If COMLEX and USMLE scores cannot be converted, how should ACGME programs use COMLEX scores to evaluate osteopathic applicants?
Licensing examinations, such as the COMLEX-USA, were not specifically designed to serve as a screening tool for residency programs. However, many program directors have elected to use the scores as a selection criterion for residents. One may consider the use of COMLEX-USA scores to determine the relative performance of the candidate to his or her peers. Using the 3 digit or 2 digit standard score, and the estimated percentile rank, either estimated or actual, should provide some useful information about the potential of a candidate applying for GME training. This information can also be compared with letters of reference, and letters from the candidates dean and clinical supervisors to form a general sense of the capabilities of the applicant.
Related Questions
- Many ACGME residency programs accept both DO and MD applicants. Can COMLEX scores be converted into USMLE scores so that those programs can have a common criterion in judging all applicants?
- If COMLEX and USMLE scores cannot be converted, how should ACGME programs use COMLEX scores to evaluate osteopathic applicants?
- Can residency programs estimate the percentiles from COMLEX 3-digit scores by themselves?
