University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine Visiting Students
Iowa City, Iowa · Visiting Student (MD/DO)
Always confirm details on the official institution page before applying. Requirements, fees, and deadlines can change.
About this program
University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine runs its visiting student elective program outside the AAMC VSLO platform: UIHC does not participate in VSLO. Instead, applicants use the Iowa application portal, which opens April 1 for 2026 opportunities. The 2026 block start dates are July 6, August 3, August 31, and September 28. Eligibility is 4th-year medical students from LCME-accredited schools only — DO students are generally ineligible except for a limited pilot for Des Moines University students. Requirements include completion of core clinical courses comparable to Carver's curriculum, USMLE Step 1 passage, health and malpractice insurance ($1M/$3M minimum), HIPAA and universal-precautions training, completed background check, and immunization compliance. Some departments require a separate departmental application first, followed by CCOM institutional steps after conditional acceptance. A $75 non-refundable acceptance fee is due upon offer.
Quick highlights
Strong points
- Verified direct sourceAudited URL — no platform middleman, no scraped data
- Multi-specialty (11+)Placement available across multiple clinical departments
- Certificate of completionIssued on successful program completion
- Rolling applicationsApply year-round, not tied to a single yearly window
Watch for
- USMLE Step requiredUSMLE Step 1 passed (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 (Jul 6, Aug 3, Aug 31, Sep 28 2026 starts) of structured clinical experience
- Placement in your chosen specialty across 11 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
4th-year US LCME students (DO generally excluded); Step 1 passed; core clerkships completed.
USMLE / COMLEX: USMLE Step 1 passed (required)
Graduation year: Class of 2027
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