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International Graduate – Readiness to Train

  • International Medical Graduate

    International Medical Graduates (IMGs) bring unique perspectives shaped by their cultural backgrounds. A healthcare team with varied experiences and backgrounds enhances care delivery in a multicultural environment. It is essential for IMGs planning to train in the United States at the University of Florida to understand the social, economic, religious, language, and cultural needs of their American patients upon entering Graduate Medical Education (GME).

    In addition to meeting the prerequisites for matching into a U.S. program (NRMP, USMLE, ECFMG, VISA, etc.) and fulfilling the University of Florida’s requirements, IMGs should familiarize themselves with the necessary applications, educational expectations, cultural adjustments, and personal preparations required for relocating to, living in, and training in Gainesville, FL. The following information is provided to assist you in navigating this process.

    University of Florida College of Medicine Requirements:

    International Medical Graduates who intend to train at the University of Florida must contact: UF – Finance and Administration
    University of Florida College of Medicine (UF-COM) welcomes applications for residency and fellowship training from our international colleagues. The UF-COM will sponsor J-1 visas for residency training only through the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). The UF-COM will only, in limited case-by-case circumstances, sponsor any new H-1 type visas for training in any medical specialty. Permanent resident aliens who already have permanent work authorization are welcome to apply. All applications must be filed through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS). It is important that J-1 visa’s entering the United States wait to apply for a Social Security (SS) number until after checking in with their departments and SEVIS validation. Applying for a SS number prior to this may cause significant delays. 
    Once selected or matched for a training program, it is important that International Medical Graduates (IMG) complete requested paperwork as soon as possible so that all deadlines can be met. Additional information regarding a J-1 visa application can be found at: ECFMG, U.S. Embassies, Consulates and Diplomatic Missions. For further information, contact Sally Harvin, Assistant Director, COM HR Graduate Programs, 352-265-7304.

    Additional Resources:

    UF – International Student Center

    UF Department of Student Activities

    Education Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG)

    American College of Physicians

    Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME)