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Application FAQ

How should one apply to your program?
Only electronic applications via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) are accepted. U.S. medical students should contact their dean's office for access to the ERAS system. Foreign medical graduates must apply for residency positions through ERAS by contacting the ECFMG.

What are the minimum requirements for admission into your program? 
Minimum requirements for admission include: medical school transcript, Dean's letter, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, USMLE Step 1 score report, USMLE Step 2 score report, current photo, and ECFMG certificate (if applicable).  

Once selected, UMMC residents must obtain a Mississippi medical license. The Mississippi State Board of Medical Licensure requires that all applicants pass United States Medical Licensure Examination Steps 1 and 2 (Clinical Knowledge) before a restricted temporary (training) license will be issued. Graduates of non-US medical schools must pass USMLE Steps 1, and 2CK to be eligible for a Limited Institutional License. Physicians must pass USMLE Steps 1, 2, and 3 to be eligible for a permanent Mississippi medical license. Applicants who are not United States citizens must have a J-1 Visa or Permanent Resident Card to be employed as a resident or fellow at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. International medical graduates must have a current, valid ECFMG certificate to begin residency or fellowship training.

Does your program accept the COMLEX in lieu of USMLE for graduates of osteopathic medical schools?
Yes.

Does your program consider a minimum cutoff score for USMLE exams?
Passing scores for USMLE are required. There are no minimal passing score requirements; USMLE scores are considered in the context of the complete application.

How many spots does your program offer?
We have 5 Medicine/Pediatrics positions.

How are residents selected? 
Selection of residents in the Medicine/Pediatrics Residency at UMMC is based on academic records, recommendation letters, and interviews. Selection is made without regard to race, religion, gender, national origin, marital or veteran status, age, or disability.

Does your program impose a limit on the graduate year of applicants?
Yes. We ask that applicants have graduated no more than 5 years from time of application.

What type(s) of Visas does your program sponsor?
We only sponsor the J-1 Visa. Unfortunately, we do not substitute or accept any others at this time.

Do you accept International Medical Graduates (IMGs)? If so, what percentage of your program is comprised of IMGs?
The UMMC program is proud to accept graduates of any program if they meet the minimum requirements set forth by our program. The percentage varies from year to year, usually less than 3%.

Is U.S. clinical experience required for IMGs?
No, U.S. clinical experience is not required for admission into our program, but may be taken into consideration when your application is reviewed.