failed step3 twice

You have to be very truthful about everything! Programs will know whether you chose automatic transmission or not and should the situation demand, you should tell them about your attempts. Having said that, you do not need to mention that yourself. As for the reasons, I cannot give you a reason since it depends on your circumstance. There is no good reason, family responsibilities etc are OK but be honest and tell them the real reason. Programs like honesty rather than some nice sounding explanation!

thanks for ur advice prab,
can you tell me what i should tell the programs about my first failure in step 3, i mean what will be a good reason. and should i mention about my second attempt because the programs dont know about my second attempt as i did not put automatic transmission.

Hi,
Sorry to hear about the step 3 troubles. It is a pretty tough exam. I know of people who finished residency who had difficulty passing the exam. But, as with any other exam, nothing is too difficult with preparation. What I found useful is combined study and practicing CCS cases together with some people. As for the programs, you will have to consider J1 as an alternative if you did not clear step 3 in time and tell the programs so or they may not rank you for the fear of you not clearing the step 3 or rank you lower! All the best!