Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to UC Davis Residency and Fellowship Information

Discover our FAQ section on residency and fellowship opportunities at UC Davis Health, crafted to address your most important questions. We embrace aspiring physicians from various backgrounds, including international medical graduates, and provide a nurturing environment to help you advance your medical career. Whether you’re seeking information about application processes, visa requirements, or specific program details, you’ll find the answers you need right here to get you started. Delve into topics such as:

• Application Process: Learn how to apply for residency and what qualifications are needed.
• International Medical Graduates: Discover what defines an IMG and the steps to obtain certification.
• Visa Sponsorship: Understand which visas we accept and the requirements involved.
• Couples Match Participation: Find out about our commitment to supporting couples in their residency journey.
• Application Requirements: Get a clear picture of what constitutes a completed application.

How do I apply for residency at UC Davis?

Candidates must be eligible for licensure in the State of California. Inquiries should be directed to the Medical Board of California. Appointments will be made through the National Residency Match Program (NRMP) and applications are accepted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) websites.

What qualifies a student as an international medical graduate?

The UC Davis Residency Program uses the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates definition, which can be found at the ECFMG website.

How do international medical graduates (IMG)s obtain certification to enter US residency programs?

All IMGs must apply for certification through the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) in order to apply and be accepted into US residency training programs.

What visas do you sponsor and/or accept?

To participate in training in any UC Davis Health residency and fellowship program (ACGME or NonACGME) a physician must acquire or currently hold one of the following:

• A Clinical J1 Visa, sponsored by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) 

  Canadian Citizens must use the J1 program 

• An Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

UC Davis Health does not sponsor H1B visas for residents and fellows. All incoming J1 visa trainees are required to obtain the visa before starting training. To learn detailed information, visit https://health.ucdavis.edu/gme/imgreq.html

Do you offer a couple’s match?

Yes, we do participate in the couples match.

Do you require the ECFMG certificate for an interview?

Yes, an ECFMG Certificate is required (for international medical graduate applicants) to complete your application and only completed applications are reviewed for interview.

What's the total number of residents in your program? 

Since each program has its own number of applicants accepted annually, please verify with each program you're interested in regarding the number of positions available, including both UC and IMG applicants.

What is considered a completed application? 

Generally, completed applications consists of: ERAS application, CV, Personal Statement, 3 Letters of Recommendation, School Transcripts and USMLE Transcripts. Fellowship and Residency applications need to include letters of recommendation from any prior or current training director before application can be considered. Application requirements and appointment procedures vary according to the individual program.  All materials in the ERAS system must be submitted before the application can be reviewed.

What is the California GME Licensure Requirements?

Obtaining the appropriate California medical license is the responsibility of every physician. Learn about the key information regarding the California GME Licensure Requirements

Where can I find more information about your residency program?

For detailed information about our residency and fellowship programs, visit: https://health.ucdavis.edu/medicalschool/academicprograms/residentsfellows/residenciesfellowships