u/Additional_Special79

Hi everyone,

I’m a medical student from RCSI Bahrain and I’ll be in Year 4 when applying for electives in the US (surgery specialty).

I’m trying to understand what is realistically possible and what I need to prepare in advance.

I have a few questions:

1. What US hospitals or universities are realistic for international students (especially for surgery electives)?
2. Is USMLE Step 1 required or just preferred for most programs?
3. How early should I apply (6 months / 1 year in advance)?
4. Are there any hospitals that are more IMG-friendly and lower cost?
5. What are the biggest reasons international students get rejected?

I’m mainly looking for realistic advice from people who have applied or done electives in the US as international students. Any guidance would be really appreciated.

Hi everyone,

I’m a medical student from RCSI Bahrain and I’ll be in Year 4 when applying for electives in the US (surgery specialty).

I’m trying to understand what is realistically possible and what I need to prepare in advance.

I have a few questions:

1. What US hospitals or universities are realistic for international students (especially for surgery electives)?
2. Is USMLE Step 1 required or just preferred for most programs?
3. How early should I apply (6 months / 1 year in advance)?
4. Are there any hospitals that are more IMG-friendly and lower cost?
5. What are the biggest reasons international students get rejected?

I’m mainly looking for realistic advice from people who have applied or done electives in the US as international students. Any guidance would be really appreciated.