It is an exam that tests the general clinical theoretical knowledge of a medical school graduate. In the United States, the CCSE is used as preparation for the medical licensing exam (preparation for the USMLE Step 2 Clinical Science exam).
The exam is prepared by the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME). The exam can be administered at centers approved by the NBME. In Slovenia, the exam is administered at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Maribor and the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Ljubljana.
The exam comprises 168 multiple-choice questions in clinical medicine, which follow the “single best answer” principle (one correct answer).
The exam covers topics from the clinical disciplines and is conducted with MCQs (multiple choice questions) in English. All questions are multiple choice and have one correct answer (single best answer).
Candidates who wish to take the exam are advised to practice solving the cases found in the USMLE Step 2 QBooks. The books are available in the MF UM Library.
Candidates also have access to paid electronic question banks for practice and exam preparation.
We recommend that students use materials for the USMLE Step 2 Clinical Science exam to prepare for the CCSE exam.
All information and instructions on registering for the exam are available at the email address monika.sobocan3@um.si. The mailbox is checked regularly; you will receive a reply within 5 working days of sending your email at the latest.
By decision of the MF UM Senate, the exam in the 2018-19 and 2019-2020 academic years is free of charge for students (6th year and students in the additional year before graduation) and graduates of MF UM who pass the exam. Participants who do not pass the exam cover the cost of the exam.
The Faculty of Medicine of the University of Maribor has aligned its pass criterion for the exam with the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Ljubljana. The National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME), which prepares the exam, reports the score achieved within 48–72 hours after the exam. The pass criterion is set in relation to the group of test takers.
A participant who achieves a score above the set pass mark has passed the exam.
A passed CCSE exam is taken into account when applying for specialty training. As part of the optional supporting documents, a candidate for specialty training who has passed the CCSE exam can obtain additional points.
The exam also serves as preparation for the US licensing exam USMLE.
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“I completed part of my studies on an Erasmus exchange in Split, followed by an Erasmus traineeship in Vienna. Both experiences gave me the chance to explore the cities in depth, meet new people and form friendships that will last a lifetime. On the clinical wards, I saw procedures that are performed less often at home, and a longer placement in ophthalmology confirmed my wish to specialize in the field.
I also tried my hand at research, which further broadened my professional perspective. The exchanges helped me grow both personally and professionally: I became more independent and open-minded, improved my foreign language skills and felt even more confident about my career path.
It is an experience every medical student should have.”
“My exchange at the medical university in Innsbruck was truly unforgettable. Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol, is a beautiful, vibrant student city surrounded by mountains. At the start, we were welcomed with a reception where I quickly got to know the other Erasmus students. I completed my 4th year there, attended the useful Sono4u ultrasound course and took additional placements in gynecology, plastic surgery and ENT, gaining valuable practical experience. The professors were friendly and approachable, and the faculty also offered a year-long German course; I recommend having at least B1-level German before going on exchange. The city itself is perfect for skiing, cycling, running and climbing, and is also known for having one of Europe's largest climbing walls. I will certainly be happy to return to Innsbruck, as it has become my second home.
The Erasmus Student Network organized trips to Salzburg, Vienna, Verona and Neuschwanstein, as well as numerous sporting events.”
“When I went on Erasmus in my 5th year, I had no idea how much six months in Graz would change me. I wanted to see how medicine is practiced elsewhere, improve my German and step outside my routine, but I gained so much more: new friends, a wealth of knowledge and unforgettable moments.
The first few days were more difficult: I felt like a first-year student in a white coat. The hospital was huge, everyone spoke quickly, and I struggled to catch every word. But the students and supervisors were incredibly friendly, so I soon joined ward rounds and procedures and learned a great deal in practice. Medical German seemed daunting at first, but practice was the best teacher, and after a few weeks I was communicating confidently.
The best part was meeting students from all over the world. We cooked, studied and explored Graz together. The exchange taught me things I would never have experienced at home. I became more independent, confident and open-minded.
If you are thinking about Erasmus, go for it. It will not always be easy, but it will always be worth it. ”
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