An IMG should plan the journey as connected deadlines: verify school eligibility, complete required exams, meet the applicable ECFMG Pathway and OET requirements, build the residency application, apply through the correct service, register with NRMP, interview, certify a rank list, and prepare for Match Week.
What to remember
- Verify the school before spending
- Map exams to the application cycle
- Treat certification and the Match as separate processes
- Start documents and letters early
- Use official applicant-category data
Phase 1: verify the foundation
Confirm that your medical school and graduation status meet the current ECFMG eligibility requirements in the World Directory. Review identity and credential requirements before paying for exams or services.
Phase 2: exams and certification
- Pass Step 1 and Step 2 CK for the medical science examination requirement.
- Meet clinical and communication skills requirements through the correct Pathway when applicable.
- Obtain the required OET Medicine result and release it correctly.
- Complete credential verification and monitor expiration or revalidation rules.
Phase 3: build evidence for residency
Plan clinical experience, specialty commitment, letters, research or quality work, and a coherent application narrative. Requirements and preferences vary by program, so distinguish official requirements from program-specific strategy.
Phase 4: apply, interview, and rank
ERAS or another application service sends applications to programs. NRMP is the matching service. Register for both processes when required, use signals strategically, prepare for interviews, and rank programs in your true preference order.
Questions students ask
Do IMGs need Step 3 before applying to residency?
Step 3 is not a universal requirement to submit a residency application. Some candidates take it for strategic or visa-related reasons after meeting eligibility; program and personal circumstances differ.
Are ERAS and NRMP the same?
No. The application service delivers materials to programs. NRMP manages registration, rank order lists, and the matching process.
Primary references
Policy and format details were reviewed against these sources on August 8, 2026. Always verify a rule before making an application or scheduling decision.
2027 ECFMG PathwaysOfficial source ↗2027 ERAS Residency TimelineOfficial source ↗NRMP Residency ApplicantsOfficial source ↗