The USA is one of the hardest pathways for IMGs to undertake, however, not impossible. The match rate for IMGs in 2019 was ~58%, which is not as bad as most would think. 

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As an IMG you will need to make yourself stand out from the US graduates, and there are a few things to consider:

• USMLE

  • Getting the best possible USMLE score in all Steps. Easier said than done, but for anyone serious in wanting to go to the US this needs to become a priority. Study for your medical school exams from USMLE resources so that you are ​constantly being exposed to the relevant content

  • There are several Steps to the USMLE that you will need to undertake before being able to apply to residency:

    • USMLE Step 1​

    • USMLE Step 2 CK

    • USMLE Step 2 CS (Cancelled until further notice)

• Placements

  • It is important to undertake clinical electives in the United States, particularly in the specialty that you may want to end up in. This helps make connections, and to show that you have experience in the US medical system. When doing your interviews, they do not know anything about Polish hospitals so any experience here won't help​. 

  • You can do this either with your summer practice or try to get modules counted as an elective. Most programs will require that you have completed USMLE Step 1 before getting a clinical placement

  • Try to do placements in IMG friendly states

    • FRIEDA is the AMA's comprehensive residency and fellowship database and allows users to sort programs by 30+ categories - including, the percentage of IMG residents among the body of trainees.​

• Top 5 Most IMG-Friendly States

  • Some states have shown that they are more receptive than others​

  • In 2018, according to NRMP Main Residency Match Data, these were:

    • New York - 1384​

    • Florida - 529

    • Michigan - 496

    • Pennsylvania - 462

    • New Jersey - 399

• Apply Early

  • In 2019, most interview invitations were extended by October. Getting your applications in as early as possible gives you a better chance at securing an interview​

  • In-person interactions matter! Yes, your USMLE score will play a big part, but if you can score an interview then this will boost your chances.

• Research

  • It has been found that IMGs more frequently have research, publications and conference presentations than their US-grown counterparts.​

  • IMGs also more frequently have a PhD

  • Research, particularly in your field of interest should be heavily considered.

• Letters of Recommendation

  • From US clinical experience within the specialty you would like to get into​

  • Should be written within a year of application to the residency program

• Personal Statement

  • The right Personal Statement focuses on dedication to one specialty and demonstrates strong English proficiency, medical knowledge, and positive skills and personality traits.​

• VISA Requirements

  • To participate in US residency programs for IMGs who are not citizens or lawful permanent residents you will need to obtain the appropriate VISA

    • H1-B - temporary worker

    • J-1 - Exchange visitor​

  • The ECFMG is authorised by the US Department of State to sponsor foreign national physician for the J-1 visa.