University of Washington Medical Center
Seattle, Washington · Observership
Always confirm details on the official institution page before applying. Requirements, fees, and deadlines can change.
About this program
University of Washington Medicine's Observerships page (medicine.uw.edu/education/observerships) serves as a hub for three distinct observer audiences across the UW Medicine system: (1) CLINICAL OBSERVERSHIPS at UW Medical Center campuses (Montlake and Northwest) — visiting medical personnel must independently identify a medical-staff host before applying; (2) Harborview Medical Center (HMC) — medical personnel must request observation privileges directly through HMC; (3) PRE-MED STUDENTS — directed to the UW School of Medicine separate shadowing portal. All observerships are strictly hands-off: 'No patient care or hands on medical training will be conducted.' IMG GRADUATES are EXPLICITLY NOT accepted for general observerships, shadowing, or audition electives at UW because the institution is at capacity with its own students and residents. NARROW EXCEPTIONS exist for IMGs only in: Pathology Global Observership AND Radiology observership pathways — these are separate program tracks not centrally listed on this hub. Distinct from UW SOM Visiting Student Program (which serves US LCME M4 students, not currently a separate listing in this directory).
Quick highlights
Strong points
- Verified direct sourceAudited URL — no platform middleman, no scraped data
Watch for
- Hands-off observation onlyNo direct patient care or EMR access permitted
Fees, duration & what it costs
What's included
- 2-4 weeks of structured clinical experience
- Placement in Multi-track observership hub: UWMC (Montlake + Northwest) + Harborview + pre-me...
- 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, USMLE Step 1, faculty sponsor, health clearance | Visa: B1/B2
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