International Med Ed

International Medical Graduates (IMG) toolkit: Finding a residency

Learn the steps for identifying, applying and matching with a U.S. residency program.

Updated | 5 Min Read

International medical graduates (IMG) should follow some crucial steps to enter a residency program in the U.S. These include passing the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) exams and submitting applications to multiple programs to increase their chances of being matched to a residency program.

Search FREIDA™ for a residency or fellowship

Get access to the member-only residency guide, calculator and dashboard where you can save, compare and rank programs.

1. Register for the USMLE

The Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG,a member of Intealth) certifies the qualifications of IMG physicians before they can begin their U.S. graduate medical education or “residency” training. Students register with the ECFMG to begin the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) application process.

Members only

Members, please log in to view the International Medical Graduates (IMG) Toolkit.

AMA membership has its advantages

  • Resources for navigating the U.S. health care system
  • Information on visas, mentorships and observerships
  • Exclusive perks and savings

Not a member? Become a member now.

Additional resources for IMGs

Close up of diverse group of health professionals' hands stacked on top of each other

Join the International Medical Graduate Section (IMGS)

FREIDA logo

Unlimited Access to FREIDA™

Medical professional touches tablet

Guidelines for establishing an observership