Changes For ECFMG 2024

In 2024, the ECFMG will require all applicants for verification to be graduates of accredited schools. What does this mean? What does it mean to international medical graduates?
In this video, we answer those questions.
Sources: ECFMG.org, WFME.org, WMDS.org
This video is for information purposes. Please check the sources mentioned for updates. If you are in medical school or are planning to attend, please check with your medical school. USMDPedia is not responsible for the ECMFG process. USMDPedia cannot advise on applications and decisions for medical schools or work in the USA.

[@jj5282]

This video is a lifesaver! The comments respond to many questions so make sure to read them! You have to ONLY BEGIN the application for ECFMG certification BEFORE 2024-----you do NOT have to COMPLETE the ECFMG certification by 2024. To BEGIN the application for ECFMG certification you ONLY NEED TO COMPLETE FORM 186!!! If you have BEGUN the application for certification (form 186) then you are SAFE!! This is great news, i was so worried!

[@USMDPedia]

Glad this helped you! Yes, you have to begin the process before 2024!

[@prataproy3925]

​@@USMDPedia sir can we apply during in medical school. I am 3rd year medical student can I register now or do I have to complete my medical school?

[@Default.0o]

hii what if you are 5th year medical student ..?can we begin..?

[@JulioCarRosales]

This is very informative; thank you so much for your time making this video. I really appreciate it. :)

[@ihu4090]

Thanks so much for this video. Please if I start the USMLE registration process now how long can I wait before starting the step exams? Is there a validity period?

[@azad7368]

Thank you so much for this video sir. However, I have a doubt regarding a point that you had mentioned. I am planning to enrol into a UK Medical School this Sep 2023. But, as per the current situation, the GMC has not been accredited by the WFME and hence all UK Medical graduates are not eligible to work or match residencies in the US. However, you had mentioned that if your school isn't recognized by the WFME, then it is best to study in countries like the UK .... I am a bit confused...pls help

[@talhaibrahim8634]

Thank you for this video. My medical school which I graduated from is not accredited yet and I'm not sure if it will be accredited before 2024.. is this new policy affect my medical school accreditation beyond 2024?

[@najlaali1809]

Thanks alot, I have a question If my university is not approved by the WDOM can I take the exam before 2024?

[@earth2ellie]

Is it possible to research the last date a university was ECFMG certified, seeing that the contract lasts 7-10 years?

[@surg2be623]

Hi, Thank you for the informative information - I do have some questions (apologies if covered already) if that's ok; I'm due to graduate from Hungry next summer and whilst the University is on the WDOM, it is without a sponsor and therefore no ECFMG. We're told it is being applied for and to..be patient. Could you please tell me if 1) how long does it take for a university to get approval? 2) can I currently apply for the USMLE step 1 without ECFMG? 3)how do they decide whether accept the university to have an ECFMG approved status? 4) If they approve after 2024, will that render my degree usless>? Please help !!!! Thank you again!!!

[@USMDPedia]

Hi there. Thanks for the questions. I might not have all the answers, but here it goes. 1. It takes around 1 year for a school to be approved for the WFME. That is the new requirement for 2024. 2. You need an ECFMG ID in order to take the USMLE exams. You cannot book or take any other way. 3. I am not sure if the ECFMG will continue to use the WDOMS for school approval as the school will need to be WFME approved or accredited. 4. If they approve after 2024, you would be able to apply once the school is approved/accredited for the ECFMG. May I ask: Is your school applying for WFME recognition? That will take 1 year or so. If your school has no note for ECFMG, then it is difficult right now. Once graduating, a good idea might be to work and get some experience, and then see if your school is accredited. Then you can apply for ECFMG.

[@eriiss7824]

Thank you so much sir I have 1 QST :If you apply in 2023 , you have to pass the step 1 in ONE YEAR OR YOUR REGISTRATION WILL BE CANCELLED? (There's parts of microbio and pharmaco and pathology i didn't study them yet , and 1 year won't be enough for me, what should I do?

[@ritwikroy7356]

Thanks a lot for the informative video. How long does the ecfmg certification last? I have heard it is not lifelong these days. So if i complete my certification (step2CK and oet) in 2023 and get certified but do not get residency by 2024 and if it expires later(after 2024) and my med school is not accredited at that time(after 2024), then will my certification be withheld(the second time)? and can I participate in the match the next year and the forthcoming years?

[@USMDPedia]

Hi there. At this time, if your certification is completed, and you do not get in, yes, there is an expiration date. If your school is not accredited at that time, you would need to start over. It really depends. I really feel that things may change again in the next year or two, but I cannot make any promise. Once you have completed your steps, certification can happen in several weeks.

[@_____hadamz]

When should I apply for usmle exams as international medical student

[@doc.leyla9]

Hello! I am from medical school, which is on the list for accreditation, but has not been accredited yet! I am planning to do my Step 1 in July 2023. At the moment graduates from my school can apply for Ecfmg certification. We do not know what is going to happen in 2024. My question is, if my school does not get accredited by WFME by 2024, but I already have my step 1 results, am I grandfathered into a process? In other words, I will not have any problems with my further Step exams and residency placements in USA, won't I?

[@USMDPedia]

Hello there! Thank you for the question. If you have taken Step 1 already, you are indeed grandfathered in. At the time of application for ECFMG accreditation - which means getting an ID number and taking the exams - your school needs to be approved. Other than that, you are okay!

[@cindyalejandraherrerasaban1211]

Hello, if I already sent my form 186 and have mi ECFMG ID means that I’m safe or I need to apply to Step 1?

[@asuezeigwe9381]

Hi Please do I still need an ecfmg certificate if I already have ecfmg epic verification?

[@MFateh2000]

Thank you for this video. If you don't mind I would like to ask if it's possible for a student in a university that will most likely not be approved by WFME by 2024 to apply for higher education (boards or whatever) in countries outside of the USA and Canada? Is it possible to apply to, let's say Germany, even if the university is not WFME accredited?

[@USMDPedia]

Hi there! Sorry for my late response to this! As far as I am aware, you can definitely apply for Germany. While Germany is in the process of getting WFME accreditation, I do not know if a WFME-accredited education is required. Some information can be found here www.anerkennung-in-deutschland.de/html/en/2688.php!

[@carlosaranguiz8260]

I have a question, if i apply for ECFMG what is the time for do the step 1 since apply ECFMG?

[@Krishna-vw7he]

One doubt..form 186 approved by ecfmg students before 2024 also liable for 2024 new rule?

[@addiszemenmoges5390]

Does this 2024 change policy also apply to EPIC verification?

[@Henryy5339]

Sir, individual medical school having listed in WDOMS needs ECFMG sponsor notes for applying ECFMG certification. Post 2024, the individual medical school who doesn't has ECFMG Sponsor Notes but then recognized in WFME+WDOMS, will those medical school be eligible for applying ecfmg certification?

[@mireiacantomoliner2526]

Good morning. I just found this video and it was very helpful! I do have a question though. What is it that we need BEFORE 2024? Just the ECFMG numer or do we need to pass all exams before 2024? Thank you very much!

[@USMDPedia]

Hi there. You need to make sure you have started the ECFMG certification process. That means submitting the Form 186. Once that is done, you can begin taking the exams. You do not have to pass all exams before 2024. Hope this helps!

[@mireiacantomoliner2526]

@@USMDPedia thank you very much! It does help :)

[@Allenloe_]

@@USMDPedia so does that mean for example, I’ve already submitted my form 186, and took my step 1 back in June, it counts as me started applying for the certification process, and this won’t affect me even if I finished all the other requirements to complete the certification process on or after 2024? (I’m studying in the UK and it’s not recognized by the WFME) Or do it mean I have to get certified before 2024 so that it won’t affect me?

[@USMDPedia]

@@Allenloe_ Hi there. I think you are all set. You submitted the form 186 and already took Step 1, so you are on the way to certification. The 2024 requirement is for those who start the process in 2024, not before. You should be okay!

[@Allenloe_]

@@USMDPedia thank you so much!

[@pvamshi98]

Hello sir. Serbia is not ecfme accreditation list will. Can Serbian medical schools get ecfme accreditation after 2024 or later

[@PriyankaSharma-we6zq]

Hello sir I have applied and I got ecfmg identification no. But I didn't get notary done because when iam scheduling the appointment its showing that all slot are booked, I emailed them again but I didn't get any response, currently waiting to get the notary is their any problem if I don't get notarized by this month because all slots are booked for this month

[@leeanncharles4523]

Hi sir I am a 3rd year and have written USMLE step 1. My school might lose accreditation in December 2023. Will I still be able to get certified in August of 2024 if my school does lose accreditation?

[@syedafatima2839]

Hi sir ! Very informative video , I have one question that I have completed my graduation from Kyrgyzstan as an international student ( from india) and applied for ecfmg Registration done with notary and all in 2019 but I am currently not in situation to write the exam so my question is if I want to write exam may be after 2024 and my school is not accredited than will I be valid to apply for steps or not as I have started the process back in 2024 before this rules came in !! Plz reply thanks In advance

[@USMDPedia]

Hello thank you for your question. May I ask if you received an ECFMG number yet? If you have, then you are okay. Hope this helps.

[@Adroit_tales]

Hello, I am a medical graduate from Nepal, and my medical school is listed in the world directory of medical schools. I will be applying for usmle in 2024, can you please tell me, how to know if my medical school is accredited by WFME? and if not, how should I proceed??

[@mrdoc693]

Hi sir, Do just start registration procedures on the ECFMG site and create an account (form) is enough to avoid the problem after 2024? Or by saying: If I register on site before 2024 only without taking of exams 1 and 2 .. And progressed( for example ) to the exams in 2026 or 2027 .. Will the file be on the old system either during the submission or during the matching later? (My college will not get the accreditation )

[@USMDPedia]

Hi there. You can register before 2024 which starts the process. You can only take the Step exams after completing 2 years of medical school. After your first Step exam, you have 7 years to complete the series. Once you have completed the exams, you will be ECFMG certified.

[@uttammakadia8187]

Do I need any kind of paper work done by my med school to get ID no and submit form 186 like Dean signature or something??

[@USMDPedia]

Sorry for the late response! Yes, you will need a dean's signature or someone like an official registrar of your medical school.

[@alaaadel8753]

High sir, thank you in advance Im from egypt, and i want to apply to ECFMG and take the USMLE exams My university is present in the WODMS and meets the criteria by sponsored note . The problem is that I didn't find its name in any pathway . Could you help me please? 0:04

[@usmle2232]

If I have given step 1 then can I give ck by next year ?

[@schoolacademy5580]

Sir if the university is presently not recognised but it's saying that in future it will be recognised when I will complete my degree so in this situation should I take admission in a university or not

[@USMDPedia]

Hi there. You should attend a university that you want to go to. If your school will be recognized, then you can go for that one.

[@mithumnavodayasenaratne2651]

Sir, My Med school is in world medical directory and in sponser notes they said that we are eligible for ECFMG certification process. But my school in not accrediated by WFME yet. So how can i know im eligible or not? Im still in 2nd year.

[@USMDPedia]

Hi there. Thanks for the question. If you are 2nd year, you can apply for ECFMG certification now by submitting the form 186. Certification must have started before 2024.

[@osmansemihkose6209]

Hello Sir, I'm about to start my 2nd year of medical school and my school is in the process of getting accredited in Turkey. If it is not able to get accredited by the time I graduate, would it be logical for me to apply for ECFMG certification (form 186) NOW, and take the exams after 2024? And my concern about this is; because the application is valid for 5 years what will happen if it expires before I take step 2/CK? I would be really happy to see your response. Thanks for the video.

[@USMDPedia]

Hello there. Thanks for the question. I would apply for certification now if possible. Is your school listed in WDOMS? If it is, then you can apply for certification. The rule for 2024 is for those applying in 2024; anyone applying before that is allowed to continue with the original system.

[@moondriqui429]

@@USMDPedia if the national agency of my country and my university get recognized after 2024, for example in 2025 can apply to ecfmg certif in the same year?

[@nikita8294]

Hello thank you for the video .. I wanted to know if i can apply for certification before taking any of the exams?(step 1, 2 or oet) I'm a final year student we'll finish in about next 6 months ..

[@USMDPedia]

Hello there! Yes, you can apply for certification before taking the exams. You can take them after you have been in medical school for 2 years.

[@nikita8294]

@@USMDPedia thank you so much for your reply

[@boscomendoza6932]

If I take USMLE step1 in 2023 and step 2 ck on 2024 does it will apply for my medical school?

[@USMDPedia]

Hello there. Will you have graduated by 2024?

[@tesla2262]

Hello My medical school is accredited by WFME but when I visit the website of accredited universities of the country I'm studying it states that the " accreditation decision does not include undergraduate course of clinical medicine offered to international students" ( I'm from India but I'm studying in China) . For now I'm eligible to apply via pathway 3 but I'm planning on giving my exam by 2026 ...do I have any problem with ecfmg certification? Will they accept either accredited medical school or program...or both are necessary? Could you clear this please?

[@USMDPedia]

Hello there! Sorry for the late response. Undergraduate course of clinical medicine is not the same as graduate work; medical school degrees that issue an MD should be okay. I am not sure of the decision to do that - it is up to the accreditation agency. For 2026, the requirements may change. I would check with your medical school to see what courses are accredited and that you could take!

[@uttammakadia8187]

I have the same doubt, In which uni do you study in china ? And any news regarding opening of border for international students?

[@RenatodoNascimento1]

I am sorry because you may heard these types of questions before, but my situation is that: I applied for ECFMG valid ID and got my ID this year, but i won't be able to fill the 186 form this year for ECFMG certification, only in the half of 2028 i will be able to, because it is when I graduate from my medical school and I will have the money to pay for that. But the question is: As long as I received the ID, i don't need to worry by the agency recognition? Although my medical school has great chances of getting it since is the best on the state I live in Brazil, I just want to guarantee myself. And as long as I have the ID can I pay for the 186 form in 2028 and get certified? It won't be too long? It would be pretty helpful if you could help me in this issue.

[@USMDPedia]

Hello Renato. Thanks for the question, and I understand why you are worried. If you have your ECFMG ID, you should be okay. Also, if your school or country is recognized by the WFME, that requirement does not really apply. To begin the certification process, you will need to have the Form 186 though.

[@RenatodoNascimento1]

@@USMDPedia Thank you very much! I appreciate it! But let's suppose that my school is not yet recognized by 2028, I really doubt that but just making a scenario to see if I am guaranteed, but I already have my ECFMG ID since 2023, can I start the process in 2028 with Form 186? The real issue is that while in med school i cannot apply because it is really expensive for me right now, but in 2028 it will be pretty feasible to pay, since doctors in Brazil make a good amount of money after finishing medical school.

[@agv_a-gh4bi]

Thank you so much for this really helpful video! Could you tell me please, what you would do in my case: I am a third year student at Medical University in Russia ( BSMU) , but have no idea what to do because of ban of those living in Russia due to political background. Hope you're gonna respond🙏 Thanks in advance !)

[@USMDPedia]

Hi there. Thanks for the thoughtful question. It is a difficult one. As of this time, it looks like the ECFMG has still suspended Russian applications for certification. I do not know if the UK and Canada have such a ban - I will have to check on that. Canada and the UK are good options for IMGs. Honestly, I would wait and see what happens over the next several months. I know it is your 3rd year - how many years is medical school in Russia? What are your options for transferring to another country?

[@agv_a-gh4bi]

@@USMDPedia Thank you so much for such a quick response! I study at faculty of general medicine which last 6 years that is 3 years left. It means that I cannot relocate to another country till the beginning of 2024 so that I could register for USMLE... When it comes to transferring to another country unfortunately I can't afford that unless we're talking about Germany ( in which education for foreign students is free). But for making that real I have to learn German and from there contunue my training in the USA. That is the only optional way if ECFMG decides to keep Russians banned. Or I can transfer to another university inside my country because due to some rumors there are about 4 universities which are gonna get accreditation after 2024. I guess you are right when suggesting to wait for some months to make the final decision

[@USMDPedia]

@@agv_a-gh4bi Hi there. Sorry for the late response. I think it is indeed better to wait. Transferring is not easy - you have to worry about credits and validation of courses, etc. I think as long as the WFME have accredited schools, then once Russian can leave, things should be okay. It must be hard for you!

[@agv_a-gh4bi]

@@USMDPedia thank you so much for your attention and support! Time will show... hope things gonna get better

[@USMDPedia]

@@agv_a-gh4bi Please stay in touch! I will keep checking for updates too.

[@user-jo2tg6dt8k]

I have a question If now i am in 2year medical school and i am planning to do the steps exam in 2027 and for example my university will not be recognized in 2024 so how could i do them or is there any solution to do the steps in 2027

[@USMDPedia]

Hi there. You should apply for an ECFMG number. As you are in medical school now, you can take the USMLE Step exams if you want. Is your school currently approved on WDOMS or listed by ECFMG or the WFME?

[@Drjoy804]

Sir I am from india but i am studying in Kazakhstan can i attend usmle

[@drpepper7801]

Hello sir My school is in WDOMS... I know it may not cover for the wfme after 2024. But my question if I write or register this year,2023 am I safe? Even though my school will not be in wfme for some time from what I know.... Thanks

[@USMDPedia]

Hello sir. Thank you for the message and question. If you apply this year for an ECFMG ID, you can begin the process even if your school is not registered. The process begins when you apply - at the time of registration, your school is approved.

[@RiteshkumarSalunkhe]

hello , this year I am going to take admission in medical school , my college is in list of wdoms but it is not sponsored bu ecfmge , will I able to give usmle in 2025 , and how to check my college is approved by wfme

[@USMDPedia]

Hello there. Thank you for the question. To check if your college is approved by either the WFME or an institute that works with the WFME, you can go to wfme.org and go to Countries served by agencies. You can see if your country is listed. If it is not listed, you will need to see if your college will apply for WFME itself. I do not know if you will be able to take the USMLE exams in 2025.

[@swathisrimuthukumar2879]

sir i have if start my med school in the year 2023 and if i get registered for ecfmg in in my 1st year before 2024 will i be able to take exam step1 after 2 years of med school in india.

[@USMDPedia]

Thank you for the question. It is possible to take Step 1 if you get registered. You will need to prepare well for it. Things may change for Indian medical schools by 2024, but at this point, it is not likely. Please always check with your medical school. I will work on keeping updates.

[@d-1452]

Hello I am in egypt and I will graduate from a university that is accredited from the ecfmg but it is not accredited in the Egyptian agency yet can I still apply for the usmle I will graduate in 4 years

[@USMDPedia]

Hi there. Thanks for the question. If your school is accredited now for the ECFMG (WDOMS listing or on the Pathways eligibility listing), you should submit your application this year. You will need to submit Form 186 from your medical school.

[@sharnawi]

So if your school is already in the world directory, you should be okay and can get your ECFMG certification after 2024?

[@USMDPedia]

Hi there. If it is in WDOMS, it might not work. After 2024, it needs to be a school approved by the WFME.

[@jorgegustavohernandez7290]

@@USMDPedia when checking WFME it suggests you and sends you to WDOMS, could you provide a link to WFME directory if different to WDOMS, thanks

[@USMDPedia]

@@jorgegustavohernandez7290 Hi there. Here is the link to the accreditation agencies listed on WFME. wfme.org/accreditation/accrediting-agencies-status/

[@lesionnervioradial6683]

Si hay médicos de Ecuador viendo este video, sepan que el Ecuador no está haciendo el proceso de reconocimiento y en el 2024 los graduados de todas las universidades del país no podrán aplicar a la residencia en USA. Por favor, compartan la noticia. Esto depende del CACES y no de las universidades.

[@USMDPedia]

Thank you for mentioning this!!! I am planning on doing a video for some areas that are not doing anything about the process.

[@bryane.macias4759]

si estan haciendo, de hecho el caces ya acredito a casi todas las escuelas de medicina del pais, en mediados de 2023 termina con el proceso de acreditacion

[@lesionnervioradial6683]

@@bryane.macias4759 Hola Bryan. Una cosa es la acreditación que el CACES ha hecho desde el 2014, pero otra muy diferente es el proceso que el CACES debe hacer para que las universidades ecuatorianas estén reconocidas por el ECFMG. Te recomiendo que leas la noticia en Edición Médica. De hecho, es algo preocupante para la educación médica ecuatoriana y los postgrados en USA.

[@lesionnervioradial6683]

@@USMDPedia Thank you very much! If possible, create a video about the countries in Latin America that are not recognized. I think neither Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia are doing the process of getting recognition by the WFME and ECFMG. My country, Ecuador, has a significant number of IMGs applying for ECFMG certification each year; however, nobody is doing anything. Neither medical graduates nor medical schools.

[@bilalkakar7723]

Hello My medical school is included in world directory of medical schools but we have not applied for ECFMG Sponsor notes so it means students of our college cannot appear in step-1 .But our college is recognised by country accreditating agency recently (pakistan medical Council) And country accreditating agency has applied for WFME recognition recently So Sir what we should do now ? We should apply for ECFMG sponsor notes or we can bypass it because till 2024 our college will automatically be recognised by WFME through PMC (Pakistan Medical Council) ?

[@keylabetanyfloresserrudo5431]

Same question

[@kanishkkrish3758]

this policy will come under act from january of 2024? suppose my med school is in world directory of medical schools and has ECFMG sponsorship in the the sponsors tab in but the indian agency NMC(national medical council of india) is not accredited by WFME, and i start my college in the end of 2023. will i still be able to apply for usmle? even when NMC is not accredited by WFME? is there a way around it? i cannot afford education from outside my country...... but my end goal is to work in USA.

[@USMDPedia]

Thank you for the question. If you are starting medical school in 2023, you would have to apply right away for ECFMG Certification to take the USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK. That might possibly help you. It would be difficult to study for everything, and it might not work. As of right now, as you said, the NMC is not accredited and it will take a lot of time to get accredited. I will post a video about non-accredited schools, so please check back soon. Right now, it is all up in the air for Indian IMGs and medical students.

[@kanishkkrish3758]

@@USMDPedia well that's unfortunate.......do i need to give some test too to get registered with ECFMG? also can you make a video on how to get registered with ECFMG and How to fill out the two forms the 183 and 186 mentioning the documents i will need to do so, so that i will get the registration process out of the way asap. Also please mention how much time it usually takes to get registered with ECFMG cuz i might be getting in the college in october or November of 2023. Will i have sufficient time to get registered with ECFMG? At the moment I'm really stressed out about getting in the college. Working really hard to get in one.

[@kanishkkrish3758]

@@USMDPedia you said i need to apply for ecfmg certification right away, by that you mean when i get in the college right? Cuz from what I've seen on the website, ill need to give my college details also while filling out the form.

[@USMDPedia]

@@kanishkkrish3758 I understand this situation is challenging for your and for other IMGs. There will be a video about alternative options for IMGs. At this point, it is up to your medical school and others to get accreditation. That is the key. Accreditation takes time. If an agency has a provisional or conditional accreditation, that is allowed. If the agency is in process, it will not apply. There is a video about ECFMG certification here.kzbin.info/www/bejne/mpime56DhcRgqcU

[@maximusjoe7806]

Hi sir , i have few doubts . 1. Will there be pathway’s after 2024 or will it be just one pathway which only allows candidates from wfme approved schools to apply for ecfmg certification 2. Since there is clause saying that “there needs to be a clinical skills evaluation and Attestation by your school” for pathways 3 now , i was wondering if clinical skills and Attestation would still be needed when ecfmg goes different from the current pathways in 2024. Kindly do reply if possible and thanks in advance :))

[@USMDPedia]

Thank you for the questions. There is no information for 2024 yet because the Match season is beginning soon for 2023. It is possible they will continue with the Pathways, depending on the data from 2023. For example, if Pathways 1 and 2 do very well, but other Pathways do not, that might influence 2024's process. The Pathways were used in 2021 and 2022, so I feel that they will continue. For your second question, we have to wait and see what the ECFMG decides. Again, they are focused on the 2023 Match, so I don't know when we will have new information for 2024. I do not think the approved schools requirement will go away.

[@maximusjoe7806]

@@USMDPedia thank you

[@MarcosOliveira-ck9hs]

Good morning every one Lets me see if I understand about this kkkkk I graduated in 2016 and I have USMLE/ECFMG Identification Number, but I didn't do the steps. My university is in the world directory. I have my USMLE/ECFMG Identification Number for 4 years. In my case this rules don't application? Do I follow the old process?

[@USMDPedia]

You have an ID number and can take the steps? Then you are fine. You have to start the process before 2024.

[@uttammakadia8187]

Can I apply for ecfmg ID and submit and notarized form 186 during first year of my med school ?

[@USMDPedia]

Thanks for the question. According to my sources, you can BUT you cannot take the USMLE Step 1 or Step 2 CK until after you have completed 2 years. And your school should be have a WDOMS note saying you can apply if you are doing it before 2024. Hope this helps.

[@uttammakadia8187]

@@USMDPedia okay, Thank you for replying!

[@sars308]

Sir if I register in 2023 for ecfmg id (without doing usmle step 1), am I able to do step 1 in 2024 (even if my college becomes not approved by wfme)? and THNX a lot ❤❤

[@USMDPedia]

Hi there. You can definitely register - once you have the ID, you can take the step 1 in 2024. The process was about at the time of application, your school was approved.

[@eriiss7824]

If you apply in 2023 , you have to pass the step 1 in ONE YEAR OR YOUR REGISTRATION WILL BE CANCELLED? (There's parts of microbio and pharmaco and pathology i didn't study them yet , and 1 year won't be enough for me, what should I do?

[@iremsavak427]

Hi, If my school is accredited after I graduate can I stil apply for ecfmg certification?

[@USMDPedia]

Hi there! As long as it is accredited by WFME you should be good to go.

[@iremsavak427]

@@USMDPedia thank you

[@whiterunguard3246]

HI, if I start the certification process today, can I apply for step 1 in 2026? does the certification have a expiration date?

[@USMDPedia]

Hi there. Certification means you have passed Step 1 already. You have to pass both Step 1 and Step 2 CK as well as OET to receive certification. Once you are certified, you can apply for residency. If your school is not accredited for 2024, you can begin the process by applying for it. You will get an ECFMG ID number. I hope this helps.

[@whiterunguard3246]

@@USMDPedia To clarify, once I receive my ECFMG ID number, do i have a limited time to start step 1? Or let’s say I receive it today, can I hypothetically start the steps in ten years? Or does the clock start ticking only after I start step 1 and fall in to the seven year maximum time?

[@USMDPedia]

@@whiterunguard3246 Hi there. Once you take Step 1, you have 7 years to complete Step 2 CS, so yes it begins once you take the first test.

[@whiterunguard3246]

@@USMDPedia Thx so much 🙏

[@ritawilliams3571]

Good day sir. Please my school will not be accredited, but it’s name is in ecfmg list as of now. I will be entering med school in January 2023. Can I register by 2023 and write step 1 USMLE in 2025 and the other steps in 2027? Will that be good? Please don’t ignore😖

[@USMDPedia]

Hi there. Thank you for the question. You can register for an ECFMG number to begin the process. Then you can take the Step 1 in 2025, and you have 7 years to take the next step, Step 2 CK.

[@ritawilliams3571]

@@USMDPedia Thanks so much. I appreciate

[@USMDPedia]

You're welcome!

[@amnaehsan2642]

I graduated from medical school that is not wfme accredited yet. I have done my step 1 and 2, preparing for oet and planning on doing some clinical experience in next few months. Can i not apply for next year match?

[@USMDPedia]

Hello there. Is your medical school listed on WDOMS? As you have done Step 1 and Step 2 CS, you have certification already? If you are already certified, you can apply for 2024. According to their site, it says the rule does not apply to individuals who are already certified.

[@amnaehsan2642]

I have given step 2 CK on 3rd august 2022 and got my result on 13th august 2022. I am trying to find that wdoms part on website but their search option isn't working.

[@USMDPedia]

@@amnaehsan2642 Hi Amna. Yes, the search option is not working for me too! Could be down this weekend? I just tried, but it is not working.

[@amnaehsan2642]

@@USMDPedia I checked today and it's included in wdoms list.

[@USMDPedia]

@@amnaehsan2642 That is good. It seems them you are certified? Did you get official certification? If you apply before 2024 and your school is in WDOMS, you can apply in 2023 or 2024.

[@maheenmazhar7732]

Hello sir ,i have a question .currently i am doing my house job in pakistan completed my five years ofmedical school .i want to take the steps exam and i also have a green card of united states .My question is that i apply for ecfmg id number 2days back if i get the ecfmg id number in one week and it will take almost 6months to get my degree transcript and then i will fill the form 186 Soo if it will take may be more than a year and may be 2024 starts uptill then to get 186form processed so it will go like previously or 2024rule will be applied on me ??Am i in safe zone or not ?? My 2nd question is that having a green card will favour me for residency or not ?? Please reply me sir i am concerned about it

[@USMDPedia]

Hello there. As long as you began the process of getting an ID, that is the most important part. Once you are ready to take your first USMLE exam, you then have 7 years to complete the series. It's great that you applied for the ECFMG ID. The rule is that "At the time of application, the medical school is approved. . .' You need to apply before 2024, then the requirement does not apply. As for a green card, it might work for you. It depends on the programs that you apply for.

[@maheenmazhar7732]

Thankyou so much sir for your reply Appreciated .. If you dont mind ,please make it clear that is it ok to apply for just ecfmg id or should i have to do some more before 2024?

[@fissehamulugeta6812]

If I apply now and get an ECFMG certificate until when can I take the USMLE step 1 or Step 2 CK? Because I am planning to take it after 2024

[@USMDPedia]

Thank you for your comment. Certificates are good until December 31, 2024. After you take your first USMLE exam, you have 7 years to complete all the requirements. If you are going to take everything in 2024, then it might be better to wait until then to get a certificate.

[@fissehamulugeta6812]

@@USMDPedia So if I pay and register now for the ECFMG then I wont be able to take the USMLE in 2024 if my school is not registered

[@USMDPedia]

​@@fissehamulugeta6812 According to the ECFMG, "If there is no ECFMG note on the Sponsor Notes tab of the medical school’s listing, its students and graduates are not eligible to apply to ECFMG for ECFMG Certification and examination." This listing is the World Directory. Basically, if your school is not approved by the agency in your country and/or the World Directory, you will not be able to take it.

[@fissehamulugeta6812]

@@USMDPedia I understand that Sir but my school currently is listed in the world directory but I don't think it will be listed in 2024 so I can get the certification now but will the certification be revoked in 2024 if my school doesn't get listed again?

[@USMDPedia]

@@fissehamulugeta6812 Thank you for clarifying that! As long as your medical school is accredited/approved at the time of application, you are eligible. Certification before 2024 is okay. I hope this helps.

[@earth2ellie]

So there is the WDOMS and then there is a list of medical schools eligible for Pathway on the ECFMG website. All the accredited and ECFMG eligible schools in the directory is not listed in the ECFMG Pathway list. Is there a specific reason why this is?

[@karimali9491]

Hi sir My college is in the world directory of medical school .. but it's not WFME certified.. I'm in the last year of medical school I will apply for ecfmg in 2023 Should I take one of the usmle steps before 2024 to not be affected by the ecfmg 2024 decision or applying and having an account before 2024 is enough !

[@USMDPedia]

Hi there. Thanks for the question! As long as you apply for certification and get certified, you will not be subject to the 2024 rule. The key is to begin certification as soon as possible. Hope this helps!

[@karimali9491]

@@USMDPedia sorry but another question 😅 What does it mean being certified.. does it mean completing all the usmle exams or just completing the id and form 186 and then I can have the usmle exams after 2024

[@USMDPedia]

@@karimali9491 Hi there. Certification means that you can apply for residency positions. Once you have applied for certification, you can start taking the USMLE exams. You can complete Form 186 and submit, and then apply for exams.

[@karimali9491]

@@USMDPedia thank u so much for replying me So I don't have to complete the certification .. just applying and being registrated before 2024 is enough And I can take exams anytime even after 2024 as long as I got registration Is that correct

[@USMDPedia]

@@karimali9491 Yes, as long as you applied and got an ECMFG number before 2024, you can take the exams. I think it would be good to take the USMLE exams if you can.

[@keepmoving5128]

Sir I'm a indian student currently doing my medicine in Russia can i apply for ECFMG certificate????

[@USMDPedia]

Hi there. If your school is approved on WDOMS or has a Pathway for your school, you can apply for a certificate.

[@sherryberry7259]

Sir , can i appear for USMLE after graduating from Tashkent medical academy (uzbekistan) after 2024 ? Is it recognised by ECMFG after 2024

[@USMDPedia]

Hi there. Right now, only Tashkent State Dental is approved by the IAAR, which is recognized by the WFME. The ECFMG accepts all WFME institutions/accreditations. Are you in medical school now? Tashkent Medical Academy is approved for ECFMG now, so if you are in medical school now, you can apply for certification with Form 186.

[@sherryberry7259]

@@USMDPedia Yes i am in medical school now but its just 2nd year right now so can I apply for certification now ?

[@USMDPedia]

@@sherryberry7259 Hi there. If you are second year, yes you can apply. To take the USMLE series you need to be in year 2 or higher, so it is a good time for you! Hope this helps.

[@USMDPedia]

@@sherryberry7259 Hi there. If you are in your 2nd year of medical school, you can apply. You can take your exams next year. The key is applying now, before 2024.

[@sherryberry7259]

Hello sir. Is uzbekistan country recognised by ECFMG ?

[@USMDPedia]

Hi there. Uzbekistan is listed on the IAAR which is a WFME partner. However, on the IAAR website, only one school - Tashkent State Dental Institute - is listed as an institution. You might want to check your school's status. Here is the IAAR link. iaar.agency/en

[@sherryberry7259]

@@USMDPedia I’m not able to understand how check status of my school in the link you provided. Can you guide me ?

[@USMDPedia]

@@sherryberry7259 Hi there. The link is here. iaar.agency/postmonitorings/1/en It only lists one agency. You can also look at WDOMS. search.wdoms.org You can look up your school and in the sponsor tab, see if it is ECFMG eligible.

[@lizkendra1349]

Hello, great video. I would like to take the Usmle steps as of this year but my country is on the list of those currently applying/waiting accreditation. am I eligible to register and take Usmle? Your response will be much appreciated.🥲🙏🏽

[@limo7041]

damn all over for indians and pakistanis then?

[@USMDPedia]

For Pakistan, there are 97 medical schools eligible for Pathway 2. Please check here: www.ecfmg.org/certification-requirements-2023-match/pathway-schools.php

[@shayanshah2213]

@@USMDPedia this is for 2023 tho not 2024

[@USMDPedia]

@@shayanshah2213 The changes were originally supposed to be for the 2023 Match year. Because of the pandemic, it was extended to 2024.