Cleveland Clinic Elective Program
Cleveland, Ohio · Visiting Student (MD/DO)
Always confirm details on the official institution page before applying. Requirements, fees, and deadlines can change.
About this program
The Cleveland Clinic Elective Program is a clinical elective track for final-year medical students run in partnership with the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of CWRU. Students apply through AAMC VSLO for four-week rotations at the main Cleveland campus, with some offerings at Cleveland Clinic Florida in Weston. Block openings for the 2026-27 cycle are staggered: Block 1 opened January 16, 2026, Blocks 2-8 opened February 13, 2026, and Blocks 10-13 open August 14, 2026. The $200 domestic / $400 international application fee is non-refundable. USMLE Step 1 or COMLEX Level 1 passing scores are required. As of January 1, 2026 a 10-panel drug test is required, with results sent roughly one month before start. Malpractice insurance proof is required before start. International physicians and non-US medical students with observership interest are directed separately to Cleveland Clinic's International Medical Education department.
Quick highlights
Strong points
- Verified direct sourceAudited URL — no platform middleman, no scraped data
- Certificate of completionIssued on successful program completion
Watch for
- USMLE Step requiredUSMLE Step 1 or COMLEX Level 1 passing score required
- No visa sponsorshipINTL applicants must self-arrange B-1/B-2 visitor visa
Fees, duration & what it costs
What's included
- 4-week blocks; staggered openings Jan 16 / Feb 13 / Aug 14... of structured clinical experience
- Placement in Multi-specialty (40+ departments)
- 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
Final-year medical students from LCME/AOA schools; international pathway more limited; Step 1 or COMLEX Level 1 required; drug test + malpractice mandatory.
USMLE / COMLEX: USMLE Step 1 or COMLEX Level 1 passing score required
Graduation year: Class of 2027
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