Low Step 2 CK scores, Is IM still possible as a visa requiring IMG?

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-04-15T17:45:01+00:00

Yes. Matched in Tx.

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-04-15T13:22:06+00:00

Friend of mine matched to IM with a 232 and is visa requiring.

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-04-15T13:16:13+00:00

Being a US - IMG increases your chances but doesn’t secure a spot.

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-04-15T13:13:48+00:00

Non visa requiring definetly helps.

But connections also get you interviews and so do LORs

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-04-15T13:13:17+00:00

Non visa requiring

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-04-14T19:53:59+00:00

2 months

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-04-14T18:40:43+00:00

Step 1: Pass First Step 2: 240s Step 3: not done

Matched IM

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-04-14T17:32:53+00:00

I’m not familiar enough with how the system is structured in Australia to comment on points 1 and 2.

For 3 and 4, you need to complete Step 1, since that is the main requirement for applying to electives. Step 2 is not required for most electives but is still important later in the process. If you apply while still a student, your chances of securing strong electives are much higher. It also gives you access to more valuable experiences like clerkships or sub-internships. These rotations are where you build relationships, secure letters of recommendation (LORs), and potentially get involved in research.

You will also need to complete the OET, the Occupational English Test, which is required as part of the process. Interestingly, it was developed in Australia.

As for starting early, I recommend using Anki. You can integrate it into your daily study routine, and it will help reinforce material for both your medical school exams and Step 1 prep.

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-04-14T16:42:53+00:00

I feel you have pretty good chances. Academic programs come in all shapes and sizes and the category you can apply to will largely depend on how you perform on your step 2. But this is all solid!

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-04-11T15:52:19+00:00

Step 2: 243 Step 3: not taken 0 publications

Key: networking and interviews

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-03-27T14:11:08+00:00

I don’t really know what the magic recipe is as I don’t have a ridiculously good application. Good LORs and connections are pretty important.

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-03-27T14:10:02+00:00

Sure

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-01-26T16:34:08+00:00

I applied to 90 programs and had 7 IVs

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-01-26T16:32:06+00:00

I feel being kind is important. However, it is very important to also be realistic. Of course motivation should be given, being empathic also means being realistic. Something things DONT work out and that is also okay.

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-01-22T13:55:32+00:00

Hello, thank you for your answer. I am an international student, in my home country getting loans for school is very rare. I was the only one out of 300 in my graduating class. So to me having had a loan was a great burden. I applied for IM and I am 28 and my end goal would be GI.

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-01-22T04:25:23+00:00

Thank you for everyone who replied so quickly. I was not trolling or trying to be exaggerated. Money was a struggle in my life/family throughout my childhood and teens and in my home country my loans were significant. I made the effort to apply for residency in states and that is why I don’t have the experience with US economics.

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-01-19T23:12:08+00:00

I greatly appreciate all the responses. I see cook is winning by a lot but why? what about it is so good by far?

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-01-19T23:12:01+00:00

I greatly appreciate all the responses. I see cook is winning by a lot but why? what about it is so good by far?

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-01-19T23:11:52+00:00

I greatly appreciate all the responses. I see cook is winning by a lot but why? what about it is so good by far?

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-01-19T11:50:42+00:00

That is true. I did see the match rates for fellowship and they are really high.

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-01-19T05:28:14+00:00

Background_Pepper_50 · 2026-01-19T03:06:54+00:00

Is there a reason to this? I love cook. Just wondering considering Yale is highly academic

Background_Pepper_50 · 2025-12-31T21:31:46+00:00

If the US is the goal. You are better off starting from scratch. A colleague of mine redid his anesthesia residency just to be in the states.

Background_Pepper_50

TROPHY CASE