Michigan
MIConrad State 30 J-1 waiver program overview, slot data, processing times, and application guidance for Michigan.
Application Window
Opens September 1, closes November 1 at 5:00 PM. Strict 2-month window. Applications must be RECEIVED (not postmarked) by deadline. Opens before federal fiscal year.
Timeline Overview
Specialty Priorities
Priority Areas
Requirements
Must practice in a HPSA or MUA for 3 years. Michigan DHHS sponsors Conrad 30 applications. HPSA score of 7+ typically sufficient. Michigan has one of the most IMG-friendly medical licensing processes in the nation. Full Michigan medical license required. Michigan also participates in HHS Clinical Care Waivers (unlimited slots, HPSA score 7+ required) for eligible sites.
Application Tips
Michigan fills all 30 Conrad slots every single year — one of only 3 states (with Kentucky and New York) that has never had unused slots in 20+ years of data. Despite high competition, Michigan remains a top-5 state for IMG physicians. Detroit has massive physician shortages — Beaumont, Henry Ford, DMC/Tenet systems are major waiver employers. Flint and Saginaw have critical needs. Upper Peninsula is severely underserved with high HPSA scores. Also consider HHS Clinical Care Waiver (unlimited slots) or ARC waiver for eligible counties as alternatives when Conrad slots fill. Michigan has a strong H-1B cap-exempt hospital base (University of Michigan, Beaumont, Henry Ford, Spectrum Health). State income tax is flat 4.25%.