Registration is now open for the AMA's Distinguish Yourself IMG Summit in Chicago, taking place Wednesday, Aug. 26 and Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026. This special event will feature IMG-specific education sessions on leadership, research, advocacy and preparing for the Match as an IMG.
Registration includes an evening networking reception and free professional headshots. Space is limited.
Programming is designed for ECFMG certified IMGs awaiting to Match. All physicians are welcome to attend.
Registration
Registration pricing
- ECFMG-Certified IMG Awaiting Residency or Resident—AMA Member: $125
- ECFMG-Certified IMG Awaiting Residency or Resident—Non-Member: $175
- Physician—AMA Member: $195
- Physician—Non-Member: $245
Questions? Please contact Paul Wells [email protected].
Preliminary agenda
All sessions and times are subject to changes. All times are Central.
Wednesday, Aug. 26
5-7 p.m.—Welcome reception
- Networking reception featuring hearty appetizers, beer and wine
- Complimentary professional headshots
Thursday, Aug. 27
8-9 a.m.—Registration & networking breakfast
9-9:15 a.m.—Opening keynote address
9:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.—Core programming
- Navigating the Match: Navigating the U.S. residency match process as an IMG, with a special focus on how to distinguish yourself and leverage AMA resources like FREIDA™ to simplify your residency search.
- Anatomy of a Standout CV: How to highlight your international experience, clinical skills, and research achievements in a way that resonates with U.S. residency programs. Attendees will also learn how to make their CVs stand out by presenting their work at national platforms like the AMA Research Challenge for a chance to win $10,000.
- Present Like a Leader: Strategies for effective communication and interview preparation that set International Medical Graduates apart, with a focus on leadership skills that will help you advocate for the issues you're passionate about.
- Road to Research: Opportunities and pathways for IMGs to get involved in U.S.-based research. Learn how contributing to the research community can strengthen your residency application and your role within the broader medical community.
- Navigating H1-B and J1: In the 2025 academic year, over 3,000 IMG physicians from over 100 countries were offered visas to facilitate residency training in different specialties. Different visas have different requirements. Learn which might be best for your situation.
12:30-1:30 p.m.—Mentorship luncheon
- Boxed lunches available
- Complimentary professional headshots
1:30-3:20 p.m.—Breakout sessions
- AI as a Tool: Practical Applications for the Residency Journey: This session will provide a hands-on look at how IMGs can integrate AI into their residency preparation. From optimizing CV language and personal statements to simulating interview scenarios and organizing research, attendees will explore high-impact, practical applications of AI.
- From Match to Money: Financial Literacy for IMGs: This session equips IMGs with the foundational financial knowledge needed to navigate their transition into U.S. residency and early practice. From understanding compensation structures to managing debt, taxes, and savings, attendees will gain practical guidance to make informed financial decisions early in their careers.
- AMA Advocacy Roundtable: An interactive roundtable bringing together IMGS leaders and AMA advocacy representatives to discuss the key policy and advocacy issues impacting IMGs today. This session will provide attendees with a clear understanding of how AMA policy is created and how IMGs can actively participate in shaping the future of medicine in the U.S.
3:30-4 p.m.—Closing remarks
Hotel & travel
Discount rates for AMA members are available at nearby hotels. Please note that these rates apply only to individual hotel reservations, based on availability, and may not be offered on all dates.
The Royal Sonesta Downtown
71 E. Wacker Drive
Chicago, Illinois 60601
15% discount off the Best Available Rate (excluding $28 destination fee added to each reservation). Reservations can be made by calling Sonesta at 800-766-3782 and asking for the American Medical Association corporate rate or online using corporate/promo code AMED.
The Hyatt Regency Chicago
151 E. Wacker Drive
Chicago, Illinois 60601
15% discount off the Best Available Rate. Reservations can be made online using corporate/group code 43261.
The Langham Chicago
AMA Plaza, Floors 1-12
330 N. Wabash Avenue
$390 rates for a deluxe room. Reservations can be made by calling the Langham at 312-923-9988 and asking for the American Medical Association rate or online using corporate/promotion code 10253.
Hertz car rental
AMA members can enjoy everyday savings up to 25% on Hertz car rental base rates. Choose from luxury sedans, sports cars, SUVs, trucks, vans and more at participating locations worldwide. Plug, benefit from day one when you join Hertz Gold Plus Rewards®. Learn more
