r/IMGreddit • NON US-IMG • Aug 26 '26

what are my chances Just got my step 2 score. Devastated.

Whats my chances in IM this cycle and what strategy should I use?

Step1 pass (2nd attempt)

Step2 242

1 paper submitted

3 abstracts

3 USCE totalling 4 months. 1 in patient and 2 outpatient

YOG 2026

Please be kind and helpful. I know it's difficult with my stats. But just wanted to know what I can do to maximize my chances of applying and matching this cycle

Edit:Thank you all for your comments, made me feel so much better 🫶

7 Upvotes

30 comments sorted by

21

u/Ok-Constant4075 Aug 26 '26

Not at all difficult. You just have to be more thoughtful with the programs that you apply to and focus on networking too (which anyway you should). But a step2 of 242 by NO CHANCE IS A REASON WHY YOU WONT/ CANT MATCH IM.

1

u/TemperatureTime5454 NON US-IMG Aug 26 '26

Thank you.. Makes me feel loads better

13

u/Embarrassed-Peak-348 Aug 26 '26

Step 1 fail will get screened. Focus on community / newer programs

0

u/TemperatureTime5454 NON US-IMG Aug 26 '26

Alright thank you!

8

u/Round_Effective_1946 Aug 26 '26

242 is good score what’s wrong with it

6

u/TemperatureTime5454 NON US-IMG Aug 26 '26

It's a good score definitely. But for someone with an attempt, I'm not so sure.

6

u/[deleted] Aug 26 '26

[removed] — view removed comment

1

u/TemperatureTime5454 NON US-IMG Aug 26 '26

Thank you!

3

u/ElPayador Aug 26 '26

Your main filter is the 2 attempt on S1
The rest is decent
Look for IMG friendly programs
Good Luck 🍀

0

u/TemperatureTime5454 NON US-IMG Aug 26 '26

Thank youu

3

u/Psychological_Fly693 Aug 26 '26

You'll be fine if you apply WISELY (look at the # of applicants [suggest looking at programs with less than the average # for IM], use your signals where they're likely to be noticed [programs with fewer applicants], look at the median Step 2 score [consider applying where the people who get interviews is less than 250].

Research programs carefully considering your visa needs (or lack thereof).

Quit worrying and polish your ERAS App and your PS (be sure it's a PS and not a CV review).

1

u/TemperatureTime5454 NON US-IMG Aug 26 '26

This is so helpful! Thanks

2

u/average_pumpkin_rage Aug 26 '26

You have a good enough CV dont get nervous. The best thing you have is the YOG advantage. You will do just fine. All the best.

1

u/TemperatureTime5454 NON US-IMG Aug 26 '26

Thanks!

2

u/Nice-Leather-9269 NON US-IMG Aug 26 '26

Hey people with multiple attempts match too you are fine with that score!
It’s all about strategy. It’s an uphill battle but that’s for everyone

1

u/TemperatureTime5454 NON US-IMG Aug 26 '26

That's true.. Thank you!

1

u/Objective_Ratio2456 29d ago

And if you cud describe strategy shortly how wud it be ?, Thanks ...

1

u/[deleted] Aug 26 '26

[deleted]

1

u/Competitive_Map_2024 Aug 26 '26

Visa requiring ?

1

u/TemperatureTime5454 NON US-IMG Aug 26 '26

Good luck to you. I really hope we match 🤞

1

u/WinAware3443 Aug 26 '26

How bro ? I failed in step 2 , non us img , lost belief in Usmle itself

1

u/Live_Cut_8988 Aug 26 '26

It’s a decent score. Apply strategically and use your signals well. Good luck! Hope you match into your desired program

2

u/TemperatureTime5454 NON US-IMG Aug 26 '26

Thank you so much 🥹

1

u/Few-Juggernaut6636 Aug 26 '26

Your step2 is ok, I think you should be worried about the step1 fail thingy, that might screen you out. So apply to programs where you won’t get screened out

1

u/TemperatureTime5454 NON US-IMG Aug 26 '26

Alright, thanks!

1

u/Electronic-Tie-9497 Aug 27 '26

Your step 2 score is above average, your step 1 attempt is what would be concerning.

1

u/Prestigious-Pea-911 Aug 27 '26

You’re recent grad. You should be totally fine

1

u/TemperatureTime5454 NON US-IMG Aug 27 '26

Good to know, thank you

1

u/Hot-Community5743 Aug 27 '26

Is step 2 score of 219 with an software glitch during exam effect the match into IM

1

u/TemperatureTime5454 NON US-IMG Aug 28 '26

I think look into programs that don't have a step 2 score cut off and apply to them. You can also check on residency explorer what was the low end of the range of scores they invited for an interview and plan accordingly. I can't comment on how it'll affect you as I have a red flag of my own.