Step 2 CS and IMGs

[bigtymer]

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Hey, I was just wondering do final year IMGs need to have Step 2 CS completed before sending off applications to internal medicine programs or is it preferred/needed to have the score reported before applying to programs?

 

[Winged Scapula]

Some programs will not review your application if you aren't ECFMG certified, which requires Step 2 CS. There is a thread around here in which a user applying for IM stated that when he applied without his certificate he got no interview invitations and failed to match. The following year he was more successful.

So, to answer your question: it depends on the program, you should investigate on a case by case basis if the programs you are interested in require Step 2 CS or ECFMG certification at the time of application. I would venture that more programs care about Step 2 CS than CK.

 

[bigtymer]

Hey, thanks for the reply!

From my research, most of the programs I am interested in require ECFMG certification. However, I will be in my final year when I am applying to the match later on in Oct/Nov, and therefore will not be eligible for ECFMG certfication until the end of the academic year.

I understand STEP 1/2CK/CS is needed for ECFMG certification. If I complete these exams and have my score reported prior to sending off my applications, will this fulfill the program requirements of ECFMG certification?

I have sent off my questions to many programs and am awaiting a response but if anyone have any experience with this let me know. Thanks.

 

[gutonc]

I understand STEP 1/2CK/CS is needed for ECFMG certification. If I complete these exams and have my score reported prior to sending off my applications, will this fulfill the program requirements of ECFMG certification?

In general, yes. Programs know you won't have your ECFMG certificate until you get your diploma. If you have everything BUT your diploma in hand, most places will consider that "ECFMG certified" for the purposes of residency applications.