Information for International Medical Graduates

Special Information for International Medical Graduates


International Medical Graduates (IMG) looking to enter a postgraduate training program in the United States should first understand the immigration process. The American Medical Association Immigration Information for IMGs gives detailed information on visa requirements.

Before being able to apply to a residency, IMGs need to obtain an ECFMG certification. Through its program of certification, the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG®) assesses the readiness of international medical graduates to enter residency or fellowship programs in the United States that are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). To be certified by ECFMG, the following exams need to be passed by the applicant:

  • Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE
  • English Language Proficiency (TOEFL)
  • Clinical Skills Assessment (CSA)
For information on obtaining ECFMG certification, please refer to the AMA ECFMG Certification Information or directly from ECFMG at their website. This site includes complete details on the certification process and other relevant information.

Other Resources:
State Licensure Board Requirements for IMG
USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination)
National Resident Matching Program
Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education
U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS)
Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS)
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
Fellowship and Residency Electronic Interactive Database (FREIDA)

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