Understanding the Legal Definition of a Foreign Medical Graduate

Definition & Meaning

A foreign medical graduate is a physician who has completed their medical education at a school located outside the country where they plan to practice medicine. These graduates are not from medical schools that are accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) or the American Osteopathic Association (AOA). Previously, this term was referred to as an international medical graduate.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A physician from India graduates from a medical school that is not recognized by the LCME. They wish to practice in California and must complete the necessary examinations and apply for a medical license.

Example 2: A graduate from a medical school in the Caribbean seeks to enter a residency program in the United States. They must provide proof of their education and pass the required exams to qualify. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Licensure Requirements
California Requires passing the USMLE and completion of a residency program.
New York Accepts foreign medical graduates but requires additional exams.
Texas Requires verification of education and passing scores on exams.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition
International Medical Graduate A broader term that includes graduates from non-US medical schools, similar to foreign medical graduates.
US Medical Graduate A physician who has graduated from a medical school accredited in the United States.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are a foreign medical graduate looking to practice in the United States, follow these steps:

  • Verify your medical education credentials.
  • Pass the required examinations (e.g., USMLE or COMLEX).
  • Apply for residency programs and medical licensure in your desired state.

Consider using US Legal Forms for templates that can assist you in these processes. If your situation is complex, seeking professional legal assistance may be beneficial.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Typical Fees Varies by state; includes exam fees and application costs.
Jurisdiction State medical boards regulate licensure.
Possible Penalties Practicing without a license can lead to legal action.

Key takeaways