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 give 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:
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. The AMA Resources for International Medical Graduates page contain comprehensive and up to date resources and information. Other Resources: 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) Fellowship and Residency Electronic Interactive Database (FREIDA)