USMLE Test Centers Outside the US: Where and How to Book

For Step 1 and Step 2 CK you can usually take the exam at a Prometric test center outside the United States, but Step 3 is given only in the U.S. and its territories. The practical questions are which center is near you, whether it has seats in your eligibility window, and whether any extra charge applies. This page explains how to check, without listing specific locations, because center lists and availability change.

What the official sources say #

• Which Steps, where. The USMLE Bulletin says Step 1, Step 2 CK and Step 3 are administered at Prometric centers, and that Step 3 is administered only in the U.S. and its territories. The Common Questions page says Step 1 and Step 2 CK are offered at Prometric centers worldwide.
• How to find a center. Use the Prometric website to find the center nearest you and to schedule. The USMLE site says available test centers and appointment dates are listed there.
• When you can book. You can schedule only after your scheduling permit is issued. Scheduling may not be available more than six months in advance.
• Availability is not guaranteed. Test dates are first-come, first-served and the USMLE program cannot guarantee the availability of test centers. Appointments at some centers fill up quickly.
• Registration. Since January 2026 IMGs apply for the Steps through FSMB. Follow the current USMLE announcement.

A step-by-step way to find your center #

1. Confirm your eligibility period and permit. You cannot book without them. See scheduling with Prometric.
2. Check the testing region you selected when you applied. The region determines where you are allowed to test and whether a surcharge applies. If the region on your permit is wrong, contact the registering organization before you book.
3. Search the Prometric site for USMLE centers in your area using your permit information. Look at several centers, not one.
4. Compare dates, not just locations. A convenient center with no seats in your window is useless. Check at least two or three centers and several weeks of dates.
5. Book early in your eligibility period. The Bulletin recommends scheduling early to leave room to reschedule.
6. Check the closures page. USMLE recommends confirming that your center is open on the Prometric closures page before you reschedule or travel on exam day.

What to verify before you commit #

If there is no center near you #

Many IMGs travel to another city or country to test. If you do:

• Check the testing region and the center's availability before you pay for travel.
• Book the exam first, then travel and accommodation, but only if refund and rescheduling terms are acceptable. Fees for the exam are non-refundable and non-transferable, and a fee applies to changes within 45 calendar days of your appointment.
• Arrive the day before. The Bulletin says to arrive at least 30 minutes before your appointment and that arriving more than 30 minutes late means you will not be admitted.
• Check entry requirements for the country you will visit. Visa processing for the exam country can take longer than the exam registration.

Step 3 is different #

Because Step 3 is given only in the U.S. and its territories, IMGs outside the country must travel and usually need an appropriate visa. If a visa is required, apply early and plan around visa processing times. See Step 3 and Step 3 and H-1B timing.

What we cannot tell you #

We do not list specific cities or centers, because they are not stated on the official USMLE pages we reviewed and unofficial lists go out of date. We also do not state surcharge amounts. Use the official sources above.

What to do next #

Once you have a permit, open Prometric, compare several centers, and book within your eligibility window. Then read the exam day checklist.