International opportunities allow medical students to work with different patient populations, develop cross-cultural understanding, and learn about health systems and approaches to medical care in other nations. The Visiting Student Learning Opportunities™ (VSLO®) program saves you time searching for, and applying to, electives, and gives you a better chance of being accepted.
Why pursue an elective abroad?
Students may pursue a global opportunity to:
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Work with different patient populations.
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Learn about global health systems.
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Increase intercultural understanding.
Medical or public health students enrolled at VSLO program-participating Home institutions in the Global Network are able to search and apply for opportunities in the VSLO program.
What are the requirements?
Institution requirements vary for visiting students. A complete list of an institution’s requirements can be reviewed in the elective details in the application service.
Once a student completes requirements and submits an application, the student’s Home institution receives the application for verification. Any requirements that are the responsibility of the Home institution are fulfilled at that time. Then, the Home institution releases the application, along with all requirements, to the Host institution.
Sample requirements that are the responsibility of the student include, but are not limited to:
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CV.
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Immunization Form.
Sample requirements to be completed by the student’s Home institution include, but are not limited to:
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Transcripts.
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Letters of Recommendation.
Other types of requirements that may be required after a student submits their application include, but are not limited to:
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Visa documents.
- Copy of a passport.
Host institutions may also request that a requirement be resubmitted.
Use the VSLO Student Essentials guide to help you access the application service, complete your profile, search for and save electives, and begin the application process.
Resources for Global Rotations
Pre-Departure Factors to Consider
Visa requirements: Before you leave, check the conditions in your destination country and know its visa requirements.
Language assessments: Some institutions may require that you complete a language exam to accurately determine your knowledge and proficiency. Be sure to check with each Host institution to determine their specific language assessment requirements.
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International English Language Testing System
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The IELTS tests four skills including listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
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Test of English as a Foreign Language
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The TOEFL measures the ability of international students to use and understand English at the university level.
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Health and Safety: To prevent health and safety-related issues, it's important that you stay informed and take the proper precautions before you leave your home country and while you are abroad.
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Travelers' Health - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Resources and Training
Learn how to use the VSLO application service, access webinar recordings, and view AAMC directories of internships and summer programs, as well as clinical, public health, and research opportunities on the VSLO Resources and Training webpage.
FAQ
For more detailed information, check out frequently asked questions about the VSLO program.