PHILADELPHIA, PA — NBME is now accepting applications for the next cycle of its fee assistance program, part of a $1 million annual commitment to support medical students facing financial hardship. Applications are open through August 24, 2025.
Launched in 2024, the program aims to ease the financial burden of registering for the USMLE® Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge exams. Each year, over 1,300 students receive awards. Notably, 41% of last year’s recipients were the first in their families to attend college, underscoring the program’s role in expanding access to medical careers.
“We believe that all students who want to be doctors should have the chance to follow that dream, regardless of financial circumstances,” said Peter Katsufrakis, President and CEO at NBME. “While the USMLE exams are mere steps in a future physician’s educational journey, our hope is that these financial contributions help to ease the journey for intelligent students pursuing their passion.”
NBME partners with National Medical Fellowships (NMF) to administer the program. Three application cycles are scheduled throughout 2025, offering multiple opportunities for students to apply for support.
“We are thrilled to once again work with NBME to provide the financial support necessary for brilliant medical students to continue their educational and career journeys,” said Michellene Davis, Esq., President and CEO of NMF. “By investing in health professionals deeply committed to community-based health, NMF works to ensure everyone has access to the highest quality care.”
Medical students can learn about the fee assistance program on NBME’s website.
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