USMLE Exam Fees 2026

Updated on Jan 06, 2026 | 9.61K+ views

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USMLE Exam Fee Structure 2026
Payment Methods for USMLE Exam Fees
Budgeting Tips for USMLE Costs
Conclusion

For 2026, the USMLE exam fees reflect the latest updates from ECFMG and FSMB. The primary registration fee for USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK is ₹61,160 (USD 695), applicable to eligibility periods starting late 2025 through late 2026. For candidates proceeding to USMLE Step 3, the fee is around ₹84,140 (USD 955). Additional costs may apply, including eligibility period extension fees of ₹6,160–₹8,800 (USD 70–100) and international testing surcharges, such as India’s GST.

Understanding the complete USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) exam fee structure is essential for international medical graduates (IMGs) planning their licensure journey in the United States. This guide will cover the stepwise USMLE fees, additional costs like study materials and travel, accepted payment methods, budgeting tips, and more.

USMLE Exam Fee Structure 2026

Planning for the USMLE from India in 2026 requires a clear understanding of the exam fees to manage your budget effectively. The total cost depends on the exam step, regional surcharges, and optional expenses such as rescheduling, travel, and study materials.

1. Complete USMLE Exam Fees 2026

Exam / Service	Fee (INR / USD)	Notes
Step 1	₹61,160 (USD 695)	Core exam for medical knowledge
Step 2 CK	₹61,160 (USD 695)	Clinical knowledge assessment
Step 3	₹84,140 (USD 955)	Final step for licensure (FSMB)
Eligibility Period Extension (Step 1/2 CK)	₹8,800 (USD 100)	Extend exam window
Testing Region Change (Step 1/2 CK)	₹7,920 (USD 90)	Per region change
Rescheduling Fee (Step 1/2 CK)	₹0–₹53,152 (USD 0–604)	Depends on timing and region
Score Recheck (Step 1/2 CK)	₹7,040 (USD 80)	Optional
Application for ECFMG Certification	₹49,280 (USD 560)	Required for IMGs
Verification of Credentials	₹17,600 (USD 200)	Includes $100 diploma + $100 transcript
MyIntealth Account Establishment	₹8,800 (USD 100)	Includes notarization fee
Pathways Application	₹81,400 (USD 925)	For ECFMG certification via pathways

2. Regional Surcharges

International candidates taking the USMLE outside the United States and Canada must pay an International Test Delivery Surcharge in addition to the base exam fee.

No surcharge applies if you test in the United States or Canada.
For all other regions (including India), the following surcharges apply:
- Step 1 surcharge: ₹18,400 (USD 210), effective January 1, 2026
- Step 2 CK surcharge: ₹20,600 (USD 235), effective January 1, 2026

3. Optional Costs to Budget

Expense Type	Estimated Cost (INR / USD)
Rescheduling / Special Accommodations	₹8,800–₹22,000 (USD 100–250)
Travel (Flights)	₹70,000–₹1,20,000 (USD 850–1,400)
Accommodation (per night)	₹4,500–₹13,000 (USD 50–150)
Study Materials (Books)	₹4,500–₹13,000 (USD 50–150)
Online Prep Courses	₹26,000–₹1,05,000 (USD 300–1,200)

Note: Costs vary depending on your city, test center, and study preferences.

4. Total Estimated Cost in India

Including exam fees, surcharges, study materials, and travel, Indian candidates can expect to spend approximately:

₹3.8–₹4.8 lakh (USD 4,400–5,500) for all three steps.

Note: Students testing from the US or Canada pay lower fees ₹59,840 (USD 680) for Step 1 and Step 2 CK, and ₹84,140 (USD 955) for Step 3 with no regional surcharges. Travel costs are minimal since the exams are taken domestically.

Also Read: USMLE Exam Dates 2026: Complete Schedule and Updates

Payment Methods for USMLE Exam Fees

Paying your USMLE exam fees correctly is essential to secure your registration and avoid delays. The USMLE offers multiple payment options, depending on whether you are a US/Canadian candidate or an international candidate. Understanding these methods ensures a smooth registration process and helps you plan your finances effectively.

1. Accepted Payment Options

Payment Method	Details
Credit/Debit Cards	Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted for US and international candidates. Ensure your card has sufficient funds for the total amount, including surcharges and optional fees.
Wire Transfer / Bank Transfer	Primarily used by international candidates who cannot use credit cards. Wire transfers should be completed according to the instructions provided by USMLE or ECFMG.
Online Payment Portals	Payments are processed securely via the official USMLE registration portal. Candidates receive a confirmation email once the transaction is successful.

2. Payment Timing

Early Payment: Pay at the time of registration to secure your exam slot. Early payment ensures smooth scheduling and avoids complications with eligibility period deadlines.
Late Payment: Delayed payments may lead to additional administrative charges. For 2026, late registration adjustments can cost ₹8,800–₹13,200 (USD 100–150) depending on timing and exam step.
Refunds: Partial refunds are available if you cancel your registration under USMLE/ECFMG guidelines. However, cancellations made less than 7 days before the scheduled exam date are non‑refundable, meaning you forfeit the full fee.

3. Important Tips for International Candidates

Currency Conversion: Payments in USD may involve foreign currency conversion fees from your bank.
Regional Surcharges: Include the extra fees for international test centers when calculating your total payment.
Confirmation: After payment, always check your email for confirmation. Keep a copy of the receipt until you have completed your exam.
Avoid Third-Party Payments: Only pay through the official USMLE or ECFMG portal to prevent fraudulent charges.

4. Budgeting for Payment

Calculate the base exam fees + regional surcharge + rescheduling or accommodation costs.
Prepare for transaction fees and any currency conversions if paying from outside the US.
Keep funds available for potential retries in case you need to reschedule.

For a more detailed breakdown of USMLE Step-wise fees, surcharges, and additional costs, check out our comprehensive guide on USMLE Exam Fees for Step 1, 2 & 3. 

Budgeting Tips for USMLE Costs

Proper budgeting is essential when planning for the USMLE exams. The total cost can vary significantly depending on the exam step, location, prep materials, and travel requirements. By understanding all possible expenses in advance, you can avoid financial stress and focus on preparing for the exam.

Proper budgeting is essential when planning for the USMLE exams in 2026. The total cost depends on the exam step, international surcharges, prep materials, and travel requirements. By understanding all possible expenses in advance, you can avoid financial stress and focus on exam preparation.

1. Break Down Your Costs

Expense Type	Verified Cost (INR / USD)	Source
USMLE Step Fees (Step 1, Step 2 CK, Step 3)	₹61,160–₹84,140 (USD 695–955) per step	ECFMG Fees Overview, FSMB Step 3 Fees
International Surcharges (India)	₹18,000–₹20,000 (USD 205–230) per exam	ECFMG Surcharge Table
Rescheduling / Cancellation Fees	₹8,800–₹13,200 (USD 100–150) depending on timing	ECFMG Fees Overview
Study Materials & Prep Courses	₹4,500–₹1,05,000 (USD 50–1,200)	Market averages (coaching providers)

2. Step‑Wise Budget Planning

Step 1: Base fee ₹61,160 (USD 695) + surcharge ₹18,000 (USD 205) + study materials. Total ≈ ₹1.05–₹1.3 lakh (USD 1,200–1,500).
Step 2 CK: Base fee ₹61,160 (USD 695) + surcharge ₹20,000 (USD 230) + prep courses/Qbanks. Total ≈ ₹1.1–₹1.4 lakh (USD 1,250–1,600).
Step 3: Fee ₹84,140 (USD 955). Add travel/accommodation if taken in the US.

3. Tips to Save Money

Register Early: Avoid late registration fees.
Use Official Materials Wisely: Stick to essential prep books and Qbanks.
Choose Affordable Test Centers: Regional surcharges vary; select strategically.
Combine Travel with Exam Schedule: If taking multiple steps abroad, plan efficiently.
Track All Payments: Keep receipts for exam‑related transactions.

Also check out: List of USMLE Exam Centers in India

Conclusion

Understanding the USMLE exam fees in 2026 is crucial for international medical graduates, especially those applying from India. With the USMLE Step 1 exam fee set at ₹61,160 (USD 695), Step 2 CK at the same rate, and Step 3 at ₹84,140 (USD 955), plus international surcharges and optional costs, the total investment can reach ₹3.8–₹4.8 lakh (USD 4,400–5,500). Careful budgeting for exam registration, study materials, and travel ensures you stay financially prepared while focusing on exam success. By planning ahead and tracking every expense, you can manage the financial side of your USMLE journey with confidence and clarity.

For personalized help, Book a 1:1 consultation with our expert consultants to help planning for USMLE expenses in 2026 

FAQs

Is USMLE harder than NEET?

Many medical students wonder how USMLE compares to NEET. While NEET tests medical knowledge at an undergraduate level in India, USMLE exams assess clinical knowledge, reasoning, and the ability to practice medicine in the U.S. The difficulty varies depending on your background and preparation strategy.

Which country has the highest USMLE passing rate?

Passing rates often differ by country due to variations in medical education systems. Historically, graduates from the United States and Canada tend to have higher pass rates, while international graduates may face more challenges due to differences in curriculum and exam style.

Is USMLE Step 1 the hardest exam?

Step 1 is widely considered challenging because it tests detailed knowledge of basic medical sciences. However, many candidates also find Step 2 CK difficult because it evaluates the practical application of clinical knowledge under exam conditions. Difficulty can vary by individual strengths.

Can I pay USMLE fees in installments?

Some candidates wonder if the USMLE allows partial payments. Currently, the exam fees must be paid in full at the time of registration. Planning your budget ahead of time helps avoid any last-minute payment issues.

Do USMLE fees include study materials?

USMLE registration fees cover only the exam itself. Official prep books, practice tests, and online courses are separate and optional expenses. Candidates should budget for these resources depending on their preparation style.

Are USMLE fees refundable if I cancel?

Many candidates ask if they can get a refund for canceled exams. Refund policies depend on the timing of the cancellation: late cancellations often are non-refundable, while early cancellations may be eligible for partial refunds.

How often do USMLE fees change?

USMLE fees are updated periodically, usually annually. Candidates planning their exams should monitor official announcements to anticipate any fee increases and budget accordingly.

Can international students pay USMLE fees in local currency?

International candidates typically pay in U.S. dollars. Currency conversion fees may apply depending on the bank or payment method used. Planning for these extra charges is important to avoid unexpected costs.

Does taking multiple USMLE steps at once reduce fees?

There’s no fee discount for taking multiple steps simultaneously. Each step has its own fee and must be registered and paid for separately. Candidates should budget for each step individually.

Are there hidden costs in USMLE registration?

Apart from the base fee, additional costs can arise from rescheduling, regional surcharges, travel, lodging, or optional prep courses. Planning ahead ensures you account for all potential expenses.

Can I pay USMLE fees through third-party services?

Payment must always be made through the official USMLE or ECFMG portals. Third-party services are not authorized and may lead to failed registration or fraudulent charges. Always verify the payment source before proceeding.

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