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Massachusetts

MA

Conrad State 30 J-1 waiver program overview, slot data, processing times, and application guidance for Massachusetts.

Official source · Verified against State DOH / 3RNET · Last verified: 2026-03-28
30
Conrad 30 Slots
5
Flex Slots
35
Total Available
90-120 days — MA DPH is thorough
Processing Time

Application Window

Opens October 1, closes January 15. Second round if all 30 not filled. Applications via REDCap system.

Timeline Overview

Estimated Total Timeline8-15 months (competitive academic state)
State Processing Time90-120 days — MA DPH is thorough
Federal Fiscal Year StartOctober 1

Specialty Priorities

Family MedicineInternal MedicinePsychiatryPediatrics

Priority Areas

Primary CareCommunity Health CentersBehavioral Health

Requirements

Must serve in a HPSA or MUA for 3 years. MA DPH sponsors applications. Massachusetts fills all 30 Conrad slots annually (FY 2024). Highly competitive due to concentration of medical institutions and desirable quality of life. HPSA score of 14+ recommended. Full unrestricted MA medical license required.

Application Tips

Massachusetts fills all 30 slots every year — very competitive. FQHCs in Springfield, Worcester, Brockton, Fall River, New Bedford, and Lowell have the best approval rates. Boston proper is extremely competitive — South Boston and Dorchester FQHCs are possible but limited. Western Massachusetts (Berkshires, Pioneer Valley) has growing rural need. MA has the strongest H-1B cap-exempt employer base in the country (Mass General, Brigham, Beth Israel, BMC, UMass). High cost of living and state income tax (5% flat + 4% surtax on income over $1M). The academic medical community is unparalleled for networking and career development.

Waiver Jobs in Massachusetts

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Quick Facts

3-year service commitment required
Must serve in HPSA or MUA designated area
Employer must sponsor the waiver application
Apply early in federal fiscal year (starts October 1)

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