Explain the Process | FindAResidency

Introduction

Becoming a physician in the United States is a long and challenging process, especially for international medical graduates (IMGs). IMGs must go through several steps to obtain a medical license and complete residency training in the US. In this blog, we will discuss the US residency process for IMGs, including the procedures they have to go through and the fees they should consider.

Step 1: Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) Certification The first step for IMGs is to obtain ECFMG certification. This certification confirms that their medical education and credentials are equivalent to those of US medical graduates. To obtain ECFMG certification, IMGs must pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1, Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK), and Step 2 Clinical Skills (CS) exams. Additionally, they must have their medical education credentials verified by the ECFMG.

IMGs can apply for ECFMG certification online through the ECFMG website. The application fee for 2023 is $135.

Step 2: Residency Application and Match Process After obtaining ECFMG certification, IMGs can start applying for residency programs through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) system. ERAS is a centralized online application service allowing IMGs to apply to multiple residency programs simultaneously.

The residency match process is conducted through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), or "The Match." The Match is a system that uses a computer algorithm to match applicants to residency programs based on their preferences and the programs' preferences. The Match process is conducted in three rounds, and IMGs may participate in any or all rounds.

IMGs should also consider applying to programs that participate in the Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP), which is a process that helps unmatched applicants find residency positions. The SOAP process takes place after the regular Match process is completed.

Step 3: Visa Requirements IMGs must have the appropriate visa status to be eligible for US medical licensure and residency training. The most common visa types for IMGs are the J-1 visa and the H-1B visa.

The J-1 visa requires IMGs to return to their home country for two years after completing their residency training in the US. The H-1B visa does not have a home country requirement, but it is subject to an annual cap and requires sponsorship from the residency program.

IMGs should consult with an immigration attorney to determine the best visa option.

Step 4: USMLE Step 3 and State Licensure After completing residency training, IMGs must pass the USMLE Step 3 exam to be eligible for medical licensure in the US. The exam assesses the physician's ability to apply medical knowledge and understanding of biomedical and clinical science to the care of patients.

Each state has its requirements for medical licensure, and IMGs must meet the state's requirements where they plan to practice. IMGs should consult the website of the state medical board for specific requirements.

Fees to Consider IMGs should be prepared to pay several fees throughout the residency process, including:

ECFMG Certification application fee: $135
USMLE Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 2 CS exam fees: $940, $940, and $1,600, respectively
ERAS application fees: $110 for the first program applied to, $26 for each additional program
NRMP match registration fee: $85
J-1 visa application fee: $246
H-1B visa application fee: $1,410

Conclusion

In conclusion, the US residency process for international medical graduates (IMGs) is a long and complex journey that involves several steps and fees. IMGs must obtain ECFMG certification, apply for residency programs through ERAS, participate in the NRMP Match process, obtain the appropriate visa status, complete residency training, pass the USMLE Step 3 exam, and obtain medical licensure from the state where they plan to practice. IMGs should also consider the fees associated with each step of the process. While the process can be challenging, with careful planning and preparation, IMGs can successfully complete the process and become licensed physicians in the United States.