UAB International Visiting Medical Observership

The University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine runs one of the more structured fee-based observerships in the Southeast US. The program is built for recent international medical graduates holding an MD or equivalent (MBBS) as well as international medical students, with an explicit USMLE Step 1 passing score required at application and USMLE Step 2/3 preferred but optional. English proficiency is verified via TOEFL or OET Medicine minimum scores unless the applicant qualifies for a waiver. The application packet includes the medical diploma, CV, one letter of recommendation, and a personal statement, packaged as two PDFs and submitted through an online portal at least three months before the desired start. Fees are non-trivial and clearly posted: $350 non-refundable application fee plus $4,250 per four-week slot; 8-week engagements are two consecutive 4-week slots. Observers additionally pay for TB chest X-ray, housing, transport, and document at least $2,000 of living expenses. UAB does not sponsor visas — a B-1/B-2 with a B-1 (Business) stamp is recommended. The program is strict about scope: no direct or indirect patient interaction, no hands-on training, shadowing of faculty, attendings, and chief residents only, with attendance at daily rounds, Grand Rounds, teaching rounds, journal clubs, and conferences. UAB publicly states the observership 'does not have any bearing on pending/future residency nor fellowship applications.' Because UAB accepts IMGs, requires USMLE Step 1, is an academic medical center, and the application includes a letter of recommendation, it is a strong Tier A candidate.