Hundreds University of Maryland, Georgetown University, Johns Hopkins University and George Washington University medical students petitioned to eliminate a standardized licensing test they claim is "redundant and a financial burden," according to the Santa Fe New Mexican.
The Step 2 Clinical Skills exam measures bedside manner and real-world problem solving as students interact with people acting as patients.
Students must pay $1,275 to register for the exam.
Students must also pay for travel and lodging, given that the exam is only available in five cities nationwide. The exam is also usually administered during the fourth year, right around the time students are interviewing for residency programs.
Students suggest medical schools offer a similar exam that is free of charge
The campaign has gained the support of nearly 16,500 students, residents and physicians from more than 130 medical schools since March, according to the report.
Licensing board officials said that the exam serves as a quality control measure and that students must undergo independent standardized testing in order to provide patients with the best possible care. It remains unclear whether the exam improves patient outcomes, however.