IMG Counselor

Your AI-powered guide for International Medical Graduate applications

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About IMG Counselor

Welcome to IMG Counselor, your trusted companion in navigating the complex journey of International Medical Graduate (IMG) applications. Founded with a vision to empower aspiring medical professionals, we are led by esteemed medical educator and mentor, Dr. Ranjodh Gill.

Founder

Dr. Ranjodh Gill Ranjodh Gill, MD, FACE, FACP
Professor Emeritus in Medicine and Surgery
Virginia Commonwealth School of Medicine
Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology
1201 Broad Rock Boulevard
Richmond, Virginia 23249
Email: rsgill@vcu.edu, rane.s.gill@gmail.com
Phone: 1-804-539-7420
LinkedIn: View Profile

Dr. Gill brings decades of experience in medical education and clinical practice, with a passion for guiding International Medical Graduates toward successful residency matches. His expertise in endocrinology and commitment to mentorship ensure that IMG Counselor provides authoritative and compassionate guidance.

Our Mission

We aim to simplify the residency application process for IMGs, helping you secure your desired medical residency positions while minimizing application costs. Our AI-powered platform delivers personalized guidance, enabling informed decisions to maximize your chances of success.

What We Offer

• Smart Application Strategy: Personalized recommendations on residency programs tailored to your unique profile.

• Cost Optimization: Save on application fees by targeting programs with the highest match potential.

• Real-time Guidance: 24/7 AI-powered assistant to answer your IMG-related questions.

• Success Analytics: Data-driven insights to refine and strengthen your application strategy.

Our Edge

Navigating the residency application process can be daunting and costly. IMG Counselor combines cutting-edge AI technology with expert medical knowledge to provide targeted advice. Our approach has helped thousands of IMGs save on application fees and successfully match into their preferred residency programs.

Join our community and let us guide you toward a successful medical career in the United States.

Our Roadmap

At IMG Counselor, we are committed to evolving our platform to better serve International Medical Graduates (IMGs) on their journey to a successful medical career in the United States. Below is our planned roadmap, sequenced by priority levels, outlining key features we aim to introduce. We value your input—submit suggestions to shape our future!

Submit Your Suggestions

Have an idea or feature request? Share it with us! Include your name and email for follow-up (e.g., "Ranjeet@example.com: Please add export to PDF feature").

Planned Features by Priority

Journey to Medical Career

Priority: Essential - Guide for initial steps and certifications.

How this helps IMGs: Step-by-step guide for credential evaluation, USMLE exams, and first actions to start your US medical journey. Avoid common mistakes and delays.
  • Understand ECFMG certification requirements
  • Learn about USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK
  • Get tips for document preparation and verification

Application Cycle

Priority: High - Tools for ERAS timelines and strategies.

How this helps IMGs: Explains the ERAS application process, timelines, and strategies. Plan your application, track deadlines, and optimize your chances of matching.
  • Personalized ERAS timeline and reminders
  • Checklist for required documents
  • Tips for program selection and application strategy

Match

Priority: High - Support for NRMP Match and mock interviews.

How this helps IMGs: Prepares you for the NRMP Match and interviews. Guidance on interview prep, ranking strategies, and what to expect during the Match process.
  • Mock interview resources
  • Ranking strategy tips
  • Understanding the Match timeline

Scramble or SOAP

Priority: Medium - Assistance for post-Match positions.

How this helps IMGs: Explains the post-Match process for unfilled positions, including SOAP steps, documentation, and strategies to maximize your chances of securing a residency spot after the main Match.
  • Step-by-step SOAP process
  • Tips for quick document preparation
  • Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

Residency

Priority: Medium - Resources and mentorship during residency.

How this helps IMGs: Resources and mentorship for success during residency, including adapting to the US system, finding mentors, and managing work-life balance.
  • Mentorship programs
  • Residency survival tips
  • Resource links for residents

Fellowship

Priority: Medium - Guidance for subspecialty applications.

How this helps IMGs: Guidance for subspecialty applications, including requirements, timelines, and tips for a successful fellowship match.
  • Fellowship application checklist
  • Timeline planning
  • Advice from successful fellows

Spousal and Family Help

Priority: Future - Support for visa and relocation.

How this helps IMGs: Support for visa, relocation, and family adjustment, making the transition to the US smoother for IMGs and their loved ones.
  • Visa options for families
  • Relocation checklists
  • Support groups and resources

Recruiters and Visa

Priority: Future - Advice on visa and recruiter connections.

How this helps IMGs: Connects you with recruiters and provides up-to-date information on visa options for job placement and career advancement.
  • List of reputable recruiters
  • Visa types and requirements
  • Tips for job searching as an IMG

Networking

Priority: Future - Platform to connect with peers.

How this helps IMGs: Helps you build a professional network, connect with peers, and access opportunities through community support.
  • Online networking platforms
  • Events and conferences
  • Peer support groups

Creating Database and Social Networking

Priority: Future - Resource database and networking feature.

How this helps IMGs: Centralizes resources and enables social networking for career advancement and information sharing.
  • Resource database access
  • Social networking features
  • Collaboration tools

Interactive Cafe

Priority: Future - Virtual space for discussions.

How this helps IMGs: Provides a virtual space for open discussion, Q&A, and peer support in a relaxed environment.
  • Live chat rooms
  • Discussion boards
  • Community events

Vote for Your Priorities

Help us prioritize by reviewing the features we’d like to see implemented soonest.

IMG Counselor FAQ

Comprehensive guide for International Medical Graduates

ECFMG Certification & Basic Eligibility

What is ECFMG Certification and why is it essential for IMGs? ▼
ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates) Certification is mandatory for all International Medical Graduates to be eligible for US residency programs. It verifies your medical education credentials, ensures you meet US standards, and serves as a prerequisite for the NRMP Match. Without ECFMG certification, you cannot participate in the residency match process.
What are the USMLE exams I need to pass for ECFMG Certification? ▼
You must pass USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK (Clinical Knowledge) for ECFMG certification. Step 1 tests basic medical sciences, while Step 2 CK evaluates clinical knowledge and patient care skills. Step 3 is not required for certification but may be needed for certain visa types or programs.
How long does the ECFMG certification process typically take? ▼
The ECFMG certification process typically takes 4-8 weeks after all requirements are met. This includes credential verification, exam score reporting, and final certificate issuance. However, delays can occur due to document verification issues or high application volumes.

USMLE Exams

What is a competitive USMLE score for IMGs? ▼
For IMGs, competitive scores vary by specialty: Step 1: 240+ (highly competitive), 220-240 (competitive), 200-220 (acceptable for some programs). Step 2 CK: 250+ (excellent), 240-250 (very good), 230-240 (good). Remember, Step 1 is now Pass/Fail, making Step 2 CK scores more critical.
How many attempts do I have for each USMLE Step? ▼
You have 6 attempts for each USMLE Step within a 7-year period. Multiple attempts can impact your application negatively, so thorough preparation is crucial. Programs often view first-attempt passes more favorably than multiple attempts.

US Clinical Experience (USCE)

What is US Clinical Experience and why is it important? ▼
USCE refers to clinical rotations, observerships, or research experiences in US healthcare settings. It's crucial for IMGs as it demonstrates familiarity with the US healthcare system, provides networking opportunities, and helps secure strong letters of recommendation from US physicians.
Which types of USCE are most valued? ▼
Hands-on clinical rotations (externships/sub-internships) are most valued, followed by observerships with meaningful patient interaction. Research experiences in US institutions are also valuable, especially if they lead to publications. Avoid purely observational experiences with minimal interaction.

Application Process (ERAS)

What documents are required for ERAS application? ▼
Required documents include: Common Application Form, Personal Statement, Letters of Recommendation (3-4), MSPE/Dean's Letter, Medical School Transcript, USMLE Transcript, ECFMG Status Report, Professional Photo, and CV. Some programs may require additional specialty-specific documents.
How many programs should an IMG typically apply to? ▼
IMGs typically apply to 80-150 programs depending on their competitiveness and specialty choice. Highly competitive specialties may require 150+ applications, while primary care specialties might need 80-120. Quality over quantity is important - research programs thoroughly.

Interview Process & Match

How should I prepare for residency interviews as an IMG? ▼
Prepare by researching each program thoroughly, practicing common questions (Why this specialty? Why our program? Tell me about yourself), preparing stories that highlight your strengths, understanding current healthcare issues, and being ready to address any gaps or weaknesses in your application professionally.
What happens if I don't match in the main match? ▼
You can participate in SOAP (Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program) immediately after Match Day. If you are not successful in SOAP, you only get one chance in that cycle. After that, you will need to explore other options such as taking a research year, gaining more U.S. clinical experience (USCE), considering preliminary or transitional year programs, or applying again in the next Match cycle.

Visas for Residency

What are the common visa types for IMG residency? ▼
The two main visa types are J-1 and H-1B. J-1 is more common, easier to obtain, but requires returning to home country for 2 years after training (unless waived). H-1B allows dual intent (path to green card) but is harder to obtain and requires Step 3 passage before residency.

Contact Us

Have questions, suggestions, or need support? We'd love to hear from you!

Other Ways to Reach Us

Contact Person: Ranjodh Gill, MD, FACE, FACP

Email: rsgill@vcu.edu, rane.s.gill@gmail.com

Phone: 1-804-539-7420

Address: Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Virginia Commonwealth School of Medicine, 1201 Broad Rock Boulevard, Richmond, Virginia 23249

LinkedIn: View Profile

Response Time: We typically respond within 24 hours

Business Hours: Monday - Friday, 9 AM - 6 PM EST