UW DLMP Global Observership (Pathology)
Seattle, Washington · Observership
Always confirm details on the official institution page before applying. Requirements, fees, and deadlines can change.
About this program
UW's Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology runs a one-month Global Observership Program aimed at medical school graduates who are not currently enrolled in a residency program and who want formal US pathology exposure before applying for training. The program stands out for two reasons: it requires applicants to have already passed USMLE Step 1 and submit the score, and it offers a stipend of up to $2,500 to offset housing, food, and travel costs. Applications run through Embark and must include a CV, USMLE Step 1 score, two-page personal statement, short-answer response, and contact information for a recommender who will submit a letter of recommendation — making the LOR a structural part of the program. Visa handling is the applicant's responsibility; UW accepts B1/B2, F1, or permanent-resident status. The observer shadows faculty, residents, and fellows across surgical pathology, clinical pathology, and select subspecialty rotations. Demonstrated prior experience or clear interest in pathology is preferred.
Quick highlights
Strong points
- $2,500 stipend (not a fee!)Program PAYS the observer up to $2,500 — rare positive in IMG observership landscape
- Highly selectiveONE medical school graduate accepted per month (~12 per year)
- Single Step 1 requirementOnly USMLE Step 1 + score submission needed. Step 2/3 not required
- IMG-eligible exception at UWUW Medicine general observerships exclude IMGs — this + Radiology are the only two openings
Watch for
- Pre-residency onlyStrictly for graduates NOT currently enrolled in residency. Current residents elsewhere are ineligible
- LOR required at applicationApplication requires ≥1 letter of recommendation upfront — not just a CV submission
- Visa applicant-arrangedUW does not sponsor educational visas. INTL applicants must self-arrange B-1/B-2 or other
- 1-month rotation capFixed one-month duration. No extensions or stacking
Fees, duration & what it costs
What's included
- One month of structured clinical experience
- Placement in Anatomic Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
- 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
Medical school graduates not currently in residency; USMLE Step 1 passed; pathology interest; must hold own visa.
USMLE / COMLEX: USMLE Step 1 required; score submitted with application
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