Residency Match & Visa Requirements Flashcards
7 cards from real ECFMG practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Residency Match & Visa Requirements flashcards as text
An IMG whose ECFMG certificate was issued but then revoked due to irregular behavior on the USMLE would be reported to residency programs via which mechanism?
Answer: ECFMG's Irregular Behavior disclosure to training institutions
ECFMG notifies training institutions and may report irregular behavior findings to relevant licensing and accrediting bodies, which can result in certificate revocation.
Which ACGME requirement must a residency program meet in order to sponsor an IMG for a J-1 visa through ECFMG?
Answer: The program must be provisionally or fully ACGME-accredited
Only ACGME-accredited programs (provisional or full accreditation) are eligible to train J-1-sponsored IMG physicians through ECFMG.
When an IMG on a J-1 visa transfers from one residency program to another, what must ECFMG do?
Answer: Issue a new DS-2019 reflecting the new program and employer
A program transfer requires ECFMG to issue a new DS-2019 for the receiving program, as the training location and sponsoring institution have changed.
What is the primary purpose of the NRMP's Rank Order List (ROL) algorithm?
Answer: To produce a stable matching that is optimal for applicants
The NRMP algorithm produces a stable matching that is applicant-optimal, meaning no applicant could be placed in a more preferred program that also prefers them.
An IMG discovers after Match Day that their ECFMG certification lapses before the residency start date. What is the likely consequence?
Answer: The Match placement is voided and the IMG cannot start residency
Valid ECFMG certification is required for an IMG to begin J-1-sponsored GME training; a lapsed certificate means the program cannot lawfully employ the IMG as a resident.
Under current ECFMG policies, which exam replaced USMLE Step 2 CS as a clinical skills assessment requirement after CS was discontinued in 2021?
Answer: No direct replacement; pathway 1 and pathway 6 alternatives were established
After Step 2 CS was discontinued, ECFMG introduced multiple certification pathways (e.g., Pathway 1 via ACGME-accredited year, Pathway 6 via medical school attestation) rather than a single replacement exam.
Which form does an IMG complete to formally register with ECFMG and initiate the certification process?
Answer: Form 186 (ECFMG Application for ECFMG Certification)
ECFMG Form 186 is the application for ECFMG certification that IMGs must submit to begin the credentialing process.