TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Establishing an ECFMG Account
- Medical School Credential Verification (via EPIC/ECFMG)
- USMLE Step 1 Registration & Preparation
- USMLE Step 2 CK (Clinical Knowledge)
- ECFMG Pathway Enrollment & OET Medicine
- ECFMG Certification
- ERAS Application (Electronic Residency Application Service)
- NRMP Match Enrollment
- Match Week & Post-Match Options
Introduction
Comprehensive Guidance and Support from New Anglia University
For students who wish to pursue postgraduate medical training in the United States, obtaining ECFMG certification and participating in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) are essential steps. New Anglia University (NAU) offers a structured, step-by-step roadmap to help students successfully complete each requirement—academic, regulatory, and strategic—on their way to securing a U.S. residency position.
Step-by-Step Pathway & NAU Support
1. Establishing an ECFMG Account
Students begin by creating an account on the ECFMG’s IWA (Interactive Web Applications) portal. This step includes uploading a valid passport, photograph, and other personal information.
NAU Support Includes:
- Onboarding sessions for setting up your ECFMG profile correctly
- Troubleshooting and documentation workshops
- Dedicated liaison for ECFMG inquiries
2. Medical School Credential Verification (via EPIC/ECFMG)
ECFMG requires NAU to verify each student’s degree status, academic records, and diploma through its EPIC system.
NAU Support Includes:
- Priority document verification and transcript submission
- Confirmation of NAU’s ECFMG sponsor note status in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS)
- Registrar’s office liaison to expedite processing
3. USMLE Step 1 Registration & Preparation
Students register for and take USMLE Step 1, which tests foundational medical sciences knowledge.
NAU Support Includes:
- Access to USMLE-style resources, Q-banks, and review sessions
- Academic schedule tailored to USMLE objectives
- Progress tracking and readiness assessments
- Faculty-led small group tutorials and mock exams
4. USMLE Step 2 CK (Clinical Knowledge)
After completing Step 1, students proceed to USMLE Step 2 CK, which focuses on clinical decision-making and patient care.
NAU Support Includes:
- Curriculum alignment with clinical science competencies
- Step 2 CK workshops, clinical scenario-based learning
- Alumni-led strategy sessions for top scoring
- Mock exams and personalized study planning
5. ECFMG Pathway Enrollment & OET Medicine
As Step 2 CS has been discontinued, students must complete an ECFMG Pathway (e.g., Pathway 3 or 6) and pass the OET Medicine exam to demonstrate English proficiency.
NAU Support Includes:
- Pathway selection counselling
- Preparation for OET Medicine, including sample tests and guided coaching
- Document review and administrative assistance for submission to ECFMG
6. ECFMG Certification
Once Steps 1, 2 CK, the OET, and the ECFMG Pathway are complete, students are granted ECFMG Certification, which is required to apply for U.S. residencies.
NAU Support Includes:
- Final checks to ensure eligibility and documentation
- Coordination between NAU’s academic office and ECFMG for transcript dispatch
- Pre-certification audits and student-specific consultations
???? NRMP MATCH APPLICATION (Residency Entry)
7. ERAS Application (Electronic Residency Application Service)
Students submit their applications through ERAS, the AAMC-run portal used by most U.S. residency programs.
NAU Support Includes:
- Personal Statement writing support
- CV formatting and academic review
- Letters of Recommendation (LoR) guidance and formatting
- ERAS portal training sessions
8. NRMP Match Enrollment
Students must also register with the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) to participate in the annual Match, where applicants are paired with residency programs.
NAU Support Includes:
- Timeline tracking and alerts for NRMP registration and ROL (Rank Order List) deadlines
- Mock interview preparation with U.S.-trained physicians
- Personalized match strategy advising (e.g., specialty choice, location preference)
- Access to alumni mentors currently in U.S. residency programs
9. Match Week & Post-Match Options
During Match Week (typically in March), students are notified of their placement. If unmatched, they may enter the Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP).
NAU Support Includes:
- Real-time Match Week coaching and communication
- SOAP strategy, application refinement, and program targeting
- Post-Match planning and guidance for reapplication, externships, or research year options
Why NAU is Your Partner in U.S. Residency Success
New Anglia University is committed to ensuring that its graduates are fully prepared and strategically positioned for U.S. residency training. We offer:
✅ Structured timelines and exam preparation across all four years
✅ U.S. residency planning from Year 3 onward
✅ Active academic advisory and alumni mentorship
✅ A proven track record of students progressing toward ECFMG certification and NRMP success