Interested? Here's a summary of the process.
Read this post 'Why I’m Moving to the USA for Medical Residency'.
The process is not simple, cheap, or easy but it's worth it.
Let’s jump right in.
ECFMG = Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates
This is the standard for evaluating the qualifications of physicians before they enter U.S. graduate medical education and it is required for IMGs to obtain an unrestricted license in the US. Register on their website, pay the fee, and ensure your medical school is approved. This will allow you to register to sit the USMLE Step 1 and 2CK exams (more on this below).
USMLE = United States Medical Licensing Exam
This is a pass/fail exam (previously scored) requirement for any IMG applying to the USA. It’s an 8-hour exam divided into seven 60-minute blocks with multiple-choice questions. Yes, it is 8 hours long, that’s not a typo.
The exam costs $1000, with an additional International Test Delivery Surcharge if taken outside the US or Canada. Details on testing centres and content can be found here.
You can find the USMLE Step 1 content specification here.
I’m studying for this exam and will release a guide on preparation for it soon.
This is a scored exam required for any IMG applying to the USA. It’s a 9-hour exam divided into eight 60-minute blocks with multiple-choice questions. Aim for a high score as it is crucial for a competitive residency application.
As this exam is the only scored exam in your application, it is recommended to aim for a high score to have a competitive edge. The speciality you apply for will determine how high of a score you need, but it’s safer to aim high regardless.
USCE = United States Clinical Experience
USCE includes clinical rotations, observerships, externships, or electives in the US. It provides clinical exposure, networking opportunities, and strengthens your residency application. Completing a USCE before graduation is advantageous and is the perfect time to secure a Letter Of Recommendation (LOR).
If your medical school offers a clinical elective this is the perfect opportunity to complete an USCE before you graduate.
While it is not essential to complete a USCE, it’s a no-brainer and improves your chances of matching.
In short, you ask someone who knows you well and can speak positively about your skills, strengths, and accomplishments from a clinical or academic experience.
Most of your letters should come from within the speciality you are applying to, who know you well.
While it is more important to have a LOR from someone who knows you well, it can sometimes help if the person writing the LOR is well-known within the speciality or sub-speciality as attendings know one another from across the country, so having a reference from a well-respected colleague will make you stand out.
Networking is important in the States, so your USCE and LOR can boost your application.
Research requirements vary by specialty. Competitive specialities may require several first-authored publications, while others need less. Start seeking research early in medical school if your speciality is competitive.
You must graduate from medical school before applying for residency. Make sure you pass your in-house exams as well as the USMLE Step exams but put more effort into the USMLE as they matter more in this application.
ERAS = Electronic Residency Application Service
NRMP = National Residency Matching Program
Here’s a timeline for the 2024/2025 match cycle:
If you’re reading this far, I take it you’re up for the challenge. If you have more questions and want a full guide to the process Liberty Medics is ideal for you. I’ve been using their platform for 4 years and it’s saved me countless hours of research.
Created by IMGs for IMGs, Liberty Medics offer a comprehensive platform with:
If you’re serious, sign up here, your future self will thank you.
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