4-Year ABR Alternate Pathway

Program overview

The American Board of Radiology (ABR) offers an International Medical Graduate (IMG) Alternate Pathway to board certification for IMGs who are not planning to enter the standard residency pathway to certification in Diagnostic Radiology (DR).

At the University of Washington, the required four years of training can be accomplished through a combination of education in the following training programs: Abdominal Radiology, Cancer Imaging, Cardiothoracic Imaging, Emergency/Trauma Radiology, Musculoskeletal Radiology,  Neuroradiology, Nuclear Medicine, Pediatric Radiology, PET/CT, and Theranostics.

ABR certification allows IMGs to practice radiology in private practice or in any hospital (public or private) in the US. Most states in the US require two years of ACGME-accredited training in order to apply for an unrestricted license.

We make every effort to offer IMGs two years of ACGME training in your pathway.

The following programs are offered as part of the pathway. Please visit the individual program webpages for additional program requirements.

Interview process

An exceptional demonstrates a combination of clinical excellence, leadership qualities, a track record of strong research and scholarly activity, and volunteer or administrative work.

Application Process

Application Timeline: Applications to the Pathway are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year.

Application Requirements:

1. Completed ABR Pathway Application: Indicate all programs you are applying to for consideration. 
2. Current CV 
3. Personal statement
4. USMLE 1-3 score reports. Successful completion of all 3 USMLE steps is required before an applicant may be considered for a potential pathway.
5. Valid ECFMG Certificate. Include extension if applicable.
6. Medical school diploma
7. Medical school transcripts
8. Dean’s letter/MSPE from medical school
9. Certificate of completion of residency
10. Three letters of recommendation. Include a letter from your residency training program, a letter from your current fellowship (if attending), and a letter from other faculty, colleagues, or fellowship directors.
11. Valid work authorization

Send completed applications to the ABR Alternate Pathway Program Administrator Kathy Nguyen at kn38@uw.edu:

For the full list of prerequisites, eligibility requirements, and how to apply to the ABR for certification, visit the Alternate Pathways to Certification webpage.

Interview Process

Once we receive your application, our programs will review your application. If there is sufficient interest, you will be offered virtual interviews with the faculty and staff of the interested programs. The interview process typically takes 2-4 hours for each program.

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

FAQ

• What is the deadline to submit my application?
  • We accept applications on a rolling basis and review applications as long as we have openings. Once all application material requirements are met, please email the materials to the Fellowship Program Administrator at kn38@uw.edu.
• What visa can be sponsored?
  • The UW Department of Radiology’s 4-year ABR Alternate Pathway program is eligible for J-1 sponsorship at this time. H-1B transfers are supported.
• Can I apply without my USMLE Step 3 score?
  • No. Please apply once all application documents are ready. Applicants will not be considered for a potential Pathway until all materials are provided. Providing some documents early will not give applicants an advantage or a head-start.
• What are housing options in the Seattle area?
  • Housing options in the Seattle area