If you want to take a San Diego USMLE class, get in touch with Varsity Tutors. The USMLE, or United States Medical Licensing Exam, is a series of three standardized tests taken by individuals seeking licensure for the unsupervised practice of medicine in the U.S. The exams are cumulative, meaning that you're going to need to remember everything you've studied at a local med school such as the University of California San Diego School of Medicine. If the sheer volume of material has you feeling completely overwhelmed, let us help you break the material into more easily digestible bits.
For instance, it's logical to study for each USMLE test individually, not thinking about the next one until you get past the current one. The individual exams are called "Steps" and are numbered, so it's easy to determine which one you take next. Generally speaking, students take Step 1 following their second year of med school, Step 2 during their fourth year, and Step 3 as the final step before actually practicing medicine. Keep reading to learn more about how we might be able to help you.
What concepts are generally covered in a San Diego USMLE course?
Step 1 of the USMLE is a science test that measures your understanding of core bodily functions such as the endocrine and nervous systems. You have approximately 240 multiple-choice questions in seven blocks of 60 minutes, so you will be testing for an entire day. If you struggle to maintain concentration over long periods of time, your instructor can teach you how to focus for exam day.
Part 2 is split into two separate tests taken on different days: Clinical Knowledge and Clinical Skills. Clinical Knowledge utilizes a comparable format to Step 1, except that you have roughly 316 questions to answer over eight 60-minute blocks. Clinical Skills is more of a practical exam, where you'll meet with 12 "patients" (actually actors) in order to diagnose what might be wrong and recommend follow-up tests. Clinical Skills essentially grades you on your communication skills, so you might role-play several scenarios with your instructor and your fellow students to have an idea of what to expect.
Finally, Part 3 is a two-part test taken over consecutive days. Day one follows a format comparable to Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge, as you have six blocks of 60 minutes to answer approximately 233 multiple-choice questions. The key difference is that the questions deal with medical specializations as opposed to general science. Day two also has multiple-choice items (180, split into six 45-minute blocks), but is more notable for its 13 computer-based case simulations designed to assess how well you would do as a practicing physician. Some students get intimidated by the electronic interface on these simulations, so your instructor may give you sample questions to work on so that there are no surprises on test day.
What are a few of the benefits of taking a San Diego USMLE course?
Every class provided by Varsity Tutors consists of a group of students meeting a knowledgeable instructor online for maximum convenience. Our proprietary Live Learning Platform allows you to see and hear everyone in your class as if you were in the same room, so asking for help is as easy as putting your hand up. You can also trust your teacher to provide accurate information, as there is an extensive vetting process in place to ensure that instructors are working with current USMLE concepts and strategies.
Studying in a group also offers several advantages over trying to go it alone. For example, completing group assignments can help you approach clinical cases in new ways, potentially helping you figure out what's wrong when you couldn't on your own. You can also help your classmates with anything they may be struggling with, reinforcing your own knowledge base while simultaneously gaining the satisfaction of helping somebody else.
Studying in a group also provides superior value for your money, as everyone can chip in on the cost of your San Diego USMLE class instructor. If you feel as though you could benefit from individualized attention, you also have the right to book private time with your instructor on an as-needed basis.
We also try to make attending a San Diego USMLE class as convenient as possible. Everything takes place online, so you never need to worry about sitting in traffic to get to a meeting. We also offer multiple class sessions simultaneously, including two and four-week options to accommodate nearly any schedule. New classes start up monthly, so you don't need to wait too long before getting started.
Can I sign up for a San Diego USMLE course right now?
Absolutely. Simply contact an Educational Consultant using the information provided below to learn more about how Varsity Tutors can enroll you in a San Diego USMLE prep course today. We look forward to hearing from you!
Nikolas: San Diego USMLE course instructor
...named an OSU Scholar Athlete four times, and selected to the Academic All-Big Ten team two times. I will be beginning medical school in August of 2016. Before that begins, I am working as a personal trainer/performance coach, in addition to tutoring. While I can tutor a variety of subjects, I am most effective in teaching science courses. I also am able to help students with test prep, especially the MCAT. My goal as a...
Education & Certification
- Ohio State University-Main Campus - Bachelors, Exercise Science Education
Subject Expertise
- USMLE
- ACT
- Essay Editing
- AP Biology
- +85 subjects
Education & Certification
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln - Bachelor of Science, Chemistry
Subject Expertise
- USMLE
- Science
- Chemistry
- AP Chemistry
- +11 subjects
Oygul: San Diego USMLE course instructor
...smart, regardless of where they started. One of the challenges of MCAT preparation is integrating the content from the science courses taken in college simply due to its overwhelming volume. I like to teach critical thinking skills that can be applied throughout all of the MCAT sections and beyond, including in medical school. Forgetting a name or a fact does not mean all is lost; it is the understanding of fundamental concepts that matters.... My teaching approach is based on the premise that intelligence is malleable. During my undergraduate years and teaching, I met a lot of students with deterministic view about their learning abilities, and saw how this belief affected them in areas they thought they were "not good at."? Usually, these students were worried about the outcome (grades) more than their performance during the course. I help alleviate their anxiety about grades by redirecting their attention to their learning habits.
Education & Certification
- CUNY Bernard M Baruch College - Bachelors, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- USMLE
- USMLE Step 1
- Middle School Science
- Physics
- +86 subjects
Sabrina: San Diego USMLE course instructor
...Health and completed all required pre-medical course work. I have a wealth of experience when it comes to tutoring as well as utilizing tutors myself. I spent two years teaching both private and class-room based instruction for the MCAT through Examkrackers and Varsity Tutors. Recently, I have private tutored students in USMLE Step 1 and Step 2. I scored in the 88th percentile on Step 1 and 99th percentile for Step 2. One of my...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelors, History of Science, Medicine and Public Health
Subject Expertise
- USMLE
- Pre-Algebra
- Science
- AP Biology
- +32 subjects
Jarett: San Diego USMLE course instructor
...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 for those in need, coupled with my desire for meaning is what sparked my unchanging ambition in pursuing a career in medicine. While many experiences have played a role in confirming my desire to become a doctor, perhaps the most pivotal moment came one afternoon in the...
Education & Certification
- Brigham Young University-Provo - Bachelor of Science, Biophysics
- Midwestern University-Glendale - Doctor of Medicine, Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
Subject Expertise
- USMLE
- COMLEX
- USMLE Step 2 CK
- USMLE Step 1
- +27 subjects
Sugi: San Diego USMLE course instructor
...in Cognitive Science and Biochemistry & Cell Biology. I have served on admissions interview committees for Rice and Baylor College of Medicine, have mentored and edited essays for numerous college and graduate school applicants, and served as a private tutor and classroom instructor for Advanced Biology and Chemistry courses for 3+ years. I am passionate about creating custom, individualized teaching plans for each student. Feel free to reach out for any math, science, or admissions-related...
Education & Certification
- Rice University - Bachelor in Arts, Cognitive Science
- Baylor College of Medicine - Doctor of Medicine, Ophthalmic Technology
Subject Expertise
- USMLE
- USMLE Step 1
- NBME - National Board of Medical Examiners
- Chemistry
- +59 subjects
Ashutosh: San Diego USMLE course instructor
I have been tutoring for the past 5 years. My quality of providing a student specific help makes me a great tutor. I am very good at analyzing a student and finding out the areas where a student needs strengthening.
Education & Certification
- CUNY Hunter College - Bachelors, Biochemistry
Subject Expertise
- USMLE
- Chemistry
- Middle School Math
- Algebra
- +20 subjects
George: San Diego USMLE course instructor
...school. The subjects areas I have tutored range from Organic Chemistry and Cellular Biology to English and Mathematics. My goal in tutoring students is to specialize a learning method which not only aides the student in learning the subject material but also that provides them with understanding of the bigger picture and main concepts behind the material. I love tutoring because nothing gives me more satisfaction than helping students achieve the academic success I know...
Education & Certification
- University of California, Merced - Bachelor of Science, Human Biology
Subject Expertise
- USMLE
- Elementary School Math
- Molecular Biology
- Chemistry
- +19 subjects
Dave: San Diego USMLE course instructor
...significant experience. I take great enjoyment from helping students at all levels meet (and often exceed!) their goals. Generally, I apply the principles that worked for me as a student - as well as for past students I've tutored - in order to give my students the knowledge and tools to succeed in their classes and on their exams. I'm currently taking a gap year before starting my radiology residency in New York City, and...
Education & Certification
- Touro College - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
- Stony Brook University School of Medicine - Doctor of Medicine, Biomedical Sciences
Subject Expertise
- USMLE
- Life Sciences
- IB Biology
- College Chemistry
- +23 subjects
Kara: San Diego USMLE course instructor
...naturopathic doctor, I am not only proficient in basic sciences and medical diagnostic and reasoning, but also in subjects such as botanical medicine, homeopathy, nutrition, physical medicine, and other similar holistic health subjects. I am able to help those looking to study for MCAT, USMLE, or NPLEX exams, as I just finished passing all my exams and the information and study techniques are fresh in my mind. At the moment I am available to help...
Education & Certification
- Central Connecticut State University - Bachelor in Arts, International and Intercultural Communication
- University of Bridgeport - Doctor of Medicine, Naturopathic Medicine
Subject Expertise
- USMLE
- Science
- High School Biology
- Other
- +10 subjects
Christen: San Diego USMLE course instructor
...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
- USMLE
- COMLEX
- ACT English
- Genetics
- +78 subjects
Natasha: San Diego USMLE course instructor
I am a fourth year medical student who is interested in tutoring any biological or medical science. I also have a graduate degree in public health (MPH) so can work with students or graduate related to writing, editing or resume building. I enjoy having students tailor sessions to their needs and personal learning style. I encourage positive interaction and self esteem building for standardized exams. I look forward to working with you!
Education & Certification
- Emmanuel College - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
- Tufts University - Master in Public Health, Public Health
Subject Expertise
- USMLE
- Medical Ethics
- AP Biology
- Elementary School Reading
- +31 subjects
Stephen: San Diego USMLE course instructor
Hello, my name is Stephen! I love to learn and make sense of the world around me. I bring this enthusiastic style to tutoring sessions, and my goal working with students is not only to help improve test scores, but to actually have fun making connections with the material.
Education & Certification
- Loras College - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
- Southern Illinois University School of Medicine - Doctor of Medicine, Community Health and Preventive Medicine
Subject Expertise
- USMLE
- USMLE Step 3
- USMLE Step 2 CK
- USMLE Step 1
- +28 subjects
Fiona: San Diego USMLE course instructor
...your success and partner with you to achieve your personal goals. I'm your go-to for NBME help, shelf exams and Step 2. We'll go over your plan for your M3 or M4 year and adapt our strategy to your needs. Residents: In the blink of an eye the end of residency arrives. Are you prepared for boards? Find out in my introductory session. Recall, a problem well-stated is a problem half-solved. Let's get to work!...
Education & Certification
- Boston University - Bachelor of Science, Physiology
Subject Expertise
- USMLE
- NBME - National Board of Medical Examiners
- USMLE Step 2 CK
- Medicine
- +8 subjects
Omer: San Diego USMLE course instructor
...different types of learners: auditory, visual etc). Over time I have also mastered the skill of making concepts and facts more easily comprehensible and guiding students to making crucial connections between concepts. If you are looking for any kind of learning or support with biochemistry, microbiology or pharmacology to help you enhance your knowledge and to ace your college tests and exams, I am the tutor for you! I have a solid understanding of these...
Education & Certification
- The Lyceum School - Bachelor of Science, Premedicine
- Liaquat National Medical College - Doctor of Medicine, Premedicine
Subject Expertise
- USMLE
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Social Sciences
- Electrical Engineering
- +18 subjects
Jung: San Diego USMLE course instructor
...Brunswick in May 2015 where he double majored in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and Psychology and minored in Chemistry. He graduated from the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program with the distinction of Summa Cum Laude. After graduation, he worked at the Colgate-Palmolive Global Technology Center for their Research & Development Department to provide a better understanding of skin irritation pathways and ways to mitigate irritation. Outside of tutoring, he enjoys walking his dog,...
Education & Certification
- Rutgers University-New Brunswick - Bachelors, Molecular Biology & Biochemistry and Psychology
- New Jersey Medical School - Current Grad Student, Doctor of Medicine
Subject Expertise
- USMLE
- PRAXIS
- SAT Subject Test in Biology E/M
- MCAT Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
- +45 subjects
Andrew: San Diego USMLE course instructor
...education, at the same time was tricky, but I found that I was able to tailor my teaching to the entire audience, so as to ensure that everyone understood what was being discussed. This is both my teaching philosophy and tutoring style. No one teaching style works best for everyone, and I pride myself on ensuring that every tutoring session will be conducted in a manner which best helps each particular student grasp the topics...
Education & Certification
- University of South Florida-Main Campus - Bachelors, Biomedical Sciences
- New York Medical College - PHD, Doctor of Medicine
Subject Expertise
- USMLE
- NBME - National Board of Medical Examiners
- USMLE Step 2 CK
- USMLE Step 3
- +181 subjects
Gibran: San Diego USMLE course instructor
...USMLE Step exams. I qualified all my Steps and look forward to guiding others to do the same. Working for Kaplan for 2yrs I enjoyed all aspects of my work and had the opportunity to work with multiple students facing different issues. From teaching classes with multiple students to one-on-one tutoring and also academic advising/creating study plans I helped students in all aspects of their preparation. The satisfaction of helping someone achieve their goals and...
Education & Certification
- Acharya Shri Chander College of Medical Sciences and Hospital, India - Doctor of Medicine, Premedicine
Subject Expertise
- USMLE
- USMLE Step 3
- USMLE Step 2 CK
- USMLE Step 1
- +20 subjects
Abhishek: San Diego USMLE course instructor
...the medical boards exam (ABIM), USMLE, MCAT, NAPLEX, and NCLEX. I also assist with presentations and projects. I will work with you on fund of knowledge, clinical context, comprehension, test taking skills, and study tips and tricks. What you will see is that I have a unique approach which makes even the most challenging topics understandable and digestible. We will make even the seemingly most insurmountable challenge an opportunity for you to flex your muscles...
Education & Certification
- University of California-Davis - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
- Ross University School of Medicine - Doctor of Medicine, Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
Subject Expertise
- USMLE
- ABIM Exam - American Board of Internal Medicine
- NBME - National Board of Medical Examiners
- NCLEX
- +31 subjects
Aashish: San Diego USMLE course instructor
...extensive history of tutoring with students of all ages, ranging from elementary school students to graduate level students. When I was in middle and high school, I spent a couple of summers tutoring elementary school students in Mathematics and English. During my undergraduate years, I was a teaching assistant for Plant Biology course for nonscience students and Biological Sciences for Pre-med students. For the past 5 years, I have tutored for more than 110 hours...
Education & Certification
- University of Maryland-College Park - Bachelor of Science, Biological and Physical Sciences
- University of Toledo - Doctor of Medicine, Biomedical Sciences
Subject Expertise
- USMLE
- College Geography
- Pharmacology
- Physical Chemistry
- +135 subjects