STEP Exam Registration: Step-by-Step Instructions to Apply Successfully

STEP is a popular acronym for Sixth Term Examination Paper. It is generally considered to be a challenging Mathematics examination followed in most universities in the UK, such as the University of Warwick and the University of Cambridge. The examination is a standard prerequisite in the admissions process of these universities for math-related study programs.  

The STEP exam is primarily designed for students who intend to apply to international universities offering programs in the field of math, engineering, and computer science. Many top UK universities generally require this exam to be taken by aspiring candidates. Examples include the University of Cambridge in the UK. 

Here’s who needs to take the STEP exam specifically:

• Applicants to the University of Warwick, the University of Cambridge, and Imperial College London

• Students applying to undergraduate programs in Math

• Candidates interested in engineering and computer science degree programs

It is crucial to make note of the key dates for STEP Exam registration in India to avoid missing any deadlines. Some of the important dates related to the STEP exam in India are given below:

• Opening date for registration: March 3, 2026 

• Registration closing date: May 4, 2026 

• Deadline to request modified papers: April 21, 2026. 

• Deadline to request access arrangement: May 4, 2026  

_{Related Source: https://www.britishcouncil.in/step-sixth-term-examination-paper}

Some of the key documents required as part of the STEP Exam registration are a valid passport, academic transcripts, and the registration fee. Before initiating the registration process, it is essential to know the exact documents to be submitted as part of the application process, and to submit the necessary documents on time. 

Here is the complete list of documents to be submitted for STEP exam registration:

• A valid passport

• Details of medical school, including proof of enrollment in medical school, academic transcripts, and date of graduation (if applicable)

• Form 186 or Certificate of Identification

• ECFMG Certification

• Medical School Verification

To initiate STEP exam registration, contact a STEP exam centre near you, such as the British Council India. Online registration is not possible for STEP registration. The exact step-by-step registration process for the STEP exam is listed below for your reference:

Step 1: Choose an Authorized Test Centre 

Make sure that the centre is authorised to conduct the STEP exam. The British Council or your school may be authorised centres. 

Step 2: Complete the Application Form  

Enter the required details in the STEP registration form, providing all the necessary information, including UCAS ID (if available).

Step 3: Pay the STEP Exam Fees 

Once you have submitted the registration form, pay the examination fee via NEFT for British Council India using the bank details provided in the form. 

Submit all Documents Required 

Along with the registration form, you would need to submit some other documents as well via email. Documents include proof of payment (screenshot of NEFT), completed registration form, and any other documents, as specified at the test centre.

Step 4: Get Confirmation from the Test Centre 

Once you have submitted all the above, the test centre will review all the documents carefully and process your application. Upon acceptance, you will receive a confirmation of registration, including details of the exam venue, ideally 10 days before the date of the exam.

One of the common mistakes students make in the registration process of the STEP exam is ignoring submission deadlines. Also, not verifying your eligibility to take the exam or filling out inaccurate or incomplete information may result in unnecessary delays and stress.

Listed below are some other common mistakes students tend to make in the STEP Exam registration process:

• Not checking the eligibility criteria: Registering for the STEP exam without checking in advance whether you are eligible to take one is a grievous error. It may result in rejection of the application and wastage of registration fees as well. 

How to avoid: Carefully review the eligibility requirements for the exam on the official website of the STEP Exam and check if you meet those criteria before applying.

• Choosing the wrong centre or date: This is yet another common mistake by students. They may choose a centre that is too far away from their place or mistakenly select a date that collides with other personal or professional engagements. 

How to avoid: Carefully review the centre and date options provided and choose one that is the most convenient.

• Skipping deadlines: This is yet another common mistake. Failing to submit the application form or registering before the deadline provided may result in a late fee or failure to register for that specific exam cycle.

How to avoid: Make note of the registration deadlines carefully on your calendar to avoid forgetting or missing them. Set reminders in advance.

Before you submit the registration form for the STEP exam, make sure to review the application carefully to identify any possible mistakes. Also, ensure that all your documents are in order. To make things easier for you, a final checklist is provided below to refer to before submitting your STEP registration form:

• Verify all personal details entered.

• Gather all the required documents and put them in order (Photo ID proof, academic transcripts).

• Check the accepted method of payment for registration fees.

• Calculate the STEP exam cost.

• Attend the orientation session for the STEP program (if required). 

1. Can I edit my STEP exam registration after submission?

No, it is generally not permitted to edit the STEP registration form once submitted. It is thus essential to review the application carefully before final submission.

2. Where can I check my STEP exam registration status online?

Log in to the specific portal that you used for registration. For instance, if you registered via ECFMG, you can check the status of your application on ECFMG’s Online Applicant Status and Information System (OASIS). For registrations made via FSMB, you can check the website of FSMB, Step 3.

3. How many STEP exams can I register for in one session?

You can only register for one of the USMLE STEP exams at one time.

4. Can I register for STEP without a school recommendation?

Yes, you can. Generally, a school recommendation is not needed for registering for the USMLE STEP exams.

5. Can I apply for STEP if I’m not from a Math background?

Yes, it is possible to apply for the STEP exam if you don’t have a core Math background. While a strong foundation in Math may be helpful, it is not mandatory to register for the STEP exam.

6. What should I do if I don’t receive the STEP registration mail?

Try to check your junk or spam email folder to ensure that the mail was not misdirected. If you still haven’t received registration mail, check again that you used the correct email address at the time of registration. If nothing works, it’s best to get in touch with the relevant Regional Office via phone or email, or the TCS helpline.