Navigating US Medical Licensing Post-Ukrainian Graduation: A Comprehensive Guide
If you are a medical graduate from Ukraine and are considering practicing medicine in the United States, the journey can seem daunting. However, you do not necessarily have to start from square one. Here, we will guide you through the critical steps and requirements to become a licensed physician in the US.
Check Your Medical School's Accreditation
First and foremost, ensure that your medical school is recognized by the World Directory of Medical Schools. This directory provides a list of recognized medical schools that can be accessed here. If your school is not on the list, your education may not be considered valid for licensing in the US, which would necessitate additional studies and training.
Apply for ECFMG Certification
The next step is to sign up for certification with the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). The ECFMG website can be accessed at They will evaluate your credentials and your English proficiency. It's important to note that as of 2023, your medical school must be accredited. There are application fees, and if your transcript requires translation, there will be additional costs for that service.
Take the USMLE Step 1 Examination
With your ECFMG certification, it's time to take the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1. This is a comprehensive test that assesses your knowledge of basic medical sciences. The examination is offered worldwide, and fees vary. International candidates also need to pay an additional international fee. Scoring matters, and while a passing score is 194, the average US graduate scores a 229. Once you pass the examination, you cannot retake it for 7 years.
Prepare for the USMLE Step 2 CK
The next step is to take the USMLE Step 2 CK, which is similar to the Step 1 but focuses on the clinical knowledge required for patient care. Like the Step 1, this is a multiple-choice examination offered worldwide, and scores are crucial for your medical application.
USMLE Clinical Skills Examination
After passing the Step 2 CK, you will need to take the USMLE Step 3, which evaluates your clinical skills. This examination is only administered in the United States and is a pass/fail exam. You will need to secure a visa, pay additional fees, and arrange for travel, lodging, and accommodation. This exam is only held in select cities in the US.
Participate in the National Residency Match Program
The final step is to participate in the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP). Visit the for more details. Only US and Canadian residency programs qualify in the US. Prior training in other countries, such as Ukraine, is not considered valid. You can find more information in the International Medical Graduates document, which can be accessed on the NRMP website.
Challenges and Considerations
It's crucial to understand that while you don't have to go through medical school again, the path to residency is riddled with challenges. Limited slots, intense competition, and the possibility of not being matched highlight the difficulties many international graduates face. Additionally, the process can take years, and some never make it to residency.
In conclusion, becoming a licensed physician in the US after graduation from medical school in Ukraine is possible but requires a detailed, rigorous process. By following these steps and staying informed, you can increase your chances of a successful career in medicine in the United States.