ECFMG certification question

[slowlybutshelly]

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Technically I started medical school as an IMG. I have 7 years from the time I pass Step 1 to pass CS and Step2ck. I passed Step1 and CS. I have yet to pass Step2ck and my 7 yr deadline is coming up May 11th.

My question is:

There is a chance I can transfer to a US school and get permission to take the exam again.

If I transfer to a US school, does the 7 yr certification deadline still exist?

Or is it possible a new school would give me a new deadline since I am under there 'flag'?

 

[adagio]

I dont think anyone can answer such a technical question, you need to call ECFMG buddy.

 

[slowlybutshelly]

I am an ECFMG student; technically I have 7 years to complete Step1, CS, Step2ck to get certified to apply to a residency. Someone suggested this 7 year rule applied to Step3 as well. My 7 year time limit is approaching May 11, 2011. I might get lucky to take Step2ck again. I might not have time to take both Step2ck and Step3.

So I need clarification; does the 7 year rule apply to Step3 also?

 

[slowlybutshelly]

I called ECFMG and asked for clarification. ECFMG 7 year rule does not apply to Step3.
What I learned today is what everyone should know, so I am posting it here. IF a person does not pass all three exams by 7years, then they must repeat the oldest exam and the 7yr rule starts all over from the next test that was passed. For example, if I do not pass my Step2ck exam by my May11, 2011 deadline then I must go back and take Step1 over again.

That will reset my 7 year eligibility period to start with the date I passed CS.

Just FYI.

 

[slowlybutshelly]

Here is what I learned by calling ECFMG. If a person does not pass Step2ck by the 7 year deadline, they can repeat Step1. The 7 yr deadline is then reset to start on the completion of the CS pass date.

 

[peppy]

Glad to hear you were able to get an answer from the source. I don't think anyone on here knew this, and this could be helpful for others in the future. Even though retaking step 1 would definitely not be ideal, hopefully it is somewhat reassuring to know that it's an option if you feel you want to do it. Still hope things work out for you by May though!

 

[Depakote]

consolidating similar threads

 

[DrZuza]

I'd really make sure about the deadlines for passing step 3, because ECFMG is one thing and State Medical Boards another... Look here at this website:
http://www.fsmb.org/usmle_requirementschart.html
Every state has different requirements with regard to the exams... It just seems a little tricky here, dealing with two different things... ECFMG has no business with Step 3, so I'd not rely on their answers about it. Call FSMB (Federation of State Medical Boards) just to make sure!

 

[slowlybutshelly]

Correct me if I am wrong, but the FSMB is just a list of states and their licensing requirements. I have that list. I have contacted the state I am in for help resolving my particular situation. I have not come across a FSMB phone number per se. So if anyone does, can you please let me know.

 

[DrZuza]

Your last reply - it's a joke, right? In the right upper hand corner of the website I gave you before there is a link to "contact us"............ with all kinds of phone numbers for FSMB in their main office in TX............... You seem under a lot of stress and it's understandable, but you need to get yourself straight... Make a one page list of all the things you need to do and all the deadlines you need to meet... No other way around it but to stay organized