ECFMG certification and time limits for IMG

[Greggles45]

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Hi all,

I am graduating shortly outside the US and will have completed Step 1, Step 2 CS (results soon) and will complete Step 2 CK in the next few months, not worried about failing.

Since I'm graduating soon I'll also probably sit Step 3.

My question is, assuming I pass Step 1, 2CK and 2CS, are there any time limits or expirations I need to worry about? I won't have worked in the US and I don't intend to for several years (after doing some training in my home country). A lot of older colleagues are telling me I need to do a year to "cement in" my ECFMG certification and other odd things.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Winged Scapula]

Hi all,

I am graduating shortly outside the US and will have completed Step 1, Step 2 CS (results soon) and will complete Step 2 CK in the next few months, not worried about failing.

Since I'm graduating soon I'll also probably sit Step 3.

My question is, assuming I pass Step 1, 2CK and 2CS, are there any time limits or expirations I need to worry about? I won't have worked in the US and I don't intend to for several years (after doing some training in my home country). A lot of older colleagues are telling me I need to do a year to "cement in" my ECFMG certification and other odd things.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

ECFMG certificates used to expire if not permanently validated for TOEFL and CSA scores taken before a certain date (about 12 years ago). Your advisors are giving you outdated information. ECFMG.org discusses this clearly.

Otherwise there is typically a 7 year time limit for taking all 3 USMLE steps. You should also consider that many US residency programs have time limits on number of years since graduation before start of training.