Cleveland Clinic
Cleveland, Ohio · Observership
Always confirm details on the official institution page before applying. Requirements, fees, and deadlines can change.
About this program
Overview The Observership program is an informal shadowing experience that enables participants to watch procedures and surgeries; attend patient rounds and teaching conferences; and have full access to Cleveland Clinic's medical library system. Federal regulations prevent observers from having patient care responsibilities or involvement in any form of volunteer research.
Who is eligible? The International Physician Observership Program is open to: Fully trained international physicians currently practicing abroad. International residents and fellows enrolled in a residency/fellowship program at a foreign institution and who are expected to graduate from that same institution. International medical students enrolled at an international medical school and who are expected to graduate from that same school after the prospective visit would take place. Medical students who are in the last year of medical school at the time of their application are not eligible. Eligible students who are in their final year of medical school may consider applying for the Elective Program.
WARNING: NOT for IMGs seeking US residency — applications from residency-seeking IMGs will not be considered. For international physicians practicing abroad, residents, fellows, and medical students only.Verbatim from source page · audited 2026-05-25
Quick highlights
Strong points
- Verified direct sourceAudited URL — no platform middleman, no scraped data
- INTL physicians eligibleOpen to international medical graduates
Fees, duration & what it costs
What's included
- 1 month of structured clinical experience
- Placement in Multiple departments
- Direct supervision by attending faculty
- Rounds, case discussions, and bedside teaching participation
How to apply
- Identify a faculty host or coordinator at the program.Many IMG observerships require a faculty sponsor BEFORE you can apply. Use the contact email in the sidebar.
- Submit your application packet directly to the program.Typical packet: CV, USMLE scores or ECFMG certificate, letter of intent, proof of funding, immunizations, and (for INTL) translated medical license.
- Pay any required application or program fee.Many programs charge a non-refundable application fee + per-rotation program fee. See the cost tile above for this program's specific amounts.
- Complete pre-arrival paperwork and visa coordination.Most IMG observerships do not sponsor educational visas — applicants travel on B-1/B-2 visitor status. Confirm before booking travel.
Available specialties
Eligibility requirements
MD/MBBS, must be practicing abroad or in training internationally. NOT for IMGs in US seeking residency. | Visa: B1/B2
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