Texas Tech HSC Internal Medicine IMG Observership
Lubbock, Texas · Observership
Always confirm details on the official institution page before applying. Requirements, fees, and deadlines can change.
About this program
Texas Tech's Internal Medicine observership is one of the more transparent IMG-oriented programs in the country, with the costs, timelines, and eligibility criteria all published up front. Applicants must have graduated from an ECFMG-approved medical school, be at least sixteen years old, and have already completed USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 — both score reports are required as part of the application. Those whose countries require US visas must also provide valid visa documentation to TTUHSC before onboarding. The program operates in four-week or eight-week blocks; more than two experiences exceeding eight weeks require special approval. Placement is first-come, first-served through a dedicated portal. The fee schedule is $250 for a non-refundable application, roughly $100 for a criminal background check, and then either $2,000 for a four-week rotation or $3,800 for an eight-week rotation. Applicants upload a CV, headshot, letter of recommendation, medical school transcript, COVID vaccination card, and USMLE score reports at submission. Clinically, the rotation is a hands-off shadowing experience. In addition to general internal medicine, rotations can be arranged in nephrology, infectious diseases, and pulmonary/critical care.
Quick highlights
Strong points
- Transparent fee structure$250 application + $100 background + $2,000 (4 wk) or $3,800 (8 wk) — all published on the source page
- Three eligibility pathsECFMG certificate OR Step 1 + Step 2 score reports OR LCME-accredited medical school diploma
- IM subspecialty optionsNephrology, Infectious Diseases, and Pulmonary/Critical Care in addition to general IM
- Tier-A featuredFlagged during G0 walk as a top IMG observership for fee transparency + structured workflow
Watch for
- Hands-off onlyNo direct patient care or chart access. Strictly shadowing per TTUHSC policy
- No visa sponsorshipMust already hold valid US visa or citizenship. TTUHSC does not sponsor educational visas
- Substantial program fee$2,000 (4-wk) or $3,800 (8-wk) on top of $250 application + $100 background
- Two-block capMaximum 8 weeks total (two 4-week blocks). Beyond that requires special approval
Fees, duration & what it costs
What's included
- 4- or 8-week blocks of structured clinical experience
- Placement in your chosen specialty across 3 departments
- Direct supervision by attending faculty
- Rounds, case discussions, and bedside teaching participation
- Letter of recommendation eligibility (attending discretion)
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
ECFMG-approved medical school graduate; USMLE Step 1 AND Step 2 required; valid visa if applicable; LOR at application.
USMLE / COMLEX: USMLE Step 1 AND Step 2 both required; ECFMG certificate or scores due 4 weeks before start
ECFMG: Yes — ECFMG-approved medical school required
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