USMLE Step 1 Fee in Pakistan 2026

Medical students and graduates in Pakistan preparing for USMLE Step 1 in 2026 must plan finances carefully, as the exam involves multiple mandatory charges beyond the basic registration amount. These costs apply specifically to international candidates and differ from those paid inside the United States or Canada.

Base USMLE Step 1 Exam Fee for Pakistan

Applicants from Pakistan fall under the international category. For 2026, the USMLE Step 1 base exam fee for international candidates remains USD 1,020. This amount covers exam registration and processing through the official USMLE pathway.

This fee applies equally to students enrolled in medical colleges and graduates who meet eligibility requirements.

International Test Delivery Surcharge

Since Pakistan lies outside the United States and Canada, all candidates must pay an international test delivery surcharge. This charge applies automatically during scheduling.

International surcharge (2026):

• Amount: USD 205
• Applies to: All test centers outside the US and Canada
• Paid together with the exam fee

Total USMLE Step 1 Fee in USD

The combined mandatory charges for Pakistani candidates are shown below:

This total does not include optional services or future administrative changes.

USMLE Step 1 Fee in Pakistan (PKR)

Exchange rates fluctuate, but candidates usually calculate costs using the current interbank or card-payment rate. Based on an average exchange range:

Banks may charge additional conversion or international transaction fees.

ECFMG Certification Fee (One-Time)

Before booking any USMLE exam, international candidates must complete ECFMG registration. This involves a one-time certification fee.

• Amount: USD 160
• Paid only once
• Required before Step 1, Step 2 CK, or Step 3

This fee remains separate from the Step 1 exam payment.

Optional and Situational Charges

Some candidates incur extra costs due to scheduling changes or administrative requests. These charges depend on individual circumstances.

Few optional fees:

• Eligibility period extension
• Exam date rescheduling
• Test center location change
• Score recheck or verification
• Official transcript request

These charges vary and apply only if requested.

Prometric Test Centers in Pakistan

USMLE Step 1 is conducted at authorized Prometric centers. In Pakistan, candidates usually select test centers located in major cities.

Major test locations:

• Islamabad
• Lahore
• Karachi

Seat availability depends on demand, so early booking helps avoid rescheduling costs.

Payment Methods Accepted

Candidates from Pakistan usually pay fees through international payment options.

Accepted methods:

• International credit cards (Visa or Mastercard)
• Debit cards with international usage enabled

Local bank transfers are not supported.

Financial Planning Tips for 2026 Candidates

Careful planning reduces unnecessary expenses. Candidates should:

• Book early to secure preferred dates
• Avoid eligibility extensions
• Confirm documents before payment
• Monitor exchange rates before paying
• Keep a buffer for bank charges

These steps help maintain cost control during registration.

Issues That Increase Costs

Many applicants unintentionally raise their total spending due to avoidable errors.

Frequent issues:

• Incorrect personal details during registration
• Late date changes
• Missing document verification deadlines
• Booking without checking test center availability

Accuracy at each stage prevents added charges.

Complete Fee Table

Practically, USMLE Step 1 requires a substantial financial commitment for Pakistani candidates in 2026. The exam fee, surcharge, and certification charges form the fixed portion of the cost, while scheduling decisions influence the final amount. Proper planning, early booking, and accurate documentation help keep expenses predictable and manageable.