If you've been looking for a good COMLEX course, Varsity Tutors offers a comprehensive private COMLEX class to help students build their study skills in preparation for the exam. The Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination of the United States (COMLEX-USA for short) is a series of three high-stakes exams that collectively serve as the most common method of earning osteopathic medical licensure in the country. The sheer volume of topics on the test can feel overwhelming, so investing in a COMLEX prep course could be a good idea.
One of the first topics discussed in any COMLEX course is the structure and content of the specific exam you are preparing for. The bulleted list below provides a rundown of the format of all three tests:
- Level 1
- COMLEX-USA Level 1 is typically taken after completion of the second year of medical school.
- The exam consists of 400 questions administered in one day and consists of two, four-hour exam sessions separated by a 40-minute break.
- Each of the four-hour sessions allows a ten-minute break which is no longer subtracted from the time allotted for the respective four-hour sessions since the 2017 NBOME policy change.
- Candidates are expected to know the basic mechanisms of health and disease process.
- he mean score for the COMLEX-USA Level 1 is approximately 500-540 (for first time test-takers), with a standard deviation of about 85 (although this may vary slightly from year to year).
- Level 2
- COMLEX-USA Level 2, taken during the third or fourth year of medical school, consists of two parts: Level 2-Cognitive Evaluation (CE) and Level 2-Performance Evaluation (PE).
- Level 2-CE requires candidates to demonstrate knowledge of clinical concepts and medical decision-making.
- The mean score for the COMLEX-USA Level 2 CE is approximately 540 (for first time test-takers), with a standard deviation of about 100 (although this may vary slightly from year to year).
- Level 3
- he final examination, COMLEX-USA Level 3, is typically taken after starting a residency program and covers the clinical disciplines of medicine
One of the first things that jumps out of that data is how long the test is. Even Level 1 lasts eight hours with only a 40-minute break halfway through! If you're not sure you have the intellectual stamina for a test that long, a COMLEX prep class may try to mentally prepare you for the endeavor. Concentration techniques may prove beneficial, and you may also take practice exams during COMLEX class time to get a sense of what the time available to you feels like.
Once you understand the COMLEX format, it's time for your private instructor to start going over all of the topics that appear on the exam. Spoiler alert - there are a lot of them. The bulleted list below breaks down everything you might study during COMLEX prep courses:
- Level 1
- anatomy
- behavioral science
- biochemistry
- immunology
- microbiology
- neuroscience
- osteopathic principles
- pathology
- pharmacology
- physiology
- Level 2
- emergency medicine
- family medicine
- internal medicine
- obstetrics/gynecology
- osteopathic principles
- pediatrics
- psychiatry
- surgery
- Level 3
- emergency medicine
- family medicine
- internal medicine
- obstetrics/gynecology
- osteopathic principles
- pediatrics
- psychiatry
- surgery
That's a lot, but private COMLEX classes may help you break it down into more digestible chunks. For example, if you are studying for the Level 3 COMLEX and feel more confident about Pediatrics than Psychiatry, your COMLEX courses may concentrate on psychiatry to improve your study efficiency. There are no artificial time constraints associated with private tutoring, so you can spend as much time as you like on any subject.
Your private instructor may also design study sessions with your unique needs in mind. For example, a visual learner might work with flashcards to make all of the medical terminology easier to study, while a lecture format might be utilized to help an auditory learner grasp the same information. If you're an introvert concerned by the practical nature of the Level 2-PE, you could even practice social interactions with your tutor to help you prepare for it.
At Varsity Tutors, we also do everything in our power to make COMLEX test prep as convenient as possible. Our exclusive Live Learning Platform facilitates digital study sessions, so you don't have to worry about meeting with your instructor in person. We also try to connect you with an instructor who fits your scheduling needs for maximal convenience.
If you would like to learn more about our COMLEX prep classes, please contact Varsity Tutors with any questions you have. Trained Educational Directors are ready and willing to help you work toward your academic goals!
Jesse: COMLEX course instructor
...a Bachelor's in Biology from the University of Florida, I am excited to share my passion for teaching through tutoring. Although I have experience in a variety of subjects, including Anatomy & Physiology, AP Psychology, and elementary and middle school math, my focus is on helping students build foundational skills and confidence. I believe in creating a supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and engaging with the material. My approach emphasizes personalized...
Education & Certification
- University of Florida - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- English
- Medicine
- Reading
- +20 subjects
Vikas: COMLEX course instructor
...be a tutor. I am currently a third year medical student with NYITCOM at the Arkansas campus but I am doing my rotations in Memphis, TN. I would love to tutor students along the way on whichever path they may be headed on. My focus in tutoring is based on making sure the student feels comfortable and understood as they are working hard towards understanding, memorizing, and applying concepts. I employ this workflow (understanding -->...
Education & Certification
- Saint Louis University-Main Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Biochemistry
- New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine - Doctor of Medicine, Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- Biology
- IB Extended Essay
- College Biology
- +28 subjects
Katey: COMLEX course instructor
...fanatic. I love traveling to places that are the opposite of the expected, those that have yet to become tourist attractions. I do have one degree I have yet to finish: Life; and, class is in session every moment of every day. I am constantly learning, yes, from books but this degree in Life and its experiences prove often the most important. I proudly embrace my personality that I was not always confident in. I...
Education & Certification
- George Mason University - Bachelor in Arts, Business Communications
- George Mason University - Masters in Education, Teacher Education, Multiple Levels
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- CPA
- OAE - Ohio Assessments for Educators
- CPCE - Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination
- +398 subjects
Christen: COMLEX course instructor
...athletes. With 20+ local, regional, and national research presentations and 10+ publications in peer-reviewed journals, textbooks, and grants alongside five competitive research and leadership fellowships, Christen is known for her positive attitude and communicating tough topics with ease. She makes learning fun. Christen's favorite topics to tutor include science, english, reading, "Adulting", and college access topics as outlined here. In her free time, Christen enjoys movies, painting, and leisurely running with her miniature poodle.
Education & Certification
- Wright State University-Main Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
- Wright State University-Main Campus - Doctor of Medicine, Public Health
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- USMLE
- College Application Essays
- Math
- +78 subjects
John: COMLEX course instructor
...empowering students through the process of learning. I believe in instilling students with problem solving skills to enhance their educational endeavors for a lifetime. I believe in utilizing strategies of learning from my backgrounds in Communication Studies, Women's Studies Gender Studies, and Social Work. I believe in the potential for any student to achieve an A in every course and in every assignment. More so than a grade, my goal is to help students fall...
Education & Certification
- Loyola University-Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, Communication, General
- Loyola University-Chicago - Master of Social Work, Social Work
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- Exam STAM - Short-Term Actuarial Mathematics
- Bar Exam
- CAE - Certified Association Executive Exam
- +455 subjects
Neal: COMLEX course instructor
...looked to people who have accomplished my goals for help. I feel as though I have accomplished what some younger medical students would like to, and I want to help those like myself. I am an extremely hands on tutor who will work with the student to create a personalized study plan and create a learning system that will work for them. I also have strong foundations in both basic and clinical sciences, which will...
Education & Certification
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine - Professional (JD, MD, DMD, etc), Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- USMLE Step 1
- USMLE Step 2 CK
- Professional Certifications
Richard: COMLEX course instructor
...always seems to be too much to handle, and using quick mnemonics and shortcuts in order to grab big picture details to orient the students into a topic and then dive deeper into the subject has seemed to work. I am a tutor that you can rely on to learn material in a way that focuses solely on student needs. I believe a great tutor is one that adapts to the needs of the learner,...
Education & Certification
- Quinnipiac University - Bachelor of Science, Biomedical Sciences
- Rowan University - Doctor of Medicine, Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- USMLE Step 1
- SAT Subject Tests
- Professional Certifications
- +23 subjects
Evan: COMLEX course instructor
...attending medical school in the near future. I have multiple years of experience tutoring Biology courses with an emphasis on Human Anatomy and Physiology. Throughout the tutoring and learning process, I try to incorporate real life examples of how Biology and Anatomy and Physiology are all around us at any given moment. By doing this, I think it not only helps students learn more efficiently, but it makes learning more enjoyable overall.... I try to incorporate the principles of Bloom's Taxonomy into my tutoring curriculum. This provides an effective and simple manner for students to monitor how they are progressing through the given material at any one time.
Education & Certification
- Texas Lutheran University - Bachelors, Molecular Biology
- University of North Texas Health Science Center - Current Grad Student, Medical Sciences
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- NCLEX
- High School Biology
- Medical Terminology
- +37 subjects
Khaja: COMLEX course instructor
...medical school and am now applying for a family medicine residency, so I have immense experience in standardized tests. I also have more than two years of clinical experience working in hospitals and other clinical settings in a variety of medical fields. I love tutoring and I have been doing it my entire academic career. I'm comfortable with all age groups. I've tutored elementary school kids, undergrads, nurses, Med students, and residents. I tutor a...
Education & Certification
- DeVry University's Keller Graduate School of Management-Colorado - Bachelors, Telecommunications
- American University of Integrative Sciences - Doctor of Medicine, Premedicine
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- USMLE Step 1
- NCLEX-Registed Nurse
- USMLE
- +28 subjects
Jarett: COMLEX course instructor
...a day I will always remember. Seeing the training my father received in medical school come to life in our own family in the care of my sister was a pivotal experience for me. I saw a purpose to life that I hadn't seen before - serving others in moments that matter, in ways they cannot help themselves. From this day forward, I have thirsted to fulfill this purpose in my own life. My compassion...
Education & Certification
- Brigham Young University-Provo - Bachelor of Science, Biophysics
- Midwestern University-Glendale - Doctor of Medicine, Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- USMLE Step 1
- USMLE
- USMLE Step 2 CK
- +27 subjects
Yenchi: COMLEX course instructor
...recently graduated with a DO degree from New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine and currently awaiting to match into a Family Medicine Residency. I am also a graduate from St. Catherine University. I obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry with a concentration in Biochemistry. During my time in college, I served as a Teaching Assistant in a biochemistry lab. Not only I was available to students in the lab when...
Education & Certification
- St Catherine University - Bachelor of Science, Chemistry
- New York Institute of Technology - Professional (JD, MD, DMD, etc), Medicine
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- Professional Certifications
- Writing
- Essay Editing
- +10 subjects
Kaitlyn: COMLEX course instructor
...student succeed. I have been a tutor for 5+ years, and have experience teaching Math, Science, Spanish and Test Prep to students of all ages and ability. I believe every child has the potential to learn with positive one on one attention and I am committing to helping you student learn how they study best, and become a more independent learner. I look forward to meeting you, and helping you achieve your goals!
Education & Certification
- Fairfield University - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
- NUI Galway Ireland - Master of Science, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- NBOME - National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners
- USMLE
- ASTB - Aviation Selection Test Battery
- +297 subjects
James: COMLEX course instructor
...medical school, I have been passionate about sharing the knowledge I have learned throughout life. My educational journey has included earning degrees focused on exercise physiology (bachelor of science from the University of New Orleans), biomedical science (master of science from the University of New Orleans), and osteopathic medicine (doctorate from NYITCOM). I am most passionate sharing my knowledge of the human physiology, but have more than enough comfort to tutor any and all subjects...
Education & Certification
- University of New Orleans - Bachelor of Science, Health and Physical Fitness
- University of New Orleans - Master of Science, Biological and Physical Sciences
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- Kinesiology
- Nutrition
- +28 subjects
Haider: COMLEX course instructor
...and tailored learning experiences. My experience in providing personalized feedback and support, coupled with my proficiency in utilizing digital tools for teaching, positions me to excel in this role. I am eager to bring my passion for teaching and healthcare to Varsity Tutors and contribute to your student's success. I look forward to working with a team of dedicated professionals who share a common vision of transforming education and making a lasting impact on students'...
Education & Certification
- Ayub Medical College - Bachelor of Science, Community Health and Preventive Medicine
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- AAI - Accredited Adviser in Insurance
- CDR Exam - Cardiovascular Disease Recertification Exam
- USMLE Step 2 CK
- +590 subjects
Andrea: COMLEX course instructor
Hello! My name is Andrea and I am a fourth year medical student from Memphis, Tennessee! As a life-long student, I know that sometimes you just need a little push or a little help in particularly difficult classes. I'd be happy to help!
Education & Certification
- Rhodes College - Bachelor of Science, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- New York Institute of Technology - Doctor of Medicine, Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- USMLE
- Science
- High School Biology
- +77 subjects
Denisha: COMLEX course instructor
...passion includes holistic science, humanities, arts, and social sciences, including the fields of psychology, sociology, cultural and ethnic diversity, epidemiology, women's health, and conflict resolution skills. Denisha is dedicated to her innovative teaching philosophy, which is to exhibit a compassionate style with creativity, fun, and focus on constant growth through inherent limitless potential. Degrees: Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), Dr. Kiren Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, 2012. Master's in Public Health (Mph), Nova Southeastern University...
Education & Certification
- Nova Southeastern University - Doctor of Medicine, Ayurvedic Medicine
- Nova Southeastern University - Master in Public Health, Public Health
- Nova Southeastern University - Doctor of Philosophy, Peace and Conflict Resolution Studies
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- USMLE
- USMLE Step 3
- USMLE Step 1
- +78 subjects
Ashminie: COMLEX course instructor
...academic history, I am most passionate about Math and Science, however, I also have an interest in English and Literature. Also, I was an intern at a Neuroscience lab as well as worked as a medical scribe. I have spent most of my childhood reading books and spent my time in college taking numerous philosophy classes because I enjoyed being able to discuss literature. In my spare time, I love to read, run, swim, and...
Education & Certification
- University of South Florida-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Biomedical Sciences
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- NCLEX
- USMLE Step 1
- NCLEX-RN Prep Course
- +50 subjects
Aisha: COMLEX course instructor
...of a Doctorate in Osteopathic Medicine from Nova Southeastern University, I have experience tutoring subjects such as AP Biology, Algebra, and High School Chemistry. My approach centers on fostering a supportive learning environment where students feel empowered to ask questions and explore concepts deeply. I believe that every student has unique strengths, and I tailor my teaching methods to meet their individual needs, ensuring they not only grasp the material but also develop effective study...
Education & Certification
- Nova Southeastern University - Doctorate (e.g., PhD, MD, JD, etc.), Osteopathic Medicine
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- USMLE Step 1
- USMLE Step 2 CK
- AP Biology
- +26 subjects
Samuel: COMLEX course instructor
...about helping students reach their full potential. I graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor of Science degree and went on to earn my Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree. My academic journey has equipped me with a strong foundation in the sciences, and I specialize in tutoring college and medical students, particularly in the fields of neuroscience and psychiatry. Though not limited to basic science course including biology & chemistry Over the years, I...
Education & Certification
- Baylor University - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
- West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine - Doctor of Medicine, Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- USMLE Step 1
- Biology
- Medicine
- +27 subjects
Tahsin: COMLEX course instructor
...and physiology as well as all other courses in medical school I believe that great teachers can make difficult topics easy to understand. As the medical school curriculum is often compared to "sipping out of a fire hose", I have learned, painstakingly, the most efficient ways to learn difficult topics. I simply would like to pass on the knowledge, and more importantly, the process to obtain difficult material. As a physician, my understanding of these...
Education & Certification
- Villanova University - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
- Liberty University - Doctor of Medicine, Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
Subject Expertise
- COMLEX
- NCLEX
- USMLE Step 2 CK
- USMLE Step 1
- +31 subjects