CHOP International Observership Program
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania · Observership
Always confirm details on the official institution page before applying. Requirements, fees, and deadlines can change.
About this program
The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia International Observership Program, run by Global Pediatric Education, is a two- to eight-week pediatric observership aimed at internationally based clinicians, and it is explicit about who it excludes. Only three applicant types are accepted: a fully trained healthcare professional currently working abroad and returning abroad, a medical fellow or resident enrolled in a foreign program and returning there, or a health-field student without a terminal degree who intends to practice outside the US. CHOP explicitly excludes medical students seeking clinical credit and, critically for any USMLE-IMG audience, anyone using the observership to pursue US graduate medical training. English fluency is mandatory. The program charges a single $750 administrative fee plus a background screening fee that varies by country. CHOP is unusually explicit on two IMG-relevant policies: faculty do not provide LORs because observers do not perform hands-on clinical work, and participants do receive a certificate documenting the dates of the observership.
Quick highlights
Strong points
- Verified direct sourceAudited URL — no platform middleman, no scraped data
- INTL physicians eligibleOpen to international medical graduates
- Certificate of completionIssued on successful program completion
Fees, duration & what it costs
What's included
- 2 to 8 weeks of structured clinical experience
- Placement in Pediatrics (Multi-specialty)
- Direct supervision by attending faculty
- Rounds, case discussions, and bedside teaching participation
- Certificate of completion at end of program
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
Internationally practicing clinicians or foreign trainees returning abroad; applicants intending to pursue US GME are EXPLICITLY EXCLUDED.
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