This information refers to interpretation of content for 2020 Data. Please see Important Note about Point of Diminishing Returns and Entrance Rate Data after 2020.
The AAMC is committed to helping all applicants develop a smart residency application strategy. To that end, we have provided as much data as possible to support international medical graduates (IMGs) and students as you research and apply to ACGME-accredited residency programs. For IMG applicants, we are able to provide entrance rates, by Step 1 score tercile, for most of the specialties included in the study. We are not, however, able to reliably estimate the point of diminishing returns for IMG applicants due to relatively small sample sizes or program entrance rates.
The AAMC is pleased to offer these data in cooperation with the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (ECFMG|FAIMER). ECFMG|FAIMER encourages all IMGs to effectively research programs, compare your qualifications, and pinpoint your preferences when considering graduate training options and when building a residency application strategy. This is just one resource of many to help you make an informed decision.
You may have noticed that program entrance rates for IMG applicants are generally lower than those for U.S.-MD applicants. One reason for these differences may have to do with average Step 1 exam scores for IMG applicants, which tend to be lower than those for U.S.-MD applicants.
Despite any differences, we encourage applicants to use these findings as a starting point for considering the number of programs you will ultimately apply to. There is no magic number that applies to all applicants, so consider this information in the context of your overall residency candidacy and application.
IMGs seeking more information about applying to residency should contact: eras-support@ecfmg.org or 215-966-3520.