Best USMLE Prep Courses (2026): The UFAPS Method
The USMLE Step 1 has been Pass/Fail since January 2022. But don’t let that fool you.
- Step 2 CK is still scored, and it is now the most important factor in your residency application. (As of July 1, 2025, the Step 2 CK passing standard rose from 214 to 218.)
- You cannot do well on Step 2 if you don’t build a foundation during Step 1.
The USMLE rolled out new test-delivery software in 2026 (Step 3 from March 10, Step 2 CK from May 7, Step 1 from May 14). The content, total number of questions, and overall exam-day length are unchanged, but the exams now use more, shorter blocks: Step 1 moves to fourteen 30-minute blocks of 20 questions (from seven 60-minute blocks), and Step 2 CK to sixteen 30-minute blocks. The new interface adds improved keyboard navigation and image-contrast controls.
Unlike the MCAT or LSAT, where you buy one “course” (like Kaplan or Blueprint), medical students use a “stack” of resources known as UFAPS.
UWorld + First Aid + Anki + Pathoma + Sketchy.
We have analyzed these tools to help you build the perfect study schedule.
Quick Comparison: The Essential Stack
| Provider | Best For | Rating | Price | Key Features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U UWorld | Must Have | 5 | $349+ |
| Details |
| P Pathoma | Best for Path | 5 | $85 |
| Details |
| S Sketchy | Best for Micro | 4.9 | $349.99+ |
| Details |
| A Amboss | Best Supplement | 4.8 | $20/mo |
| Details |
| K Kaplan | Best for IMGs | 4 | $1,999+ |
| Details |
1. UWorld
The Non-Negotiable
If you ask a resident what they used to study, 100% of them will say UWorld. It is not just a question bank; it is a learning platform.
- The Explanations: UWorld explains why the right answer is right and why the wrong answers are wrong.
- Beyond the QBank: UWorld now bundles “ReadyDecks” (built-in flashcards) and a “Medical Library” to compete with Amboss.
- The Strategy: You should aim to complete the entire QBank at least once (preferably twice) before your exam.
2. Pathoma
The Pathology Bible
Dr. Husain Sattar is a legend. His book and video series, Pathoma, simplifies pathology into logical principles.
- High Yield: He cuts out the fluff. If he says it, memorize it.
- The Duke Deck: Use the community-made “Duke Pathoma” Anki deck to lock in the concepts after watching each video.
- Chapters 1-3: These chapters on General Pathology are the foundation of the entire exam. Watch them first.
3. Sketchy Medical
The Visual Savior
Microbiology and Pharmacology are lists of random facts. Staphylococcus is gram-positive. Pseudomonas is gram-negative. It’s impossible to memorize by rote. Sketchy turns these facts into cartoons using the “Memory Palace” technique.
- You will remember the “Red Bathtub” (Gram Negative) in the “Hot Tub Scene” (Pseudomonas) forever.
- It sounds silly, but it is the most effective way to learn Micro and Pharm.
4. Amboss
The “Google” for Med Students
Amboss is a newer player that has become essential. It combines a QBank with a massive Knowledge Library.
- The Anki Add-On: This is the killer feature. It highlights terms in your Anki cards and shows you the Amboss definition and high-yield images.
- Difficulty: Amboss questions are often trickier than UWorld. Use them to challenge yourself.
5. Kaplan USMLE
The Traditional Course
Kaplan is the “old school” choice. It offers live lectures and a structured schedule.
- Who is it for? Primarily International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and students who need a “bootcamp” environment.
- Why? Kaplan offers visa support for their in-center courses, allowing IMGs to come to the US to study.
- For US Students: Most US students find Kaplan too dense and “low yield” compared to the UFAPS method.
Final Verdict: What Should You Buy?
You don’t choose one. You buy the stack.
- UWorld: For daily practice questions.
- Pathoma: For learning Pathology.
- Sketchy: For memorizing Micro and Pharm.
- First Aid: As your reference textbook (annotate it as you watch videos).
- Anki: To make sure you never forget what you learned.
Do not buy a $3,000 “prep course” unless you are an IMG who needs visa support. The “UFAPS” stack costs less than $1,000 total and is far more effective.