Florida
FLConrad State 30 J-1 waiver program overview, slot data, processing times, and application guidance for Florida.
Application Window
Opens October 1 at 8:00 AM. Closes ~October 12 (~2-week window only). Prioritized by HPSA score, rural/primary care preference.
Timeline Overview
Specialty Priorities
Priority Areas
Requirements
Must practice in a HPSA or MUA for 3 years. Florida DOH administers the Conrad 30 program. Florida is highly competitive due to desirable lifestyle and large IMG population. HPSA score of 14+ strongly recommended. MAJOR ADVANTAGE: The entire state of Florida is covered by SCRC (Southeast Crescent Regional Commission) — every single county qualifies for SCRC waivers with UNLIMITED slots. This means even when Conrad 30 slots fill, SCRC provides an alternative ($3,000 fee applies).
Application Tips
Florida is very competitive for Conrad 30 — second only to California and New York in demand. No state income tax is a major draw. BUT here's the key insight most people miss: ALL of Florida is covered by SCRC waivers (launched 2022), which have unlimited slots. This means Florida effectively has more waiver capacity than almost any other state. The $3,000 SCRC fee is worth it when Conrad fills. Best areas: rural panhandle (Gadsden, Jackson, Bay), central agricultural areas (Polk, Highlands, Hardee), and northern tier (Marion, Putnam, Baker). South Florida (Miami-Dade, Broward) is competitive even for SCRC. Geriatrics is growing need due to aging population. Large IMG community statewide.