INVISTA NO SEU SUCESSO:
Audition Rotation: A clinical rotation at a hospital with a residency program, allowing the participant to demonstrate their skills and work ethic to potentially secure a residency position. It serves as an "audition" for the program and is often sought by IMGs to increase their visibility to program directors.
Clerkship: A hands-on clinical rotation typically undertaken by medical students, involving direct patient care under supervision (e.g., taking histories, performing exams). For IMGs, it is highly valued for residency applications due to the practical skills gained and is often pursued through U.S. medical schools or affiliated hospitals before graduation.
Community Hospital: A hospital not affiliated with a university or medical school. It offers USCE opportunities that may be less competitive than university-affiliated settings, providing valuable experience in a practical healthcare environment.
Elective: A hands-on clinical rotation chosen by a medical student, often synonymous with "clerkship" for IMGs. It provides practical experience in the U.S. healthcare system and is typically pursued before graduation to enhance residency applications.
Externship: A hands-on clinical experience similar to a clerkship but usually undertaken by medical graduates rather than students. It allows graduates to gain U.S. clinical experience post-graduation, often through third-party agencies or private arrangements.
Hands-on Experience: Clinical experiences where the participant actively engages in patient care (e.g., physical exams, procedures), as opposed to merely observing. This is highly valued by residency programs compared to observational roles.
Inpatient: Clinical experiences in a hospital setting with admitted patients, offering exposure to acute care and hospital workflows. It is often considered more comprehensive than outpatient experiences for residency preparation.
LOR (Letter of Recommendation): A letter from a physician or faculty member attesting to an applicant’s clinical skills, professionalism, and suitability for residency. USCE is a key avenue for IMGs to obtain LORs from U.S. physicians, which are critical for residency applications.
Observership: A clinical experience where the participant shadows a physician without direct patient interaction. It is less valued than hands-on experiences but useful for networking, gaining U.S. healthcare exposure, and securing LORs, especially for graduates or those unable to access clerkships.
Outpatient: Clinical experiences in a clinic or office setting where patients are not admitted, focusing on preventive care, follow-ups, and non-emergency treatments. It provides a different perspective from inpatient settings and is common in private clinic USCE.
Private Clinic: A medical practice run by individual physicians or small groups, typically offering outpatient care. USCE here may be easier to arrange but is often less prestigious than hospital-based experiences unless it yields a strong, personalized LOR.
Rotation: A general term for any period of clinical training in the U.S., encompassing clerkships, electives, observerships, or externships. It is a broad category of USCE that IMGs pursue to build their residency applications.
Sub-I (Sub-Internship): An advanced clinical rotation where a student takes on responsibilities similar to those of an intern (first-year resident), often in a specialty of interest. It is more intensive than a standard clerkship and highly regarded in residency applications.
University-Affiliated Hospital: A hospital linked to a medical school, offering prestigious and competitive USCE opportunities. These settings often provide robust teaching environments and strong LORs, appealing to residency programs.
USCE (United States Clinical Experience): Any clinical experience undertaken in the United States, essential for IMGs to demonstrate familiarity with the U.S. healthcare system, network with physicians, and obtain U.S.-based LORs for residency applications.
VSLO (Visiting Student Learning Opportunities): A platform managed by the AAMC that allows medical students to apply for electives (clerkships) at U.S. medical schools. It is a standardized way for IMGs to secure hands-on USCE, typically requiring Step 1 completion.
Electives, often referred to as United States Clinical Experience (USCE), are a cornerstone of the journey for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) aiming to secure residency positions in the United States. These clinical experiences provide critical exposure to the U.S. healthcare system, opportunities to network with attending physicians, and the chance to earn impactful Letters of Recommendation (LORs). This extensive guide categorizes electives across multiple dimensions—types, locations, specialties, durations, visa requirements, costs, and application processes—offering detailed insights to help IMGs make informed decisions tailored to their career aspirations and circumstances. Whether you’re a current medical student or a recent graduate, this resource aims to equip you with the knowledge to navigate the complex landscape of electives effectively.
Introduction to Electives for IMGs
Types of Electives
Hands-on (Clerkships)
Observational (Observerships)
Location of Electives
University-Affiliated Hospitals
Community Hospitals
Private Clinics
Specialty-Specific Electives
Internal Medicine (IM)
Pediatrics
Surgery
Psychiatry
Neurology
Emergency Medicine (EM)
Radiology
Anesthesiology
Duration of Electives
Short-Term (2-4 Weeks)
Long-Term (4-12 Weeks)
Visa Requirements for Electives
Programs Sponsoring Visas
Programs Not Requiring Visas
Cost Considerations
Paid Electives
Free Electives
Application Processes
University Programs (e.g., VSLO)
Third-Party Agencies
Direct Application to Hospitals or Clinics
Maximizing the Elective Experience
Networking and Building Connections
Securing Strong LORs
Cultural Adaptation and Professionalism
Additional Considerations
Timing and Planning
Documentation and ERAS Preparation
Specialty-Specific Strategies
Conclusion
For IMGs, electives are more than just clinical rotations—they are a strategic stepping stone to residency in the U.S. They serve multiple purposes:
Exposure to the U.S. Healthcare System: Electives allow IMGs to familiarize themselves with patient care practices, electronic medical records (EMR), and interdisciplinary teamwork unique to the U.S.
Networking Opportunities: Relationships built with U.S. physicians and program directors can lead to mentorship, advocacy, and valuable connections during the residency application process.
Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Strong, personalized LORs from U.S. physicians are highly prized by residency programs, offering evidence of an IMG’s clinical competence and adaptability.
Demonstrating Commitment: Completing electives showcases an IMG’s dedication to practicing medicine in the U.S., a critical factor in the competitive residency match.
Given the challenges IMGs face—such as visa restrictions, financial constraints, and varying levels of prior clinical experience—selecting the right elective is paramount. This guide categorizes electives to provide clarity and actionable advice, ensuring IMGs can align their choices with their goals, whether they aim for a competitive specialty or a more accessible residency pathway.
Electives vary based on the level of clinical involvement, primarily falling into two categories: hands-on and observational.
Description: Clerkships involve direct patient interaction under supervision. Participants take histories, perform physical exams, assist in procedures, and contribute to patient care plans. These are typically part of a medical school curriculum but can be pursued as electives by visiting students from international schools.
Eligibility: Primarily available to current medical students who have not yet graduated. Programs often require proof of enrollment, such as a dean’s letter, and completion of core clerkships in the home country. Post-graduation, IMGs may be ineligible unless arranged as externships through specific agencies.
Value: Clerkships are the gold standard for USCE, highly valued by residency programs for demonstrating practical skills and clinical judgment. For instance, a hands-on pediatric clerkship in a U.S. outpatient clinic with mild inpatient exposure has been cited as a significant boost to residency applications.
Examples:
Internal Medicine clerkship at Florida International University (FIU).
Cardiology clerkship at the University of Pittsburgh.
Rotations at Jackson Park Hospital in Chicago (though experiences vary).
Considerations:
Graduation Status: Applying post-graduation can lead to rejection unless explicitly offered as an externship. Some IMGs delay graduation (e.g., by extending internships) to remain eligible.
Visa Implications: B1/B2 visas may permit clerkships if part of a U.S. medical school’s program for foreign students, per FAM 402.2-5(E)(3). However, visa officers may scrutinize student status.
Documentation: Programs often require USMLE Step 1 scores, transcripts, and a letter of good standing.
Description: Observerships involve shadowing physicians without direct patient contact. Participants observe rounds, procedures, and clinical discussions, gaining insight into U.S. medical practices without hands-on responsibilities.
Eligibility: Open to both medical students and graduates, making them more accessible post-graduation. No student status is required, broadening their appeal.
Value: While less preferred than clerkships, observerships remain valuable for networking and securing LORs. Successful residency matches with only observerships have been reported, particularly when IMGs actively engage to earn strong, personalized LORs.
Examples:
Family medicine observership in a local outpatient clinic.
Neurology observership at Mount Sinai, New York.
Neonatology observership in a big-city hospital.
Considerations:
Limited Hands-on Experience: Observerships may not fully demonstrate clinical skills, potentially weakening applications for hands-on specialties like surgery or emergency medicine.
Accessibility: Easier to arrange due to fewer prerequisites, often secured through personal contacts or institutional volunteer portals.
Perception: Some view observerships as less competitive, but a compelling LOR can offset this.
The setting of an elective influences its prestige, learning opportunities, and application impact.
Description: Academic medical centers tied to universities, often hosting residency programs and cutting-edge research.
Value: Prestigious and highly regarded due to their association with training programs and potential for impactful LORs from well-known faculty. Matching at a major academic institution is a significant achievement for IMGs.
Examples:
Clerkships at Mayo Clinic or Emory University.
Observerships at Mount Sinai, New York.
Cardiology clerkship at the University of Pittsburgh.
Considerations:
Competitiveness: Application processes are rigorous, often requiring USMLE Step 1 scores, transcripts, and enrollment verification via platforms like VSLO (Visiting Student Learning Opportunities).
Resources: Offer robust learning environments with exposure to diverse cases and advanced technology.
Networking: Proximity to residency program directors and faculty enhances match prospects.
Description: Non-academic hospitals serving local populations, some with residency programs, others without.
Value: Provide practical experience and are less competitive to secure than university programs. They offer a glimpse into community-based care, which is valuable for specialties like internal medicine or family medicine.
Examples:
Rotations at Jackson Park Hospital in Chicago (mixed reviews on quality).
Observership at Orlando Health.
Considerations:
Variability: Quality depends on the institution. Some, like Jackson Park, are criticized for location or limited services, yet still provide USCE.
LOR Strength: Letters from community hospitals may carry less weight unless highly personalized and from a respected physician.
Accessibility: More open to IMGs, especially through agencies or direct applications.
Description: Outpatient settings operated by individual physicians or small groups, often less structured than hospital-based programs.
Value: Easier to arrange through personal networks and cost-effective, though they may lack the prestige of hospital settings. The strength of the LOR often outweighs the setting if it’s detailed and positive.
Examples:
Family medicine observership in a local clinic.
Internal medicine observership with a private practitioner.
Considerations:
Limited Scope: Primarily outpatient, offering minimal inpatient exposure, which may not align with residency expectations for certain specialties.
Networking: Reliant on the physician’s willingness to advocate; success hinges on building a strong rapport.
Flexibility: Ideal for initial USCE or when other options are unavailable.
Electives can align with an IMG’s target residency specialty, enhancing relevance and competitiveness.
Description: A broad, foundational specialty with many residency positions, making it IMG-friendly.
Popularity: Frequently chosen due to availability and demand in the U.S.
Examples:
Clerkship at FIU (though criticized for limited hands-on experience).
Observership in a primary care IM clinic.
Considerations:
Offers transferable skills for other specialties.
Matching into major IM programs is feasible with strong USCE and scores (e.g., 270+ on Step 2).
Description: Focuses on child healthcare, another accessible field for IMGs.
Popularity: Successful matches with targeted USCE are common.
Examples:
Hands-on clerkship in a big-city outpatient clinic with inpatient exposure.
Neonatology observership in a hospital.
Considerations:
Competitive but achievable with relevant experience and LORs from pediatricians.
Description: Includes subspecialties like general, plastic, and cardiovascular surgery, requiring strong hands-on skills.
Popularity: Attractive but challenging due to workload and competitiveness.
Examples:
Observership in cardiovascular surgery.
Surgical externship via an agency (e.g., Chicago-based experience with limited cases).
Considerations:
Hands-on clerkships are critical; observerships alone may not suffice.
Physical demands (e.g., standing for long periods) may deter some IMGs.
Description: A growing field with increasing residency spots, suitable for IMGs.
Popularity: Flexible USCE options make it appealing.
Examples:
Observership arranged through third-party agencies like AMO.
Considerations:
Specialty-specific LORs significantly boost applications.
Less hands-on intensive, making observerships viable.
Description: Focuses on neurological disorders, appealing to research-oriented IMGs.
Popularity: Enhanced by neuroscience research experience.
Examples:
Observership at Mount Sinai.
Planned IM/neurology observership.
Considerations:
Research (e.g., fMRI studies) complements clinical experience.
Competitive but accessible with strong credentials.
Description: Fast-paced specialty requiring rapid decision-making.
Popularity: Moderately competitive with IMG-friendly programs.
Examples: Hands-on USCE recommended (specific examples scarce).
Considerations:
Requires robust clinical skills; clerkships are preferred.
Adaptability is key for success.
Description: Analytical field with reduced patient interaction.
Popularity: Less competitive currently; benefits from research or tech backgrounds.
Examples:
Planned observerships or clerkships.
Considerations:
Research publications and U.S. connections enhance competitiveness.
Observerships can suffice if paired with a strong CV.
Description: Focuses on perioperative care, appealing to some IMGs.
Popularity: Mentorship opportunities exist, though less commonly pursued.
Examples: Mentorship-driven observerships (specific examples limited).
Considerations:
Requires knowledge of physiology and pharmacology.
Hands-on experience strengthens applications.
The length of an elective affects its depth and utility for residency applications.
Description: Brief rotations lasting 2 weeks to a month.
Value: Ideal for sampling specialties, gaining initial exposure, or networking.
Examples:
2-week neonatology observership.
1-month IM observership in a private clinic.
Considerations:
Limited time may restrict LOR quality unless the IMG excels and engages fully.
Useful for building a broad USCE portfolio.
Description: Extended rotations, typically 4-8 weeks or more.
Value: Preferred for deeper immersion, skill development, and stronger LORs.
Examples:
12.4-week IM clerkship in Miami.
2-month surgical observership.
Considerations:
More resource-intensive (time, cost, visa logistics).
Aligns with residency expectations; New York’s 12-week rule may apply for IMGs seeking licensure there.
Visa status shapes elective options and logistics.
Description: Institutions or agencies offering visa support, such as J1, H1B, or B1/B2 sponsorship.
Value: Essential for IMGs requiring legal entry to the U.S.
Examples:
Jackson Park Hospital (potential visa support).
University programs via VSLO (may sponsor J1 for clerkships).
Considerations:
Limited availability; visa challenges are common for USCE.
Requires additional paperwork (e.g., DS-2019 for J1) and early planning.
Description: Suitable for U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or those with existing visas (e.g., EAD from green card applications).
Value: Simplifies logistics for eligible IMGs.
Examples:
Rotations for US IMGs or those with B1/B2 already secured.
Observerships for non-visa-requiring IMGs.
Considerations:
More accessible for those in the U.S. or with legal status.
B1/B2 allows observerships universally and clerkships if tied to a U.S. medical school per FAM guidelines.
Financial planning is critical for IMGs pursuing electives.
Description: Rotations requiring fees, often through agencies or prestigious programs.
Value: Structured experiences with administrative support, though quality varies.
Examples:
Houston Medical Clerkships (mixed reviews).
FIU clerkship (expensive, criticized for limited hands-on).
Considerations:
Costs can be high (e.g., $5,000 for university rotations).
Agencies like USDoctors.co or AMO have faced criticism for poor service or misrepresentation.
Description: Arranged without fees, typically through personal contacts or institutional volunteer programs.
Value: Cost-effective and potentially personalized.
Examples:
Observerships via networking (e.g., Mount Sinai via a resident sponsor).
Private clinic rotations through family or friends.
Considerations:
Harder to secure; success depends on proactive outreach.
May offer strong LORs if the preceptor is engaged.
How electives are secured impacts accessibility and planning.
Description: Formal applications through platforms like VSLO, connecting IMGs to academic institutions.
Value: Standardized, prestigious, and linked to residency programs.
Examples:
University of Pittsburgh cardiology clerkship.
Mayo or Emory clerkships.
Considerations:
Competitive; requires Step 1, student status, and extensive documentation.
Ideal for academic-focused applicants but less accessible post-graduation.
Description: Companies facilitating rotations for a fee (e.g., AMO, Houston Medical Clerkships).
Value: Simplifies access, especially for graduates seeking observerships or externships.
Examples:
Jackson Park Hospital rotations via agencies.
Surgical externship in Chicago (mixed outcomes).
Considerations:
Quality varies; some agencies misrepresent experiences (e.g., limited surgical cases).
Useful when other avenues fail, but research reviews carefully.
Description: Contacting institutions or physicians directly via email, websites, or networking.
Value: Personalized and potentially free, though less structured.
Examples:
Mount Sinai observership via Volunteer Services Portal.
Orlando Health observership through a sponsor physician.
Considerations:
Requires persistence; cold emails often go unanswered.
Success hinges on existing connections or targeted outreach (e.g., “I’m an IMG interested in IM observerships…”).
To leverage electives fully, IMGs should focus on:
Networking and Building Connections:
Engage with attendings, residents, and staff actively.
Attend rounds, grand rounds, and informal events.
Express specialty interest to secure mentorship or advocacy.
Securing Strong LORs:
Request LORs in the 3rd-4th week of the rotation, allowing time to build rapport.
Be polite and respectful; most preceptors will write a letter if asked courteously.
Offer a draft or outline if requested, ensuring specialty relevance.
Cultural Adaptation and Professionalism:
Learn U.S. healthcare norms (e.g., EMR use, patient communication).
Dress professionally, arrive punctually, and maintain hygiene.
Avoid distractions (e.g., keep phones away during rotations).
Advance Planning: Visa processing, application deadlines, and slot availability require months of preparation.
Match Cycle Alignment: Complete USCE before ERAS submission (September) to include in applications.
Records: Log experiences (dates, supervisors, tasks) for ERAS CV under “Work” or “Education/Training” as appropriate.
LORs: Request waived LORs for credibility; specialty-specific letters are ideal.
Research-Oriented Fields (e.g., Radiology, Neurology): Pair USCE with publications or conference presentations.
Hands-on Fields (e.g., Surgery, EM): Prioritize clerkships over observerships for skill demonstration.
Electives are a vital tool for IMGs to strengthen their residency applications, offering a pathway to showcase clinical skills, build networks, and secure LORs. By categorizing them into types (hands-on vs. observational), locations (university, community, private), specialties, durations, visa needs, costs, and application methods, IMGs can strategically select options that align with their goals. Whether pursuing a prestigious university clerkship or a cost-effective private clinic observership, success lies in engagement, professionalism, and planning. With this guide, IMGs can navigate the elective landscape confidently, enhancing their competitiveness in the U.S. residency match.
The University of Alabama in Birmingham provides a hands-on clerkship requiring a TOEFL score above 100, with tuition at $5,000 plus a $300 application fee (housing included, meals excluded). Visit https://www.uab.edu/medicine/internationalstudents/requirements and contact the international student office for application details and specifics.
At the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, a clerkship requires a TOEFL score above 95, USMLE Step 1, and a $125 application fee. Reach out to Nicole Moschetti at nmoschetti@salud.unm.edu or (505) 272-5526 to check availability and additional requirements.
Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia, offers a hands-on clerkship requiring USMLE Step 1 and TOEFL, with tuition at $3,500 plus a $500 application fee. Check https://med.emory.edu/education/visiting/ for current offerings and deadlines.
Grady Hospital, affiliated with Emory Medical School in Atlanta, provides an observership program. Download the application at https://med.emory.edu/research/documents/GradyObservshipApp.pdf and verify status with hospital administration.
Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland, offers an observership or research elective with tuition at $1,300 (fees may vary). Contact Mary E. Foy at vismed@jhmi.edu or (410) 955-3080 to clarify options, and see https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/som/VisMedStd/.
Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts, provides a hands-on clerkship with tuition at $4,900/month for students and $18,000/month for graduates. Apply online at https://application.exclerk.hms.harvard.edu/profile.aspx, noting the high cost for graduates and confirming eligibility.
Massachusetts General Hospital, also in Boston, offers a hands-on clerkship requiring USMLE Step 1, with tuition at $4,900/month. Contact the hospital’s medical education office (no direct email provided) and confirm Step 1 requirements via their website.
Boston University School of Medicine offers a clerkship in Boston for $150 per elective. Contact the university’s medical education office (no direct email provided) and verify availability online for this low-cost option.
Colorado University in Boulder provides a clerkship requiring USMLE Step 1, with tuition at $4,150/month. Contact the university’s medical education office (no direct email provided) and confirm details through university channels.
The University of North Carolina School of Medicine in Chapel Hill offers a hands-on clerkship requiring USMLE Step 1, TOEFL above 100, HIPAA, and OSHA training, with tuition at $2,500 plus a $100 application fee. Contact the university’s medical education office (no direct email provided) and prepare certifications, checking the website for applications.
The University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago provides a hands-on clerkship requiring a TOEFL score above 82 (26 speaking), with tuition at $2,200/month. Apply online at https://medicine.uic.edu/education/international/observership-program/ and confirm TOEFL submission.
Cook County Health & Hospital System in Chicago offers a clerkship limited to Trauma, Anesthesiology, and Burn specialties. Email ebravo@cookcountyhhs.org for availability and see https://cookcountyhealth.org/education-research/.
The Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio, offers an observership ($500 application fee, TOEFL required) or hands-on clerkship (USMLE Step 1, TOEFL, $400 application fee). Specify your preference and check requirements at https://my.clevelandclinic.org/departments/elective-program/apply.
Case Western Reserve University, also in Cleveland, provides a clerkship requiring USMLE Step 1. Contact Renee Pickel at SOMVisitingStudent@case.edu or (216) 368-3723, and see https://www.uhhospitals.org/.
The University of South Carolina School of Medicine in Columbia offers a hands-on clerkship for $150. Call (803) 216-3625 (USCSOM MIV electives) or (843) 792-6977 (SCAHEC Electives) to confirm specialties at this low-cost option.
Yale Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut, provides a hands-on clerkship experience. Apply online at https://medicine.yale.edu/education/visitingstudents/intlapplication/ and verify tuition and requirements.
UT Southwestern in Dallas, Texas, offers a hands-on clerkship in Urology, Pediatrics, and Surgery, requiring ACLS, with a fee of $150. Confirm ACLS and apply at https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/education/medical-school/visiting/international.html.
The University of Connecticut in Farmington offers a hands-on clerkship requiring USMLE Step 1. Contact the university’s medical education office (no direct email provided) and research details online.
The Texas Heart Institute in Houston provides a hands-on clerkship with no electives in Internal Medicine or Pediatrics. Email Dena Houchin at dhouchin@texasheart.org for specialty options.
The University of Florida College of Medicine in Jacksonville offers a hands-on clerkship requiring USMLE Step 1 and TOEFL, with tuition at $900/week plus a $30 application fee. Email Dani Brown at dani.brown@jax.ufl.edu for scheduling and application.
The University of Missouri - Kansas City provides a hands-on clerkship requiring TOEFL (above 23 reading/listening, above 19 writing), final-year status, and a one-year advance application, with tuition at $2,000 plus a $50 application fee and $1,500 mandatory housing. Check http://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/program-requirements.html and plan ahead.
The University of Massachusetts Medical School in Worcester offers a hands-on clerkship requiring TOEFL above 100, with tuition at $2,000/month plus a $100 application fee. Apply online at https://www.umassmed.edu/curriculum/advanced/international/ and confirm TOEFL submission.
Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston provides a clerkship with tuition at $7,500/month. Contact the university’s medical education office (no direct email provided) and verify specialties online, noting the high cost.
Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine in Maywood, Illinois, offers a hands-on clerkship requiring USMLE Step 1 and TOEFL, with tuition at $1,500/elective plus a $149 application fee. Email or call Rosemary Calcagno at rcalcag@luc.edu or (708) 216-3222 for elective options.
The University of Miami Harrington Program at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami offers an observership, primarily for Latin American students/doctors, requiring USMLE Step 1 or TOEFL above 80, with tuition at $1,000/month plus a $75 application fee (increasing to $1,200/month from July 2020). Email Olivia Cata at ocata@miami.edu and see http://imi.med.miami.edu/.
Florida International University / Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine in Miami provides a hands-on clerkship requiring BLS, with tuition at $2,700 plus a $300 application fee. Apply online at https://medicine.fiu.edu/education/international/apply/ and confirm BLS certification.
Larkin Community Hospital in Miami offers a postgraduate sub-internship requiring BLS/ACLS, with tuition at $700/week. Verify requirements at http://www.graduatemedicaleducation.org/postgraduate-sub-internship/.
In Clifton, New Jersey, an Internship/Observership with no tuition fee is tied to a review course company (ABIM board reviews), offering LORs on company letterhead from the CEO (an Infectious Disease specialist). It requires all USMLE steps completed (scores above 250 preferred), preferably ECFMG certified and Step 3 passed. Email karenbugno@awesomereview.com with a CV, letter of interest, and future goals, noting networking opportunities with residents and PDs.
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York offers a hands-on clerkship with tuition at $2,000/month plus a $1,000 application fee (includes 5 specialty choices). Email visiting-students@mssm.edu and specify preferred specialties.
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai St. Luke’s-West in New York provides a free observership, with a focus on Pathology. Apply via https://icahn.mssm.edu/ and contact Guy Smith at guy.smith@mountsinai.org.
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York offers a hands-on clerkship requiring USMLE Step 1, with a $100 application fee (no tuition, oncology only). Submit a letter explaining oncology interest and apply at https://www.mskcc.org/education/medical-students/elective/.
Cornell School of Medicine in New York provides a hands-on clerkship requiring TOEFL, final-year status, and a phone interview, with tuition at $2,500/month plus a $300 application fee. Apply at https://international.weill.cornell.edu/ and prepare for the interview.
Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn offers a hands-on clerkship, but only for affiliated schools. Contact Tina Marshall at Tmarshall@maimonidesmed.org to confirm affiliation status.
Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, provides a clerkship requiring USMLE Step 1. Contact the university’s medical education office (no direct email provided) and research details online.
Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, offers a hands-on clerkship with tuition at $6,000/elective. Email or call Steven D. Wilson at steven.wilson@duke.edu or (919) 684-8042, and see https://medschool.duke.edu/.
Lake American Family Physicians in Orlando, Florida, offers an observership requiring USMLE Step 1 and graduation, with a $150 application fee (no tuition). Apply at https://www.lakeamerica.com/Educational-Opportunity.aspx and confirm eligibility.
The University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia provides a hands-on clerkship requiring TOEFL, with a $150 application fee. Apply at https://www.med.upenn.edu/international/ and verify tuition costs.
The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine offers an observership (no Step 1 required) or hands-on clerkship (requiring USMLE Step 1). Check http://www.medstudentaffairs.pitt.edu/ and specify your preference.
UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh provides a pediatric-focused observership. Apply at http://www.chp.edu/health-care-professionals/ and confirm details.
The Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, offers a hands-on clerkship requiring USMLE Step 1, Step 2, and TOEFL, with a $350 application fee. Apply at https://app.applyyourself.com/ and prepare all scores.
Washington University of Medicine in St. Louis provides a hands-on clerkship with a $100 application fee. Email wusmelectives@wustl.edu and verify tuition costs.
Stanford University in California offers a hands-on clerkship requiring TOEFL above 100 and final-year status, with tuition at $6,000/month plus a $300 application fee. Contact the university’s medical education office (no direct email provided) and apply through university channels.
Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida, provides an observership plus research opportunity, with tuition at $500 for 1-3 months. Apply at http://www.cvent.com/ (observership) or https://moffitt.org/ (clerkship), specifying your focus.
The University of Texas San Antonio offers a hands-on clerkship requiring USMLE Step 1 and TOEFL. Apply at https://oume.uthscsa.edu/student-affairs/visiting-students/ and confirm details.
West Virginia University in Morgantown provides a hands-on clerkship requiring TOEFL and final-year status, with a $300 application fee. Email internationalelective@hsc.wvu.edu and verify tuition costs.
More Opportunities:
Cleveland Clinic
Program: Observerships and Electives
Description: Offers a variety of observerships and electives across multiple specialties.
Mayo Clinic
Program: Visiting Medical Student Clerkships
Description: Offers electives for final-year medical students, including hands-on experiences.
Mount Sinai
Program: Pathology Observership
Description: Provides observerships in the pathology department.
UT Southwestern
Program: Visiting Medical Student Electives
Description: Offers elective rotations for visiting medical students.
Yale School of Medicine
Program: International Visiting Medical Students
Description: Provides clinical electives for international medical students.
University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)
Program: International Visiting Medical Students
Description: Offers observerships and elective rotations.
University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)
Program: Global Health International Medical Student Program
Link: UPenn International Medical Student Clinical Application
Description: Provides clinical rotations for international students.
UPMC
Program: International Visiting Student Program
Description: Offers observerships and electives for international students.
Weill Cornell Medicine
Program: Visiting International Students
Description: Provides clinical rotations for visiting international students.
Case Western Reserve University Hospitals
Program: Visiting Medical Student Program
Description: Offers clinical electives and observerships.
Valedictorian MD
Program: USCE Sponsorship
Link: Valedictorian MD
Description: Provides free USCE for qualified candidates with high Step scores.
Florida State Neurology
Program: Neurology USCE
Description: Offers neurology rotations with attending physicians in Orlando, FL.
Heart and Vascular Institute, Detroit
Program: Externships
Description: Provides hands-on externships for international graduates.
SUNY Upstate Medical University
Program: Pathology Observerships
Description: Offers observerships in pathology.
University of South Florida (USF)
Program: Observerships
Description: Provides observership opportunities for international medical graduates.
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Program: International Observership Program
Description: Offers observerships in various departments for international medical graduates.
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Program: Observership Program
Description: Provides observerships in different specialties for IMGs.
Harvard Medical School
Program: Visiting Clerkship Program
Description: Offers clerkships to final-year medical students from diverse backgrounds.
Stanford University School of Medicine
Program: Visiting Student Program
Description: Provides clinical electives for visiting medical students.
University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)
Program: International Visiting Scholars Program
Description: Offers observerships and research opportunities for international scholars.
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Program: International Medical Graduate Program
Description: Provides clinical training and observerships for international medical graduates.
New York University (NYU) Grossman School of Medicine
Program: International Observership Program
Description: Offers observerships in various medical specialties for IMGs.
University of Southern California (USC)
Program: International Visiting Scholar Program
Description: Provides observerships and clinical research opportunities for international scholars.
University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine
Program: Visiting Clerkship Program
Description: Offers clinical electives for visiting medical students.
Duke University School of Medicine
Program: Visiting International Medical Students
Description: Provides clinical electives for international medical students.
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Program: Observership Program
Description: Offers observerships and clinical rotations for visiting students.
Baylor College of Medicine
Program: International Observership Program
Description: Provides observerships in various specialties for international medical graduates.
Emory University School of Medicine
Program: Visiting International Medical Students
Description: Offers clinical electives for visiting international medical students.
University of Virginia School of Medicine
Program: International Observership Program
Link: University of Virginia International Observership Program
Description: Provides observerships in various medical specialties.
University of Michigan Medical School
Program: Visiting International Students Program
Link: University of Michigan Visiting International Students Program
Description: Offers clinical electives and observerships for international medical students.
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Program: Visiting International Students Program
Description: Provides clinical electives for visiting international medical students.
George Washington University School of Medicine
Program: International Visiting Students Program
Link: George Washington International Visiting Students Program
Description: Offers clinical rotations for international medical students.
University of Washington School of Medicine
Program: International Visiting Students Program
Link: University of Washington International Visiting Students Program
Description: Provides clinical electives for international medical students.
University of Colorado School of Medicine
Program: Visiting Student Program
Link: University of Colorado Visiting Student Program
Description: Offers clinical electives and observerships for visiting students.
Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU)
Program: Visiting Medical Students Program
Description: Provides clinical electives for visiting medical students.
Accelerated Clinical Experience Program (ACE)
Institution: UC San Diego
Description: Offers clinical practice at UC San Diego Healthcare System.
ACMedical
Program: Medical Residency Auditions & Postgraduate Subinternships
Link: ACMedical
Description: Provides residency re-entry services for IMGs.
America Clinical Rotation JCMI
Institution: JC Medical Center
Link: JC Medical Center
Description: Offers clinical rotations and EHR training.
American Medical International Quality Training Observerships (AMIQT)
Institution: Washington, D.C.
Link: AMIQT
Description: Provides observerships in various specialties.
AMOpportunities
Program: U.S. clinical experiences
Link: AMOpportunities
Description: Offers clinical experiences at teaching hospitals.
Bridgeport Family Medicine Externship/Preceptorship Program
Description: Provides hands-on experience in family medicine.
Brooklyn USCE
Link: Brooklyn USCE
Description: Offers clinical rotations in various specialties.
Chicago Clerkships
Link: Chicago Clerkships
Description: Assists in securing U.S. clinical experience.
Clinical Rotation
Link: Clinical Rotation
Description: Offers observerships and clinical rotations globally.
Drexel Medicine® Physician Refresher/Re-entry Preceptorship
Description: Provides refresher and re-entry courses for physicians.
Find a Rotation
Link: Find a Rotation
Description: Connects IMGs with clinical experiences.
Griffin Medical Clinical Observership Program
Description: Provides observerships to familiarize with the U.S. medical system.
International Observership Program at Allegheny General and West Penn Hospitals
Description: Offers observerships for various healthcare professionals.
Jackson Memorial Hospital
Description: Provides observerships for physicians and healthcare professionals.
MD2B Connect US Clinical Experiences
Link: MD2B Connect
Description: Offers rotations in various specialties with mentoring by experienced physicians.
Somerset Family Medicine Externship/Observership
Link: Somerset Family Medicine
Description: Provides hands-on experience in outpatient family medicine.
UAB Selma Family Medicine Residency Program
Description: Offers rotations in rural family medicine.
USDoctors.co
Link: USDoctors.co
Description: Provides clinical training opportunities for IMGs.
USMLESarthi
Link: USMLESarthi
Description: Offers hands-on rotations and tele-rotations.
Westlake Brain Health
Link: Westlake Brain Health
Description: Provides observerships in multiple specialties.
SUNY Upstate Medical University Observership Program
Description: Offers observerships in various specialties with detailed application requirements and contacts.
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Observership Program
Description: Provides observerships in Internal Medicine with application details, fees, and contact information.
Find A Rotation - Clerkships by State
Description: Guide to clinical clerkships in the United States, with information on regulations and application processes for each state.
USCE, Observerships, Electives, and Hands-On Database
Link: USCE Database
Description: Comprehensive database of USCE opportunities, including observerships, electives, and hands-on experiences with application details and fees.
Cook County Health & Hospitals Systems (CCHHS)
Description: Offers clinical rotations and observerships in various specialties with detailed application requirements.
University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
Link: UPenn Global Health
Description: Provides services for international medical students interested in clinical elective rotations and research opportunities.
University of Miami (Jackson Memorial) Observership Program
Description: Offers observerships in various specialties with application details, fees, and contact information.
Griffin Hospital Observership Program
Description: Provides observership opportunities with application details, fees, and contact information.
Johns Hopkins University Observership Program
Description: Offers observerships in various specialties with detailed application processes and requirements.
University of Florida College of Medicine Observership Program
Description: Provides observership opportunities with application details, fees, and contact information.
University of Texas Health Science Center Observership Program
Description: Offers observerships in various specialties with detailed application processes and requirements.
Einstein Healthcare Network Observership Program
Description: Provides observership opportunities in various specialties with application details, fees, and contact information.
USMLE BRAZIL BRASIL