u/AdFine6218

Hey everyone, looking for some advice from current ortho residents, attendings, or anyone who’s been through the match as a DO.
How important is taking USMLE Step 1 if you’re already taking COMLEX Level 1 and plan to take USMLE Step 2? Since Step 1 and Level 1 are both pass/fail now, I keep hearing completely different opinions. Some people say Step 1 is basically required, while others say most programs are fine with a Level 1 pass as long as you have a strong Step 2 score.
My current plan is to take Step 1, but if I can’t fit it in before third-year rotations, how much would that realistically hurt my chances? Would I still be competitive for most orthopedic programs with Level 1 + a strong Step 2, or is not having a Step 1 pass going to close a lot of doors?
I’d appreciate any recent experiences or program-specific insight. Thanks!

Hey everyone, looking for some advice from current ortho residents, attendings, or anyone who’s been through the match as a DO.
How important is taking USMLE Step 1 if you’re already taking COMLEX Level 1 and plan to take USMLE Step 2? Since Step 1 and Level 1 are both pass/fail now, I keep hearing completely different opinions. Some people say Step 1 is basically required, while others say most programs are fine with a Level 1 pass as long as you have a strong Step 2 score.
My current plan is to take Step 1, but if I can’t fit it in before third-year rotations, how much would that realistically hurt my chances? Would I still be competitive for most orthopedic programs with Level 1 + a strong Step 2, or is not having a Step 1 pass going to close a lot of doors?
I’d appreciate any recent experiences or program-specific insight. Thanks!