late arrivals may lose eligibility to sit for the exam that day.
What happens if there’s a technical issue or power outage during the USMLE at a Prometric centre?
In case of technical interruptions, the Prometric staff will immediately pause the exam and resume once resolved. Your progress is automatically saved, ensuring no loss of responses or testing time.
Are walk-in registrations allowed at any USMLE Test Centres in India?
No. Walk-in registrations are not permitted. All candidates must register through ECFMG, receive their scheduling permit, and book their slot online via the official Prometric scheduling system before the exam date.
Can I take both Step 1 and Step 2 CK at the same Prometric centre in India?
Yes, many candidates choose to take both Step 1 and Step 2 CK at the same Prometric test centre if slots are available. However, scheduling must be done separately for each step.
What is the rescheduling policy if I can’t attend my USMLE exam on the booked date?
You can reschedule through the Prometric portal before your test date, but fees apply based on how close to the appointment you make changes. Avoid last-minute cancellations to prevent higher charges.
Is there any difference in scoring or difficulty level for exams taken in India vs abroad?
No. The USMLE uses a uniform scoring system globally. The difficulty level, grading standards, and question banks remain the same across all testing centres, including those in India and other countries.
Do Prometric centres in India provide scratch paper or erasable boards during the USMLE?
Yes. Candidates receive an erasable noteboard and marker for rough work. Personal paper, notes, or pens are not allowed inside the testing area at any USMLE Exam Centre in India.
How can I verify that my booking confirmation for a USMLE centre in India is valid and secure?
A valid confirmation email from Prometric includes your appointment number, date, time, and centre details. Cross-check these with your ECFMG permit; discrepancies should be reported immediately through Prometric’s support channel.
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