The financial commitment is substantial. Planning for it across the full timeline prevents mid-pathway financial crises that force delays.
Exam Fees
Step 1: $1,000+ (with international scheduling surcharges). Step 2 CK: $1,000+ (same surcharges). Step 3: $900+ (US-based testing centres only — if you are outside the US, you need to travel). OET: $500+. Total exam fees alone: approximately $3,500-4,500.
ECFMG Fees
Application fee, pathways verification, and certification fee: approximately $1,000-1,500 total across the process.
Study Materials
UWorld Step 2 CK: $400-600 (depending on subscription length). UWorld Step 3: $300-400. NBME self-assessments: $60 each (2-3 recommended across preparation). Anki: free. iatroX US Q-bank: $99/year — the most affordable adaptive supplement available, covering all US boards. Total study materials: $500-1,500 depending on your stack.
Hidden Costs
Travel to exam centres for international candidates: $500-3,000 per trip (flights, visa, accommodation). Rescheduling fees: $50-200 per change. Visa fees for exam travel if applicable. Living expenses during dedicated study periods (if you stop working to study full-time).
ERAS and Interview Costs
ERAS application fees: $11 for the first programme, $30 for each additional. At 150+ programme applications: $4,000+. Interview-related costs (even with virtual interviews): preparation materials, professional attire, technology setup. If in-person interviews return for some programmes: $5,000-15,000 in travel. NRMP match fee: $75-100.
Total Investment
Conservative estimate: $15,000-20,000 from start to match. Realistic for many IMGs including travel and living expenses: $20,000-30,000. Budget across 2-3 years. Front-load exam preparation costs. ERAS costs hit in a single September-October window.
The most cost-effective adaptive Q-bank for US boards: $99/year →