Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Repair
Foreign And International Medical Graduates
Common questions regarding International Medical Graduates
Does your program accept International Medical Graduates (IMG)?
Yes, we do!
How do I apply to the Neurosurgery Program?
All applications are accepted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). We encourage you to have your application submitted as soon as possible, and typically start our initial reviews in late September.
Do you accept the J-1 Visa?
Yes, we sponsor ECGMG J-1 Visas.
To qualify for the H sponsorship, the GME Candidate must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Pass the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination ( USMLE ), Steps 1, 2, & 3
- Show competency in oral and written English by passing an English proficiency examination acceptable to the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). Currently this is the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
- Has a full and unrestricted license to practice medicine in a foreign country or has graduated from a medical school in a foreign country.
- Has a license or other authorization required by the state of Florida to practice or receive graduate medical education or training.
Do you have USMLE Score Requirements?
IMG applicants do not have any additional or unique requirements. All applications are reviewed in and given consideration on an individual basis, looking at the applicant's total performance including C.V., transcripts, test scores, research, clinical experience, personal statements, and letters of reference. We are looking for candidates that are well rounded in their academic and clinical pursuits.
We do not currently have a hard cut off for our Step I and Step II Scores. With that said, we understand that applicants incur financial charges with each application and would like to offer some transparency for your consideration. Applicants with a score, or scores, below 235 are subject to increased scrutiny with regards to the other areas of their application, and applicants with score(s) below 220 will have a very difficult time reaching the interview phase.
Is ECFMG certification required? Yes
Is ECFMG certification required before one can apply?
If your certification is pending, you will still be able to apply through ERAS, but you must satisfy this requirement before an interview can be extended.
What if I do not have my Step II scores back yet?
IMG applicants are required to have ECFMG Certification, which is dependent on successfully passing Step I and Step II.
Is U.S. Clinical Experience required?
It is strongly encouraged.