Frequently Asked Questions

The Office of the Secretary of International Student Affairs created this FAQ to support international IMGs navigating their clinical years at Ross University School of Medicine (RUSM). We know that studying and training in the U.S. on a visa can come with extra layers of paperwork, planning, and adjustment as such we’re here to help make that experience smoother.

Below are some of the most common questions we receive from international students and the resources available to you.

1. Who can I talk to about visa-related questions during my clinical years?
   → The Clinical Student Government can connect you with the RUSM Office of Immigration & Visa Services, which handles B1, B2, J-1 and H-1B documentation, renewals, and status updates. Always contact them before traveling or changing sites. Their email is immigration@rossu.edu.

2. Can I do rotations outside of RUSM’s affiliated hospitals if I’m on a visa?
   → Yes, you can, you would need to work with Clinical Clerkships office as well as with OCA. I would get started this as early as possible as you would probably need more time to ensure that all paperwork has been validated.

3. What do I need to do to maintain my visa status during clinical rotations?
   → You must update the school before any travel, and promptly report address or site changes. The immigration office does audits to confirm the status of their students. Most important documents include your passport data page, your visa stamp and your I-94.

4. Can I participate in student leadership or on-campus organizations while on a visa?
   → Absolutely! Many leadership positions within Clinical Student Government, peer mentoring, and academic committees are open to international students and do not require U.S. work authorization.

5. How can I connect with other international students for support or advice?
   → Join the Non-US IMGs WhatsApp chat group, coordinated by the Secretary of International Students.

6. Who can help if I have issues with housing, transportation, or adjusting to a new rotation site?
   → At this time, your best resource is joining the Clinical Community WhatsApp groups. We are currently undergoing a potential project that would address these needs in a more streamlined manner. Any updates will be provided soon. 

7. Can I volunteer in community or clinical outreach while on a visa?
   → Yes — as long as the work is unpaid and educational. The Clinical sites and the various clubs and orgs have opportunities for you to volunteer.

8. What should I know about the ECFMG certification process?
   → You’ll need to complete all USMLE Step1 and Step 2, complete OET and request assessment certification from Ross. Some programs may require certification to be considered for interviews or for ranking, make note of your timeline regarding that

9. How can I get help identifying residency programs that sponsor visas (J-1/H-1B)?
   → This depends on the specialty that you would be applying to. For all specialties except those using ResidencyCAS as their application platform, ResidencyExplorer is the best. For ResidencyCAS specialties, FRIEDA is better. The best way to confirm, however, is to check the individual programs requirements and their resident list to determine their friendliness. 

Your journey as an international medical student is an incredible achievement — and you’re not alone. The Clinical Student Government is here to advocate for your needs, share helpful resources, and ensure every RUSM student feels supported throughout their clinical and residency journey.

📩 Have more questions?

Reach out anytime at CSGAInternationalStudents@mail.rossmed.edu or talk to your site representative or immigration team.