🧠 Match Q&A: Can I Match with a Low Step 2 CK Score?
✅ Quick Answer:
Yes — many IMGs have Matched with Step 2 CK scores in the low 210s, and even below 200.
A low score may limit the number of interviews you receive, but it does not prevent you from Matching — if you are prepared to perform exceptionally well in those interviews.
🧠 Expert Insight:
Step 2 CK plays a major role in getting interviews — but not in how you’re ranked once you’re in front of a program. If your score is 230 or below, your first priority should be to strengthen other parts of your application to compensate because compensating factors do matter.
If your Step 2 CK is low, the most direct way to balance that out is by passing Step 3 before your application is reviewed. That gives program directors added confidence in your clinical readiness.
Another powerful move is doing US clinical experience (USCE) at an accredited teaching hospital and securing a strong letter of recommendation from that rotation. This speaks volumes about how you’ll perform as a resident.
If you’re a U.S. citizen, green card holder, or have valid work authorization (like EAD or H-4), you can also explore getting a limited license to practice in select states — which further shows you’re already at a U.S. standard of care.
Research doesn’t directly compensate for a low Step 2 CK score and often isn’t weighted as heavily unless you’re applying to academic programs.
Finally, don’t underestimate the impact of a well-written personal statement. According to the NRMP Program Director Survey, it’s consistently ranked in the top five factors that determine who gets interviews.
🩺 Real World Case Example:
The majority of doctors that begin training with Mission Residency come to us with a lower Step scores. One of Dr. Brian’s students during the most recent Match cycle scored 210 on Step 2 CK and had a YOG of 2012.
She was told repeatedly she had “no chance.” We made sure that she secured strong USCE experience in the months leading up to the application AND made sure her personal statement stood out.
She practiced the communication & interview skills learned during her training, refined her answers and Matched into a categorical internal medicine program in March 2025. When her 4 interview opportunities came, she was ready.
The truth is: The CK was only PART of her application - what programs learned about her from her personal statement and interview performance was what helped separate her from her competition with STRONGER CK scores.
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🖊️ Written by Dr. Brian
Residency Interview and Match Expert
Last updated: June 23, 2025