J1 visa for prelim only

[RN1]

Let's say that I match into a prelim but not a categorical and I do it on a J1. If I don't get into a categorical in the following year, then what happens?
Do I have to go back to my country for 2 years or can I try matching again the following year and instead return for 2 years once I complete a residency?
If I switch from J1 clinical-->J1 research-->J1 clinical - would that work? (I do research while trying to match after doing PGY1)

 

[Sarcoidosis]

Hi, Don't play the J1 Visa game if you don't have a Categorical Position.

Having a J1 Visa is bad off.

J1 Visa + Prelim = Disaster

Now to answer your question.

If you don't get a categorical the following year than you go back to your country within 30 days. Then reapply for Categorical only on J1 Visa. You don't necessarily have to return back for 2 years however you will have to eventually fulfill the 2 year requirement.

J1 clinical to J1 research is a crapsh@t. It depends on the whims of ECFMG, I asked them this specifically and they said policies change all the time...

Better option is to do research on a research visa and apply for Categorical positions.

Good Luck!