As we approach the 2025 residency match application cycle, it’s crucial to be aware of some significant changes to the ERAS Worksheet that were first introduced in 2024. The ERAS Worksheet is a vital component of your residency application, and understanding these changes can help you craft a more compelling narrative that stands out to […]
The residency application process is a crucial step for medical graduates, especially for International Medical Graduates (IMGs), who face unique challenges such as visa requirements and program acceptance history. With numerous websites offering residency information, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. Here are three steps to simplify the process and find the […]
Maximize Your Chances with IMG Friendly Residency Programs for 2025 Navigating the residency application process as an International Medical Graduate (IMG) can be daunting and confusing. With the complexities of visa requirements, program preferences, and IMG friendliness, it’s crucial to have the right tools at your disposal. This is where IMGPrepâs 2024 IMG Friendly Residency […]
ResidencyCAS Important Updates for OB GYN residency applicants While students traditionally have used the MyERAS portal to apply for medical residency in the US, starting with the 2024-2025 application cycle, all OBGYN applicants and programs will use a platform called ResidencyCAS instead of ERAS. Initiated by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) as […]
IMG FRIENDLY PATHOLOGY PROGRAMS Data on Pathology Match for IMGs According to the 2023 Main Residency Match data, pathology remains a strong option for IMGs. The NRMP (National Resident Matching Program) data reveals the following about pathology residency positions: Pathology is one of the most IMG-friendly specialties in the U.S. medical residency landscape. Many pathology […]
What is the SOAP Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program? How Do I Maximize My Chances for Success with a SOAP Match Strategy This article will provide an oversight of the evolution of the SOAP it components and how having an organized SOAP MATCH Strategy can assist this process. The Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP) […]
Challenges for older IMGs in U.S. residency Securing a residency position in the United States is a challenging endeavor for any International Medical Graduate (IMG), but it can be particularly difficult for older IMGs. This article delves into the reasons why older IMGs face these challenges and offers evidence-based insights on how these hurdles can […]
Are you an international medical student studying in Switzerland, Germany, the Czech Republic, Ireland, the UK, or any other country, and dreaming of matching into a top specialty in the United States? The journey might seem daunting, but with the right guidance and preparation, you can achieve your goal. At IMGPrep, we specialize in helping […]
Understanding the Residency Match Rates 2023 and Challenges for IMGs: A Comprehensive Analysis In 2023, the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) reported a match rate of 62.4% among IMG applicants who submitted a certified rank order list for the PGY-1 main residency match. This included a higher rate of 67% for US IMGs compared to […]
Becoming a medical resident in the United States is a challenging yet rewarding journey for Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs). The process is competitive and requires meticulous planning and dedication. In this article, we will explore key strategies that FMGs can employ to enhance their prospects in the Foreign Medical Graduates US Residency match process. 1. […]
Title: IMGPrep Guide for American Students -Selecting the Right International Medical School Introduction: Selecting the Right International Medical School is a crucial decision for any American student aspiring to return to the U.S. for residency training. With a myriad of options across the UK, Ireland, Central and Eastern Europe, South America, and Asia, the decision […]
Introduction The Occupational English Test (OET) is a critical step for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) aiming to join U.S. residency programs. This guide addresses key questions about the OET, focusing on its role in ECFMG certification and the residency match process. Q1: What is the OET and its significance for IMGs in the residency match […]
Strategies for IMGs in U.S. Residency Match: Navigating the Path to Success Introduction Strategies for IMGs in U.S. Residency Match are crucial for those aiming to become medical residents in the United States. The process is competitive and requires meticulous planning and dedication. In this article, we will explore key strategies for IMGs in U.S. […]
Introduction: DO Friendly Residency Programs Navigating the residency application process as an osteopathic medical student or graduate (DO) can be challenging. It’s crucial to understand which internal medicine programs are receptive to DOs to enhance your chances of success. This article focuses on DO-friendly internal medicine residency programs and illustrates how IMGPrepâs Customized Residency Lists […]
Easiest Residency Programs for IMGs ? Learn why searching for the easiest residency programs is the wrong approach. Securing a residency position in the United States as an International Medical Graduate (IMG) can be a challenging journey. In 2023, the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) reported a match rate of 62.4% among IMG applicants who […]
The journey toward securing a Neurology Residency in the United States for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) can be dissected into two primary dimensions: Quantitative (Q1) and Qualitative (Q2) metrics. An analysis of recent match data reveals that out of 846 available Neurology positions, 843 were filled, including 56 by U.S. IMGs and 170 by non-U.S. […]
Introduction to International Medical Schools for US Residency Pursuing a medical degree outside the United States is an option increasingly considered by many aspiring doctors. With various destinations like the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, and Eastern Europe, each offers unique opportunities and challenges. This blog aims to delve into the pros and cons of these […]
Residency Match for Older IMGs: A Strategic Pathway to U.S. Residency IMG Older Graduate Re-entry Program: A Strategic Pathway to U.S. Residency International Medical Graduates (IMGs) face a unique set of challenges in securing residency positions in the United States. A significant hurdle that often goes unnoticed is the implicit bias against older medical graduates. […]
Choosing to study medicine in an Eastern European Medical School is a decision of immense significance, especially for those aspiring to secure residency training in the United States. With over two decades of experience, IMGPrep has been instrumental in guiding Eastern European medical graduates toward successful placements in the U.S. This article explores the critical […]
Finding the right residency program is a complex and often overwhelming process for International Medical Graduates (IMGs). The IMGPrep Advantage Residency Lists offer a solution by tailoring the selection process, aligning programs specifically with your profile, and making the journey more navigable. Let’s explore how this approach goes beyond generic lists to create a more […]
JUNE Initiate your research into your desired programs. IMGPrep Customized Residency Program list to review specialties and your qualifications. Familiarize yourself with the eligibility criteria for taking part in ERAS and the NRMP Match, as well as for obtaining a U.S. state medical license. JUNE 28 It’s time to obtain your Residency Tokens. They are […]
Internal Medicine Residency Programs For Internal Medicine, 56 percent of US IMGs (1051 of 1877 persons) and 59 percent of non-US IMGs (2107 of 3591 persons) found matches in their preferred specialty in 2020. It was among the top 10 IMG Friendly specialties for that year. How many Internal Medicine Residency Programs are there? There […]
Applying for residency through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) involves a series of steps, and different organizations assist you along the way. Here’s a simplified guide to help you understand and navigate the ERAS residency application process. Understanding the Key Organizations There are three key organizations that you’ll interact with during your ERAS application […]
Medical Residency in United States Step By Step As an International Medical Graduate (IMG), gaining medical residency in the United States can be a multi-step, rigorous process. Knowing the requirements and following the correct procedure is essential to succeed in this endeavor. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate through the residency application process. […]
International Medical Graduates (IMGs) can utilize the Pathways program to satisfy specific prerequisites for ECFMG Certification and to engage in the National Resident Matching ProgramÂŽ (NRMPÂŽ) Main Residency MatchÂŽ (The MatchÂŽ). The ECFMG Pathways program assesses IMGs on their clinical and communication capabilitiesâskills essential for participating in U.S. graduate medical education (GME) and for delivering […]
Combined Residency Programs: Comprehensive Training in Dual Specialties A combined residency program is a medical training program that allows residents to complete training in two different specialties. These programs are designed to provide comprehensive training for residents who wish to practice in fields that require knowledge and skills in more than one area of medicine. […]
Preliminary vs. Categorical Residency-Type of Program Positions in Residency Match What’s the Difference Between Preliminary and Categorical Residency Positions? The Main Residency Match is a crucial event for medical students and residency programs. Understanding the different types of program positions can significantly impact your application strategy. This article explores the various program positions available in […]
2023 TOP Five IMG-Friendly States As an International Medical Graduate (IMG) seeking admission to a medical school in the United States, it is important to be familiar with the IMG-friendly states. The competition for residency programs can be fierce, so it is advisable to have a strategy that includes identifying states that are friendly to […]
When it comes to securing a US residency, International Medical Graduates (IMGs) have many factors to consider, and one of the most important is geographical location. IMG residency applicants need to not only research individual residency programs but also be aware of state limitations and the overall IMG friendliness of different states. To assist in […]
Learn if Pediatric Residency Programs are IMG Friendly. Yes, Pediatric Residency Programs are very IMG Friendly! In 2022 544 IMGs matched into Pediatrics and it was in the top five of IMG Friendly Residency Programs for both US and Non-US IMGs. The term “IMG-friendly” typically refers to the level of difficulty for international medical graduates […]
Introduction The traditional path to medical school in the United States typically involves obtaining an undergraduate degree and passing the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). However, there has been a growing trend among First-Generation American Indian students who are opting to pursue medical education in India right after high school. This distinct choice offers several […]
NRMP SOAP Questions Answered The National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP) is a process that takes place after the Main Residency Match. It is used to fill residency positions that went unfilled, known as “unfilled residency positions,” during the Main Match. The SOAP is open to unmatched applicants, those who […]
It’s common knowledge that some residency specialties are more IMG-friendly than others. Therefore, when applying for residency, International Medical Graduates (IMGs) have to account not just for their credentials but also for the competitiveness of their specialty. For that, it’s imperative to study past trends and get an insight into the specialties that are more […]
When deciding your specialties for the 2023 match, it’s essential to know which specialties have been IMG-friendly in the past. IMG-friendly means that a specialty has historically been quite receptive to training applicants who are international medical graduates. Top IMG Specialities for US and Non-US IMGs in 2021 A US IMG is a US citizen/Green […]
The National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) describes an International Medical Graduate (IMG) as a physician who received a basic medical degree or qualification from a medical school located. Outside the United States and Canada. If you are an IMG who wants to pursue residency training in the United States, here’s the IMG residential application timeline […]
IMPORTANT- ECFMG will not be accepting further 2022 Pathway applications. Furthermore moving ahead, the ECFMG will not determine the outcome of a Pathways application until all required supporting documentation has been received. Assessment of English Fluency and other Communication Skills A satisfactory score on the Occupational English Test (OET) Medicine is mandatory for all IMGs, […]
As of 2024, applicants seeking ECFMG Certification must have attended a medical school that is appropriately accredited. More specifically, the school must be accredited by an accrediting agency that is officially recognized by the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME). To see appropriate agencies by region of your medical school officially recognized by the WFME […]
Step-by-step guide on how a foreign pharmacy graduate can become a licensed pharmacist in the United States Here are the general steps that you can follow to become a licensed pharmacist in the US as a foreign-trained pharmacist: Step 1: Obtain a degree in pharmacy To become a pharmacist in the US, you must have […]
IMGs face unique challenges when applying to the US Residency Match. As an IMG, itâs wise to gather as much information as possible to help you understand what you can do to improve your chances of matching at a program of your choice. Below, we take a look at some statistics on IMGs and their […]
Per the ECFMG Pathways 2022 applicants: Please remember that it is your responsibility to ensure that ECFMG receives required documentation in support of your application by the published deadlines. See the page for the Pathway to which you are applying for deadlines. http://ow.ly/6svy50HeiKS Pathway 1 is for applicants who currently hold or have recently held […]
January 26, 2022-USMLE Step 1 Exam Goes to Pass/Fail As announced earlier, the US Medical Licensing Examination -Step 1 test of basic medical knowledge will transition to reporting only Pass/Fail rather than the current three-digit numeric score. This change has been anticipated for about a year, but now that the deadline is approaching, many IMGs […]
Psychiatry is the branch of medicine specialized in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders and common medical and neurological disorders that fall under the scope of psychiatry practice. How long is a Psychiatry Residency Training Program and how many Psychiatry Residency Programs are there? Psychiatry Residency Programs are Categorical Residency […]
Pediatric Residency Programs Pediatrics is the post-graduate branch of medicine that involves the medical care of infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatrics requires three years of postgraduate specialty training post-medical school prior to certification. There are currently 210 Pediatric Residency Training Programs in the United States. While there are many top Pediatric Residency training programs, according […]
What’s your SUVY? How to find IMG friendly residency programs based on your parameters One of the most vital steps in applying to a U.S. Medical Residency program is selecting the best IMG friendly residency programs given your SUVY Donât know what that is? IMGPrep is here to help. Letâs face it. As an international […]
ECFMG certification process for the 2022 Match: Updated Six Pathways May 08, 2021 Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) Certification requires passing examinations in medical sciences, clinical skills, and communications skills. The USMLE discontinued the Step 2 Clinical Skills (CS) exam in 2020. In the 2021 Match, the ECFMG replaced the CS exam with […]
ECFMG Mini-CEX for Pathway 6 The Mini-CEX is a well-studied workplace-based assessment tool used to evaluate an individualâs clinical skills in a variety of clinical settings. The ECFMG has chosen the Mini-CEX as the clinical assessment exam for Pathway 6. Who is eligible for ECFMG Pathway 6? Applicant does not meet the eligibility requirements for […]
IMG Friendly Specialties, Programs, and States: What It All Means for Medical Residency in 2021-2022 April 16, 2021 Nationally each year, approximately 58 percent of IMG applicants are matched with a residency program; that is compared to a 95-percent placement rate for non-IMGs. Thus, IMGs face unique challenges in finding the right program. Informed research […]
Is Neurology an IMG-Friendly Specialty? Neurology Residency Programs For Neurology, 58 percent of US IMGs (75 of 130 persons) and 68 percent of non-US IMGs (212 of 313 persons) found matches in their preferred specialty in 2020. It was among the top 10 IMG Friendly specialties for that year. Neurology is the branch of medicine […]
For Pediatrics, 72 percent of US IMGs (219 of 306 persons) and 68 percent of non-US IMGs (335 of 490 persons) found matches in their preferred specialty in 2020. It was among the top 10 IMG Friendly specialties for that year. How many Pediatric Residency Programs are there? There are currently 210 Pediatric Residency Programs. New Pediatric […]
For General Surgery, 42 percent of US IMGs (92 of 221 persons) and 30 percent of non-US IMGs (69 of 230 persons) found matches in their preferred specialty in 2020. It was among the top 10 IMG Friendly specialties for that year. IMGPrep is a leading educational consulting firm dedicated to assisting IMGs in reaching […]
For Pathology, 45 percent of US IMGs (53 of 117 persons) and 68 percent of non-US IMGs (211 of 309 persons) found matches in their preferred specialty in 2020. It was among the top 10 IMG Friendly specialties for that year. IMGPrep is a leading educational consulting firm dedicated to assisting IMGs in reaching their […]
Background: Prior to the Registering for the USMLE Step1 What is the USMLE Examination? The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE: https://www.usmle.org) provides a direct route for primary licensure of all graduates of LCME (Liaison Committee on Medical Education)-accredited medical schools within the United States, Canada, and all international medical graduates of accredited osteopathic medical […]
With the launch of the 2022 Match season a few months away, USMLE has decided it will cancel the Step 2 Clinical Skills (CS) exam that has been a required part of US residency program applications since 2004. The test had been suspended last May with the advent of Covid-19 when USMLE said it would take 12-18 […]
Introduction: Every year, medical school graduates around the world diligently put together their applications for US-based residency programs with dedication, care, and high expectations. Most rely on the matching service of the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) and its ability to line up the priorities of residency program directors with the priorities of the applicants […]
Match Week is scheduled for March 15-19, 2021, and IMGs need to be aware of some important interim deadlines between January and March. IMGPrep is pleased to present âMatch Week and the Second Chance (SOAP) Program: An Information Guide for IMGsâ that is specifically designed to help International Medical School Graduates (IMGs) to prepare for […]
**UPDATE 01/26/2021 The Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) and NBME, co-sponsors of the United States Medical Licensing ExaminationÂŽ (USMLEÂŽ), are today announcing the discontinuation of work to relaunch a modified Step 2 Clinical Skills examination (Step 2 CS). https://www.usmle.org/announcements/ The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) is the one examination system accepted in every state, ensuring […]
 How do I become ECFMG Certified? Hereâs the STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS We will consider the case of Carolina Sanchez, a graduate of a medical school in Brazil. Carolina would like to apply for a Residency in the U.S. but is not sure what to do. Here is a step-by-step approach to acquire ECFMG Certification: STEP 1: […]
What is the ECFMG Certificate? Letâs start at the beginning. The ECFMGÂŽ, the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (www.ecfmg.org), is a private, nonprofit organization, employing more than 800 people. Headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, it was established in 1956 and issued the first Standard ECFMG Certificates two years later. Since then, it has certified more […]
The vast majority of Residency programs have pivoted toward virtual residency interviewing using an online platform in response to the health and safety dangers of in-person activities brought on by the global pandemic, as stated in mid-2020 by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): âGiven the need for all of us to support the […]
For the 2020-2021 Residency Match Season, the interview process for the thousands of programs across the United States will necessarily be done remotely due to the COVID-19 restrictions that have been put in place generally for Graduate Medical Education (GME). This article describes newly recommended changes and restrictions and offers some guidance for what to […]
On July 31, 2020, the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical School Graduates (ECFMG) provided an important update for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) who have not yet taken the Step 2-CS exam. They announced that starting August 31, their long-awaited instructions for how to pursue what is becoming known as âThe Five Pathways,â which are some […]
IMGPrep is pleased to present the IMGPrep Guide to Writing a Personal Statement IMGPrep Guide to Writing a Personal Statement that is specifically designed to help International Medical School Graduates (IMGs) in preparing a compelling personal essay as part of their applications for medical residency programs. The two-page guide is downloadable from the IMGPrep website and […]
As of June 23rd, IMGs have been able to obtain their ERAS Token as part of applying for US-based residency programs. This is an exciting time not only for IMGs, but also for the residency programs as well. They are welcoming their incoming class of interns and graduating their seniors. It is also the time […]
Starting on June 23rd, International Medical School Graduates (IMGs) can obtain their ERAS Token that is required in order to apply for US-based residency programs. This article provides basic information about the steps and organizations involved and offers information on changes that are taking place for the current application season in light of the COVID-19 […]
Every year, International Medical School Graduates (IMGs) research their preferred US-based residency programs and prepare their applications for submission. Each individual starts the matching process by registering with the National Resident Match Program (NRMP).If two applicants want to find placements within the same geographic area, perhaps because they are spouses or partners or friends, the […]
We are excited that the US Residency Program Match annual application season is up and running in spite of a period of uncertainty due to the pandemic. Just this week, ERAS issued its dates for the 2021 Residency Application Cycle. According to the new timeline released by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), applicants […]
2020 NRMP Main Residency MatchÂŽ: Match Rates by Specialty and State study, the Top 10 Most IMG Friendly States are: The Top 10 Most âIMG Friendlyâ States in 2020As an International Medical Graduate (IMG), when you consider what US-based residency programs to apply to, a critical factor is also knowing where to apply. When it comes to […]
IMGPrep the Top 10 Most IMG Friendly States When International Medical Graduates (IMGs) are considering where to apply for their US-based residency programs, they often have their own personal preferences, yet a look at trends as to which locations offer the best opportunities for a successful match is key. Having a strong, well-developed ERAS application is […]
Overview One of the important requirements of many residency program applications is the Medical School Performance Evaluation (MSPE). While also known as a âDeanâs Letterâ the MSPE is much more than a simple letter and includes several components. The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) has established guidelines that include a suggested template, and some […]
Informed decision-making is a common phrase in medicine but most importantly it is the key to optimizing positive outcomes, especially in making the important decisions in preparing yourself for the US Residency Match. At IMGPrep, our first question for candidates is where it is you see yourself in the next 3-5 years. What is your […]
How do I get a medical residency in the USA as an International Medical Graduate? U.S. Medical Residency for International Medical Graduates (Foreign Medical Graduates – FMG) is a common goal, but the path to IMG Residency Match in the USA can be confusing and overwhelming. If you are an IMG (earlier used abbreviation FMG) […]
Are you interested in applying to medical residency in the USA? Do you wonder how you can increase your competitiveness in the IMG Residency Match ÂŽ? As an IMG Residency Match candidate, you must have a fundamental understanding of the Residency Match process. To do so, it is imperative that you understand Residency Match statistics […]
What is the purpose of the Medical Residency Personal Statement? A personal statement is the sole document where an applicant is provided a blank slip of paper and has full control of presenting themselves to the Residency admissions committee. Your Personal Statement for Residency is not an exam that will score you or a LOR […]
Residency personal statement – How to write? Many IMGs are nervous about how to write a personal statement for residency. For applicants who are still mastering English, the thought of writing a page-long essay can seem daunting. Worse still, ERAS application directives are vague, and many applicants are not sure what they should write about, […]
50 Most Common Medical Residency Interview Questions Residency interview questions are what you need to be prepared for when it comes to interviewing. To answer difficult residency interview questions with the confidence you need to understand the purpose of the question, and how the question relates to the unique scenario offered by the residency program. […]
Related link: Residency Interview Preparation Service How To Get Ready for an Interview, Top Residency Interview Prep Tips. There are residency interview prep tips you must keep in mind while preparing for a medical residency interview. All of these steps will be revisited and reinforced during the IMGPrep Residency Mock Interview, where our professional interviewers […]
Have you submitted your ERAS application to desired residency programs and received no reply? Now is the time to consider contacting some of these programs to request that they reconsider your application. The following is a step by step process that has yielded positive outcomes for some of our candidates. Why not give it a […]
Programs have strict residency program requirements and youâll be competing against other qualified candidates. Adhering to the residency programs requirements and applying only to programs for which you qualify will get your application the most reviews. With a carefully prepared application and some hard work, you can catapult your application to the top of the […]
Medical Residency Interview Specificities and Importance The first thing to do is not panic! You can approach your medical residency interviews the same way you approached all of your USMLE exams, by careful, deliberate, and methodical preparation. At the same time your interaction during the interview and visit is one of the top three factors. As […]
ITâS TIME TO STRATEGIZEâŚ. ⢠What can you do in the next year to improve your chance to match? ⢠Can you realistically assess your credentials and determine what you can do to be more marketable and get more residency interviews next year? ⢠Whatâs missing? Thoroughly review your ERAS application. ⢠Do you have […]
What is the purpose of the Medical Residency Personal Statement? A personal statement is the sole document where an applicant is provided a blank slip of paper and has full control of presenting themselves to the Residency admissions committee. Your Medical Residency Personal Statement is not an exam that will score you or a LOR […]
How should International Medical Graduates prepare for the US residency match? What would be the best path to ensure success? International Medical Graduates making the decision to pursue postgraduate medical education training in the US are on a rewarding path, but not a simple one. The process is not only academically competitive, it also requires […]
âWhich residency programs should I apply to?â âWhich residency program list is IMG Friendly?â “What are the best IMG Friendly Residency Programs for me to apply to?” We get these questions all the time. But thereâs another important aspect of the application process that many applicants do not consider. Not only is it important to […]