I would like to thank my study partners that have been with me from the beginning that I met on here and GOLDUSMLE program for helping me so much. Excited to share that I have passed the USMLE Step 1 and my CBSE exam with higher performance in all categories. My medical school required me to pass CBSE in order to take USMLE STEP1 and the GOLDUSMLE program helped me pass my CBSE and allowed me to stay in class until my STEP1 to finish my STEP1 exam. It was the best choice I made and I am glad I was able to get both exams over with. This is a concise summary of my 4 month preparation journey for USMLE Step 1. I started my Step 1 preparation in NOV 2025. During this time, I primarily focused on using UWorld and GOLDUSMLE review as a learning tool while steadily building my foundation for the dedicated phase from boards and beyond and First aid. They broke down the concepts very well and helped me focus on my incorrects from the assessment. The GoldUSMLE assessment exam, memorization tables + charts was spot on and definitely made a big difference in my improvement in UW blocks and NBME efficiency. 
Resources Used:
•UWorld 1/2 AMBOSS
• GoldUSMLE 12 weeks review + ASSESSMENT includes CBSE + STEP1 prep
• First Aid
• Boards and Beyond
• Dirty Medicine
Practice tests scores:
• UWorld Average: 70%
• NBME Scores:
• NBME 26: 78%
• NBME 27: 70% ( First test I gave )
• NBME 28: 80%
• NBME 29: 82%
• NBME 30: 84%
• NBME 31: 85%
• UWSA Scores:
• UWSA 1: 252
• UWSA 2: 244
• Free 120 Scores:
• Free 120 (Old): 79%
• Free 120 (New): 85%
During my dedicated period, I emphasized my incorrect and studied them thoroughly. I focused intensively on: Completing my review of UWorld+ revising memorization GOLD tables and charts from GOLDUSMLE classes. Revisiting high-yield resources such as First Aid, and Sketchy Micro.On test day, I stayed calm and confident, taking breaks after every 2 blocks and ensuring I managed my time efficiently. I did not have a time problem during the test day.Use GOLDUSMLE and UWorld as a learning tool, not an assessment tool in the pre-dedicated period. Focus on understanding concepts rather than worrying about scores early on.Practice test scores might initially be lower than expected, but consistent work and learning from your mistakes will help improve them over time.
edited by on 4/6/2026