Applying to a U.S. residency program can be a daunting experience, but AMOpportunities has numerous resources to help you along the way. Completing an AMOpportunities rotation is a good first step to deciding whether you would like to apply to a U.S. residency program. Observerships help introduce international medical graduates (IMGs) to the American healthcare system and hospital environment. Check out these guides to help you along every step of the residency application process, but first check out this step-by-step article on how to become a physician in the United States.

Completing a U.S. Observership

This article takes you step by step through applying for, enrolling in and coordinating an observership with AMOpportunities. After you’ve completed an observership in the United States, you will have a solid understanding of what it’s like to work in an American hospital. You can discuss these experiences in your applications and in your interviews for your residency program. Additionally, some observership programs offer letters of recommendation that will be a tremendous benefit during the residency application process. Check out this article for more information on LORs.

The Residency Program Overview

This article outlines the entire process of applying for a residency program in the United States. From the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) to the United States Medical Licensure Exam (USMLE). This resource takes you through the residency application process.

The USMLE

Check out this article for advice on breaking down the United States Medical Licensure Exam (USMLE). The exam has numerous steps, each with different components and requirements. Test prep is highly recommended to ensure success on each step. This article outlines the benefits of test prep in preparing for the USMLE. 

The C.V.

This article is a comprehensive guide to writing a curriculum vitae (C.V.). A CV is crucial for any residency application you submit as it tells program coordinators what you have accomplished and if you will be a good fit for their program. This article walks you through the entire process of writing a CV and includes tips for writing a successful CV to improve your chances of matching with a residency program.

Where to Apply

These two articles talk about the most IMG-friendly states and specialties. These states and specialties matched the highest number of IMGs through the Residency Match Process and are good places to start when thinking about which programs to apply to.

The Interview

So you have applied to numerous programs and have received an invitation to interview, congrats! Check out this guide for the top 10 most frequently asked residency interview questions to best prepare yourself for your interview.

AMOpportunities has plenty of resources to help you through the residency application process. However, the most important first step is completing a clinical rotation or observership in the United States to make sure applying for U.S. residency is something you want to do. Check out some of our rotations in various specialties across the United States!