Countries > United States
North America · Medicine
The United States runs the largest postgraduate medical training system in the world. For international medical graduates, the pathway is highly structured — everything is verified, tested, and scored before you can apply anywhere. Every IMG chasing a U.S. residency spot walks the same road: prove you know the medicine, prove you can apply it, and prove you can communicate it. After residency, board certification through the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) marks you as an independent specialist. Holding U.S. board certification is generally recognized as a Tier 1 qualification by GCC regulatory authorities, though outcomes depend on individual country requirements, years of experience, and credential verification.
USMLE
Steps 1 · 2 CK · 3
Match
NRMP Residency
ABMS
Board Certification
Tier 1
GCC Recognition
Select your pathway below.
General Licensing
The full route from ECFMG verification through USMLE Steps 1, 2 CK, OET Medicine, the Match, and Step 3.
Go to USMLE Pathway →Specialty Board
Post-residency board certification through the American Board of Internal Medicine.
Go to ABIM →Specialty Board
Two-part certification: Qualifying Exam (written) and Certifying Exam (oral).
Go to ABS →Specialty Board
Post-residency board certification through the American Board of Pediatrics.
Go to ABP →Specialty Board
Two-part certification: Qualifying Exam (written) and Certifying Exam (oral case log).
Go to ABOG →Nursing
NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN pathways with CGFNS credential evaluation and state licensure.
Go to Nurses →