How to

work
as a
Physician in
Australia | Canada | Saudi Arabia
United Kingdom | United States

Test names and other trademarks are the property of the respective trademark holders.
None of the trademark holders are affiliated with CanadaQBank.com.

www.CanadaQBank.com | [email protected]
 CANADAQBANK

table of contents
INTRODUCTION 03

Steps to becoming a licensed

practicing physician in

AUSTRALIA 04

CANADA 10

SAUDI ARABIA 20

UNITED KINGDOM 24

UNITED STATES 32

INSTITUTIONAL SUBSCRIPTIONS 40

OUR MOBILE APPS 42

VIDEOS 43

CONTACT US 44

2
 INTRODUCTION

THE JOURNEY TO BECOME A

PRACTICING PHYSICIAN
Each year, we receive several messages from medical students and physicians
abroad who are interested in practicing medicine in Canada or the United States or
one of the countries that we have QBanks for.

For anyone beginning the journey, it can be a challenge and sometimes even
discouraging to look at the road ahead and the many tasks that have to be
completed for one to be able to make it as a practicing physician in these
countries.

We endeavour to create a newsletter where information can be found to assist

interested candidates in navigating these difficult decisions so that they will be
able to find resources, connections and guidance in their journey as international
medical graduates (IMGs).

In this document we will look at 5 countries: Australia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, the
United Kingdom and the United States of America.

3
 AUSTRALIA

Steps to becoming a licensed practicing physician

in Australia:
TWO MAJOR PATHWAYS
Like most western countries, Australia has 2 different systems, one for national
medical graduates and another for international medical graduates (IMGs). While
the required competency tests are standardized to ensure that all medical
practitioners have undergone uniform assessment, the pathways that Australian
physicians who went to medical school in Australia go through differ from the
pathways for IMGs.

To summarize, those who graduate from Australian medical schools, pass a clinical
exam before they start their one year internship. After internship, they can continue
into specialty programs.

For IMGs, the agency that handles the applications from initial registration to take
the exams is the Australian Medical Council. www.amc.org.au

When IMGs are signing up, they are given 2 choices: they can choose to enter the
Australian healthcare system through what is the known as "the standard pathway".
This means that they have to start from scratch by taking the Australian medical
licensing exams. There are 2 exams: the AMC CAT, which is the Australian Medical
Council Computer Adaptive Test and the AMC Clinical exam.

The second option is what is known as the "competent authority pathway". In which
physicians who have credentials from other countries that are considered to deliver
“competent” medical licenses and/or are equivalent to an Australian medical license,
have their credentials assessed and approved to practice in Australia without having
to take the Australian exams.

The Standard Pathway

Signing up for the standard pathway is the choice for many IMGs who want to start
residency in Australia. They have graduated from different developing or developed
non-English speaking countries, they have little to no experience after medical school
or they have not done any post-graduate training.

4
 AUSTRALIA

This also includes those who may have done post-graduate training in countries that Australia
considers “non-competent”, in other words, the residency programs they have gone through
are not considered to have the same high standards like in the Australian healthcare system.
Most non-western countries fall in this category.

To sign up, you go to the website of the Australian Medical Council and open an account.
You answer the questions about your identity, medical school, experience and address. Then,
you must mail the requested documents to the Australian Medical Council for verification.
An IELTS (English Test) is usually recommended before starting the process.

They do not put much emphasis on the IELTS requirement at this stage, but it is included
in the rules and they may decide to emphasize it on a case by case basis if they feel the
candidate does not have the requisite knowledge to pass the medical licensing exams.
Once the documents certifying your medical diploma and identity are received by the
AMC, it takes several weeks for documents to be verified. They contract the service of the
ECFMG (in the United States) for verification just like the Medical Council of Canada
(MCC) does.

Clearly for those who have passed their USMLEs (in the United States) and already have an
account with the ECFMG, the review is much faster. Once the review of your documents is
complete, you will be sent a letter of eligibility by the AMC. The letter certifies that your
documents and ID have been reviewed and you are eligible to take the AMC CAT and your
AMC number is shown on the letter.

You can then log into your online AMC account, select an exam date, and make payment
for the exam. There are many exam centers in various cities around the world. If you clear
that AMC CAT, then you can proceed to apply for the AMC Clinical exam. To study for the
AMC CAT, you may use the CanadaQBank online test preparation service at
www.CanadaQBank.com

It has the preparation material that would be sufficient to pass the exam. The AMC will also
mention the availability of their own resources once they register you for the exam.

5
 AUSTRALIA

The AMC CAT consists of 150 questions, with only 120 questions that will be counted and
scored towards your assessment. The remaining 30 questions are included for quality
assurance and future test planning.

You should do your best on all questions because you will not know which questions will
be counted in your score. The questions/cases cover internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics,
ObGyn, psychiatry and Australian public health. Because the AMC CAT is a computer
adaptive test, the difficulty level will depend on your performance in the earlier questions
you do during the exam. If the exam feels like it is getting tougher and tougher, to the
point that you could call it the toughest exam you have ever taken, it may be because you
have answered correctly the easiest and intermediate questions and you are only getting
more advanced questions as you progress along. This is in case we assume you are well
prepared and have studied hard.

The results of the exam are provided within 10 days of the exam and you will need to log
on to their website with your AMC number to access your scores. They will also mail a
paper transcript to your physical address 4-8 weeks after the online results.

The AMC Clinical exam is offered twice per year, in the spring and the fall. Just like the
Canadian MCCQE Part 2. It has 16 cases for which you are given 10 minutes per case. The
cases cover the same topics like AMC CAT except that public health is generally not part
of the AMC Clinical. This does not mean they can’t bring a public health case because in
their curriculum this is indicated as one of the subjects you should be competent in.

Two cases are pilot cases and are not scored. This means that they will score 14 of the
cases. Doing 10 cases correctly is required to be able to pass. The cases test ability to take
a history, do a physical exam, or counsel the patient about management. In cases of
management, a patient should be informed about the diagnostic tests that will be
required to confirm a diagnosis and the treatment options available.

Patients may ask the physician some pre-determined questions. The way those questions
are answered is counted in the scoring and indeed answering those questions wrong
could result in a failing score on the station despite having taken the history or performed
the physical exam correctly. In many ways, the AMC Clinical is similar to MCCQE Part 2,
except in the way the cases are scored and how points are awarded for each case. The
AMC will also recommend some resources for this exam.

6
 AUSTRALIA

If both exams (AMC CAT and the AMC Clinical) are passed successfully, the candidate
is issued the AMC certificate of completion, similar to the Canadian LMCC. This certificate
can be used to register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA):
www.ahpra.gov.au/Registration.aspx

The AMC certificate of completion can also be used to apply to hospitals directly for
positions for internship. This is usually an open door into residency or specialization. While
the AMC Certificate is sufficient on paper as it gives you a green light to practice in
Australia, hospitals tend to recruit people who have much more than exam scores.

A person who has done residency elsewhere is likely to be given preference. The more
recent your medical practice experience is, the higher the chances of getting residency in
Australia. This means that for those who are not fleeing some dangerous situations, it may be
more beneficial to stay engaged in medical practice in your country of origin while waiting
for the AMC certificate rather than immigrate first and then lack employment opportunities
after landing.

Australia has 6 states and they all accept the AMC certificate and while each state has their
own licensing body, the requirements are uniform, which means that there will not be
additional competency requirements in different states. To contact the state medical boards
of Australia you can go to: www.medicalboard.gov.au

In any case, after AMC, candidates will deal next with the Australian Health Practitioner
Regulation Agency (AHPRA). The AHPRA is the agency that registers physicians for initial
medical practice while the state board where you practice will enforce the standards.

The AHPRA has an English requirement in addition to the medical competence

requirements. Usually, a 7-7.5 score on IELTS academic is the minimum acceptable score to
practice in Australia. They require 7.5 on two components of the English exam and 7.0 on
two other components. They specify which components they want 7.0 and which ones you
must get a 7.5.

The Competent Authority Pathway

In this section we will examine four countries that the AMC considers equivalent to medical
credentials in Australia.

The countries that are considered equivalent are Canada, New Zealand, the UK and the USA.
There are other developed countries that may be able to come close to those four, but the
criteria that is used to deem those other countries “competent” is less straight forward, but
may in fact be the same as those who use the standard pathway.

7
 AUSTRALIA

This means that a candidate from Canada, New Zealand, the UK or the USA does not need
to take the AMC CAT or AMC Clinical.

The medical licensing exams taken in Canada are considered sufficient to prove readiness
to practice in Australia.

For New Zealand, a candidate must have passed the only exam provided there, which is
the New Zealand Clinical Exam, which is similar in format to Australian Clinical Exam but
more expensive and more difficult. One year of post-graduate training is not required by
Australia for those who have New Zealand Clinical Exam passing scores, but it is unlikely
anyone can pass the New Zealand Clinical exam without a year of post-graduate training.

New Zealand has IELTS requirements that are higher than those of Australia and it must
be cleared before applying for the New Zealand Clinical Skills Exam. In all 4 components a
score of 7.5 is required for IELTS academic.

For the UK, a candidate must have passed the PLAB Part 1 and the PLAB Part 2 and have
at least one year of post-graduate training.

For the USA, a physician must have cleared the USMLE steps 1, 2 and 3 and also finished
at least one year of residency training in the United States. If a candidate has passed
USMLE step 3 but has no residency in the USA, that is not considered competency.

Specialists from non-competent authorities

Those who have earned specialist credentials from other countries considered
“non-competent authorities” after 3-6 years of post-graduate training in those countries,
can be assessed by AMC on a case by case basis.

They will not be able to go through the fast-track route of competent authority pathway,
but they can still have their post-graduate training recognized to enter their specialties
without repeating all the years of training.

A cardiologist from Ukraine or Sweden, can practice cardiology in Australia, on the

condition of clearing the AMC CAT and AMC Clinical, and possibly working at least 1 year
as an intern in an Australian hospital, before having the previous years of specialization in
a foreign country counted as equivalent to Australian medical specialties.

For those with specialties from non-European countries, there may be requirements to
undergo more years of specialized training in Australia before being allowed to practice
independently.

8
 Question Bank for the Australian Medical Council (AMC)
Computer Adaptive Test (CAT)

SUBJECTS
Medicine | Pediatrics | OBGYN |
Surgery | Psychiatry | Preventive
Medicine & Community
Health (PMCH)

NUMBER OF QUESTIONS
[3360]

Features of the QBank of the AMC CAT

3360 of the very best, classic, simulated Review detailed analysis of AMC CAT
Multiple Choice Questions tests taken

Each test prep question covers a Performance review by subject category

different AMC CAT topic from the subject
Overall cumulative performance
areas tested
Compare your scores with other people
Answers and detailed explanations for all
practice exam questions
Real MCQ interface for true simulation,
with normal lab values
Take tests in timed, un-timed and tutor
modes Revised and expanded with feedback
Generate tests by subject category or any from the most recent exams
combination of categories Continuous updates to the questions
Unused, incorrect only, or all question and explanations
selections
Accessible 24/7 from anywhere
Choose how many questions you want to
Pass the AMC CAT - guaranteed or get
take in each block
3 months free!
Mark exam questions and write your own
notes during the test

www.canadaqbank.com/amc-cat.php

A U S T R A L I A
 CANADA

Steps to becoming a licensed practicing physician

in Canada:
IMGs Who Are Permanent Residents or Citizens of Canada
The difference between IMGs who are permanent residents or citizens of Canada and
those who are not in this category are not many, but it can be a factor. First, by Canadian
law, medical residency can be given only to those who are permanent residents or
citizens of Canada.

Because in most provinces you have to sign an agreement of return of service after
residency. Meaning you have to stay and work in that province in an assigned rural area
for 3-5 years after the completion of your residency training.

Therefore it makes sense that foreigners who have no permanent residence are not
considered a priority in the Canadian public funding of post-graduate training. This means
that only those who are residents or citizens are allowed to participate in the Canadian
Resident Matching Service (CaRMS): www.carms.ca

Another difference is that those who are already in Canada can present themselves for
interviews, observerships, internships and jobs at short notice and without additional
immigration paperwork.

Different provinces have different requirements for residency matching, so it is important

to be aware of the requirements in the province where one is applying.

Residency Programs in Canada by Province

1. Alberta

www.aimg.ca

2. British Columbia

www.imgbc.med.ubc.ca

3. Manitoba

www.umanitoba.ca/faculties/health_sciences/medicine/education/imgp/index.html
10
 CANADA

4. New Brunswick

www.carms.ca/match/r-1-main-residency-match/eligibility-criteria/nova-scotia-new-brunswick-pei

5. Newfoundland

www.carms.ca/match/r-1-main-residency-match/eligibility-criteria/newfoundland-and-labrador

6. Ontario

www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/hhrsd/physicians/international_medical_graduates.aspx

7. Prince Edward Island

www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/information/health-pei/family-medicine-residency-program

8. Quebec

www.cmq.org/page/en/formation-postdoctorale.aspx

9. Saskatchewan

www.carms.ca/match/r-1-main-residency-match/eligibility-criteria/saskatchewan

11
 CANADA

IMGs Who Live Outside of Canada

While IMGs who live outside of Canada do not have the same privilege of applying for
Canadian residency, there are other ways that they can enter the Canadian healthcare
system and practice medicine.

These include provincial programs that have been set up for the intake of qualified IMGs
who meet certain eligibility criteria to practice as family physicians or as GPs. Sometimes
they are called provisional licenses or limited registration.

The common requirements for most provinces are:

• Being a graduate of a medical school that is considered by the Medical Council of

Canada (MCC) to be acceptable. Most of those medical schools can be found in the IMED
directory. In any case, your credentials will have to be verified by the MCC.

• Having passed at the very least the MCCQE Part 1. This is the minimum requirement in
many cases. Because of competition, the minimum requirement may not be sufficient.
If there are many applicants competing for limited positions, obviously those who have
much more than the minimum requirement will be preferred.

• Having at least two years of post-graduate training in an eligible specialty in select

countries.

• Having practiced a number of acceptable hours within the last 2-3 years. IMGs who l ive
outside of Canada who fulfill these requirements can potentially get approved by
provinces to practice medicine in Canada on a provisional license. Usually after 3 years
under supervision or with a provisional license, they qualify for the certification exam,
which opens the door to full licensure.

Of course, those who are residents or citizens who fulfill these requirements can be
approved as well. Which means they have an advantage of “double entry
opportunities”—They can either apply for residency through the Canadian Resident
Matching Service (CaRMS) or they can apply directly to provinces if they meet the
provincial practice eligibility criteria.

The list of the provincial licensing authorities of Canada are here:

www.fmrac.ca/members

12
 CANADA

The Steps all IMGs share

Medical Council of Canada Examinations

MCCQE Part 1

Regardless of citizenship or immigration status, all IMGs must take the MCCQE Part 1.

1. Prepare for this exam with CanadaQBank: www.CanadaQBank.com

2.Take the exam with the Medical Council of Canada (MCC): www.mcc.ca and
www.physiciansapply.ca.

Registering for the MCCQE Part 1 starts by creating an account with the Medical Council
of Canada at their Physicians Apply website. A set of questions are asked such as the
university where the candidate graduated from, date of birth, languages the person
speaks, etc. Once the application is complete, an identity form with the picture of the
candidate has to be completed and then mailed to the MCC in Ottawa, Ontario.

A notarized copy of the government issued ID such as a passport or driver’s license is

usually among the documents you will see on the list as required to be mailed to the MCC
in Ottawa. The MCC contracts the ECFMG to do identity form verification. During this time,
the MCC, using the ECFMG services, examines the documents the candidate has submitted
such as a notarized copy of the medical degree. For documents that are not in English,
translations with MCC-approved translators is required.

MCC/ECFMG initiates primary source verification after examining the documents the
candidate submitted and the identity form from the medical school signed by the dean.
The verification tries to ascertain if the submitted documents such as transcripts and
degrees are indeed issued by the medical school to the candidate, how many years the
candidate attended, the credit hours, etc. Once the verification is complete, MCC contacts
the candidate to inform of the successful completion of the eligibility check and then the
candidate may proceed with taking the MCC exams.

It is possible that the MCC may allow the candidate to book an exam component while the
diploma and identity are still being verified. But if there’s any delay in determining the
authenticity of the identity or diploma of the candidate, MCC may cancel the planned
exam.

13
 CANADA

The MCCQE Part 1 is currently the first exam in the MCC series and it is a one day exam
divided in two sections. It contains the standard multiple choice questions that consist of
4-5 answer options with one being the correct answer. This section is taken in the
morning.

Then there is what is known as the Clinical Decision Making (CDM) cases. This is the
section of the exam taken in the afternoon and it consists of cases with multiple choice
questions with some of them having possibly multiple correct answers.

The passing score as of the end of 2019 is 226. The MCCQE Part I is offered worldwide,
with up to 5 sessions in a year:

www.mcc.ca/media/Information-sheet-IMG-MCCQE-Part-I.pdf

Since the median score of the MCCQE Part 1 is 250, with a standard deviation of 30, one
has to be at least one standard deviation above the mean to be a stand out among the
multitude of applicants for post-graduate training.

MCCQE Part 2

Completion of both the MCCQE Part I and the MCCQE Part 2 is required to be awarded
with the Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC).

This is not a medical license but it is a certificate that is a gateway to many opportunities
for physicians who want to practice in Canada.

Not all physicians need to pass the MCCQE Part 2 to be able to practice in Canada
because of multiple pathways available in the Canadian healthcare system. This exam is
not required to get into residency; however, it is required for those who have finished at
least one year of residency before they can start independent practice.

People who have done one year of internship or post-graduate training in another
country, are eligible to apply for the MCCQE Part 2, if the MCC deems that their 1 year of
post graduate training or internship is equivalent to the Canadian system.

14
 CANADA

The MCCQE Part 2 is a clinical skills exam. This means that it contains cases that test
history taking skills, physical exam techniques and medical decision making in diagnostic
orders or medical treatment. Because most cases are on the level of someone who is
ready for independent practice, it is a difficult exam. Only 4 attempts are allowed on this
exam and the pass score is 138. Anxious IMGs who are trying to get into residency in
Canada may take this exam but it is usually not required for residency:
www.mcc.ca/examinations/mccqe-part-ii

NAC OSCE
For IMGs, the National Assessment Collaboration (NAC) Objective Structured Clinical
Examination (OSCE) is an exam that should be considered if applying for residency in
Canada. It is easier than the MCCQE Part 2 as the QE2 is for those who are
ready for independent practice and is management-heavy. While the NAC OSCE is for
those who want to undergo post-graduate training and is mostly about taking history,
physical exam and medical ethics.
https://mcc.ca/examinations/nac-overview

Provincial Provisional License Programs/ Limited Registrations/ Alternative training

through supervised practice/ Clinical Assistants

These provisional licenses are usually given to people who completed residency in
another country and at least passed their MCCQE Part 1 and practiced medicine within
2-3 years before lodging an application.

1. Alberta

www.cpsa.ca/imgs

www.albertahealthservices.ca/assets/info/hp/phys/if-hp-phys-ca-eligibility-overview.pdf

2. British Columbia

www.cpsbc.ca/for-physicians/registration-licensing/applying/imgs/provisional

15
 CANADA

3. Manitoba

www.cpsm.mb.ca/registration/are-you-an-international-medical-graduate

4. New Brunswick

www.cpsnb.org/en/medical-act-regulations-and-guidelines/regulations/408-regulation-2-registration-and-licensing

5. Newfoundland

www.practicenl.ca/?/jobs/content/img.asp

6. Nova Scotia

www.doctorsns.com/doctors/international-graduates

7. Ontario

www.healthforceontario.ca/en/Home/Health_Providers/Physicians/Registration_Requirements

8. Prince Edward Island

www.princeedwardisland.ca/sites/default/files/publications/physician_-_gp_pathway_to_licensure_updated_november2017.pdf

9. Quebec

www.cmq.org/hub/en/permis-restrictif-formation-hors-du-canada-et-des-etats-unis-formation-france.aspx

www.msss.gouv.qc.ca/professionnels/medecine-au-quebec/diplomes-internationaux/?home

10. Saskatchewan

www.saskdocs.ca/work/family-physician---imgs

16
 CANADA

Internal Medicine Specialties

Most of the provisional and limited registrations above have been catered for IMGs who
would be practicing in the GP/ Family Medicine area. However, there are opportunities for
internists and those in various specialties of internal medicine as well. Importantly, they do
not need to be Canadian residents or citizens to be considered eligible to apply for
recognition in Canada as long as they undergo an assessment and pass an exam.
www.royalcollege.ca/rcsite/credentials-exams/exam-eligibility/assessment-routes-international-medical-graduates-e

College of Physician certifications

Despite the multiple pathways of entry into the Canadian healthcare system, residents and
non-residents, IMGs and North-America trained graduates all finally reach the last step
before enjoying the unrestricted licensure status by passing the certification exams of the
college of physicians.

This means that whether one has gone through the Canadian matching system to get
post-graduate training or used the unconventional path of provisional license or
supervised training outside of a university training program, ultimately they all have to
pass the college of physicians certification exams before they can practice freely.

1. College of Family Medicine : www.cfpc.ca/FMExam

2. Internal Medicine Specialties :

www.royalcollege.ca/rcsite/credentials-exams/certification-exams-e

Support Groups

Because of an ever changing regulatory landscape, it is important to find out about the
changes in the rules of the game as early as possible and one of the ways this is done is
by being part of support groups, whether through local activities or online forums. Here
are some websites that may be useful.

1. CanadaQBank Facebook Group : www.facebook.com/groups/CQBgroup

2. Alberta International Medical Graduates : www.aimga.ca
3. Association of International Medical Graduates of British Columbia : www.aimdbc.org
4. Healthcare providers network in Manitoba : www.mhpnetwork.ca/phys-img-csa.html

17
 Question Bank for the Medical Council of Canada Qualifying
Exam (MCCQE) Part 1

A subscription to the 'QBank for the MCCQE Part 1' contains access to both the MCQs and the CDM cases.

SUBJECTS
Medicine | Pediatrics | OBGYN |
Surgery | Psychiatry | Preventive
Medicine & Community
Health (PMCH)

NUMBER OF QUESTIONS
& CASES [3435]
[301]

Features of the MCQ QBank of the MCCQE Part 1

3435 of the best, classic, simulated MCQs for the MCCQE Part 1 Generate tests by subject, category, Dimensions of Care
examination and Physician Aspects

Each MCQ covers a different topic from the subject areas tested Take tests in timed, un-timed and tutor modes
on the MCCQE Part 1 Unused, incorrect only, or all question selections
Answers and detailed explanations for all questions
Choose how many questions you want to take in each block
Mark questions and write your own notes during the test
Review detailed analysis of MCCQE tests taken
Performance review by subject category
Revised and expanded with feedback from the most recent
Compare your scores with other users exams
Upgraded exam interface for true simulation, with normal lab Continuous updates to the questions and explanations
values
Accessible 24/7 from anywhere
Mark exam questions and write your own notes during the test Pass the MCCQE Part 1 - guaranteed or get 3 months free!

Features of the CDM QBank of the MCCQE Part 1

301 of the best, classic, simulated MCCQE Part 1 CDM cases 799 questions for the 301 CDM cases
Each CDM case covers a different topic from the subject areas Each CDM case has 2 - 4 questions
tested Answers and detailed explanations for all questions
Each question has an average of 2 - 7 correct answer options Generate tests by subject category or any combination
Take tests in timed, un-timed and tutor modes of categories

Unused, incorrect only, or all question selections Choose how many CDM cases you want to take in each
block
Mark exam questions and write your own notes during the test
Overall cumulative performance
Performance review by subject category
Upgraded CDM interface for true simulation, with normal lab
Compare your scores with other users values
Revised and expanded with feedback from the most recent
Continuous updates to the CDM cases and corresponding
exams questions
Accessible 24/7 from anywhere
Pass the MCCQE Part 1 - guaranteed or get 3 months free!

www.canadaqbank.com/mccqe-part1.php

C A N A D A
 Question Bank for the Medical Council of Canada Qualifying
Exam (MCCQE) Part 2

SUBJECTS
Medicine | Pediatrics | OBGYN |
Surgery | Psychiatry | Preventive
Medicine & Community
Health (PMCH)

NUMBER OF CASES
[168]

Features of the QBank of the MCCQE Part 2

168 of the very best, classic, simulated 84 Six-Minute Paired Station cases
MCCQE Part 2 cases
84 Fourteen-Minute Encounter Station
Questions and matching answers for
cases
all cases
Six-Minute Paired Station cases consist of
Each case covers a different topic from a six minute clinical encounter plus a six
the subject areas tested minute post-encounter probe (PEP)

Six-minute clinical encounter lists exactly Six-minute post-encounter probes show

what questions you must ask during your the examination questions and answers
history and what you should check during for each patient case
your physical examination
These cases also include the brief
Fourteen-Minute Encounter Station cases questions and answers that could be
list the relevant questions you must ask asked by the examiner during each
during your history and what you should patient scenario
check in your physical examination Revised and expanded with feedback
Upgraded MCCQE Part 2 template style from the most recent exams
for true simulation Continuous updates to the MCCQE
Part 2 cases
Bonus: 40 USMLE Step 2 CS Cases included
Accessible 24/7 from anywhere
Pass the MCCQE Part 2 guaranteed or get
3 months free!

www.canadaqbank.com/mccqe-part2.php

C A N A D A
 SAUDI ARABIA

Steps to becoming a licensed practicing physician

in Saudi Arabia
International Medical Graduates
Experience Matters
The kingdom of Saudi Arabia is open to IMGs, that is medical graduates who earned their
degrees outside of Saudi Arabia, but the positions that they can obtain depend more on
whether one has had specialized training or not and where that experience was acquired.
If one completed specialized training in Canada or the USA, then that person would be in
Tier one, which means that two years of experience after residency would open
opportunities for independent practice as an attending physician/consultant. For those
from Tier 2 countries such as India or Pakistan, they would need 6-8 years of experience
after residency to occupy the same position.

Cultural Awareness
As candidates prepare themselves to go to Saudi Arabia, they are likely to invest resources
in preparation regarding their medical practice readiness such as studying and passing for
exams, getting letters of recommendations, etc. But aspects of cultural awareness are just
as important as the technical aspects of such plans. It is important that you read as much
as possible about the dos and the don’ts of the Saudi Arabian culture. How do you behave
when you are invited as a guest to a friend’s house? What is the proper way to dress?
What are the boundaries between personal life and professional life? What is the role of
prayer in the society? What is the proper way to greet people you meet? All of these
things are important to be aware of before planning to move to Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Medical Licensing Exam (SMLE)

The SMLE consists of 300 multiple choice questions, and is 6 hours in length. The exam is
prepared by the ministry of education in collaboration with the ministry of health through
its Saudi Commission of Health Specialties (SCHS). Signing up for the exam should be
done at the SCHS Website: https://www.scfhs.org.sa/en/Pages/default.aspx

20
 SAUDI ARABIA

Exam Format

Internal Medicine, ObGyn, Pediatrics and Surgery account account for 180 of the total 300
questions. The exam consists of both recall questions as well as understanding and
applying concepts. This differs from Western exams which are strictly focused on applying
concepts. In the SMLE you are likely to encounter anatomy questions in which memorizing
parts of the body and their function may be helpful in answering some of the recall
questions.

Such a broad category of questions asked and the inclusion of recall questions may
explain the reason for the low pass rate of Saudi medical graduates. The pass rate among
Saudi Medical Graduates is 72%, which is considered low by Saudi medical graduates
themselves and local healthcare experts. The passing score was 150 questions correct and
it was increased to 180 questions correct in 2018. While there’s no data of the IMGs pass
rate, we do know that as of the end of 2019, there are 6,000 IMGs practicing in Saudi
Arabia right now.

The difference between Saudi Arabia and some Western countries is that there are two
attempts allowed for those who have passed the SMLE with a low score and wish to retake
the exam to achieve a higher score in order to boost their chances for residency selection.

IMGs may take the SMLE outside of Saudi Arabia at Prometric centers while Saudi Medical
Graduates take it inside Saudi Arabia. Once you sign up for the exam with the SCHC, you
will need to contact Prometric in the region you live to schedule an exam:
www.prometric.com

Residency Training In Saudi Arabia

IMGs can apply for residency training in Saudi Arabia if they have passed the SMLE. The
results are valid for a 5-year period for the purpose of residency application. At this time
there are 25 specialties offered. To be admitted into residency, there are 3 things that are
considered most, SMLE, which is marked at 50% in terms of value. The higher the score,
the more beneficial it will be. Medical school GPA accounts for 30%, and then there are
academic achievements and research projects which account for another 20%.

21
 SAUDI ARABIA

Extra-curricular activities such as medical missions, volunteering or medical conference

presentations are taken into consideration as well. Other requirements to be aware of
before applying for Saudi medical residency include completion of internship, CPR
certificate and a letter from your employer.

https://www.scfhs.org.sa/en/MESPS/TrainingProgs/Pages/default.aspx
https://www.scfhs.org.sa/en/examinations/Regulations/General%20Assessment%20Bylaws.pdf

Healthcare is 80% provided by the government either through the ministry of health or
other agencies and 20% by the private sector. There are 540 hospitals and over 3500
primary medical centers around the country. 415 of the total 540 hospitals are government
hospitals. Since government and healthcare is centralized in Saudi Arabia, the general
medical license obtained after passing SMLE, can be used to apply to healthcare facilities
throughout the country without needing to contact provincial authorities one by one.

UK NHS Medical Career Global website

www.medical.careers.global/jobs-for-doctors-in-saudi-arabia
GulfTalent
www.gulftalent.com
NaukriGulf
www.naukrigulf.com/physician-jobs-in-saudi-arabia
Doctor KSA
www.doctorksa.com/jobs/jobslist
Shine
www.shine.com/job-search/doctor-jobs-in-saudi-arabia

Saudi Arabia Medical Graduates

SMLE

Those who graduate from Saudi Arabian medical schools take the same licensing exam
(SMLE) as IMGs and they can sit for the exam after a one year internship, which is usually
done after graduating from medical school.

Clearing the SMLE opens the door to postgraduate training in the specialty of interest. It
also allows graduates to start practice as GPs if this is what they wish to pursue.

22
 Question Bank for the Saudi Medical Licensing Exam
(SMLE)

SUBJECTS
Anaesthesia/Critical Care
| Community Medicine |
Dermatology | Emergency Medicine
| ENT | Ethics and Research |
Family Medicine | General Surgery
| Internal Medicine | Obstetrics &
Gynaecology | Ophthalmology |
Pediatrics | Psychiatry

NUMBER OF QUESTIONS
[4255]

Features of the QBank of the SMLE

4255 of the very best, classic, simulated Each test prep question covers a
Multiple Choice Questions different SMLE topic from the subject
areas tested
Answers and detailed explanations for
all practice exam questions Take tests in timed, un-timed and tutor
modes
Generate tests by subject category or
any combination of categories Choose how many questions you want to
take in each block
Unused, incorrect only, or all question
selections Review detailed analysis of SMLE tests
taken
Mark questions and write your own
Compare your scores with other users
notes during the test

Performance review by subject category Revised and expanded with feedback

from the most recent exams
Real MCQ interface for true simulation,
Continuous updates to the questions and
with normal lab values
explanations
Overall cumulative performance Accessible 24/7 from anywhere

Pass the SMLE - guaranteed or get

3 months free!

www.canadaqbank.com/smle.php

SAUDI ARABIA
 UNITED KINGDOM

Steps to becoming a licensed practicing physician

in the United Kingdom
U.K. and European Medical Graduates
All UK medical graduates are required to undertake a two-year Foundation Program as
soon as they graduate from medical school. The Foundation Program is somewhat like an
extended internship program that they go through as they prepare for specialty training or
general practice training. Trainees get to have the opportunity to acquire experience in a
series of rotations in a variety of specialties and healthcare settings. As of the end of 2019,
it is unclear if the Brexit politics will affect EU doctors who want to practice in the U.K.

If it doesn’t affect them, then they would remain under the same rules as UK medical
graduates. If it does affect them, they may be considered as IMGs or another new
category could be created for them.

International Medical Graduates (IMGs)

This includes those who have graduated outside of the U.K. and the European Union (EU).

There are 5 entry pathways for IMGs to enter practice in the U.K. These 5 pathways can be
grouped into 2 categories:

1. Entering practice through medical licensing exams

There are 2 licensing exam systems in the UK. The PLAB and the MRCP.

PLAB

• The PLAB Part 1 and the PLAB Part 2.

To be registered to sit for the PLAB one has to file an application with the General
Medical Council (GMC): www.gmc-uk.org

24
 UNITED KINGDOM

The PLAB is the professional and linguistic assessment board. Before a candidate can sign
up for this exam, the academic IELTS should be taken. The recommended IELTS score to
practice medicine in the UK is 7.5. The PLAB Part 1 can be taken in many cities around
the world and does not have to be taken in the U.K. But the PLAB Part 2 must be taken
in the U.K.

To register for PLAB Part 1, you need to create an account at the GMC website and answer
questions about yourself and medical qualifications. You must provide evidence with a
scanned copy of your IELTS and diploma. A much more rigorous registration process with
ID check and diploma verification is completed later on after the PLAB Part 2 for formal
GMC registration as a physician who is getting started with medical practice in the UK.

The PLAB Part 1 consists of 180 questions taken in 3 hours in a multiple choice question
format. The PLAB Part 1 is given four times a year in the UK while internationally it is
available twice a year. Depending on which location a person lives, most people
recommend taking the PLAB Part 1 outside of the UK if the candidate requires a visa to
travel to U.K.

Sample PLAB Part 1 questions can be seen here:

www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/plab/plab-1-guide/sample-questions

The PLAB Part 2 is a clinical skills exam. In terms of style and difficulty, it is equivalent to
the Canadian NAC OSCE or the American USMLE Step 2 CS. It consists of 18 cases that
are 8 minutes long. It is considered to be equivalent to the same level of difficulty as the
first day of Foundation Year 2. As already explained, the FY is simply an extended
internship period that runs 2 years in the U.K. This means that the exam includes
management that would be considered fair for someone who is in a bridging program
from medical school getting ready for specialized training.

Once the PLAB Part 2 is complete, the candidate can apply for the Internal Medicine
training (IMT) Stage 1 program.

25
 UNITED KINGDOM

This is mandatory training for those who wish to go into sub-specialties later on.

Some people prefer to wait for the results of the PLAB Part 2 to start the GMC registration
process while others register after they take the PLAB Part 2 even before results come.

In any case, there will be a 1-2 month waiting period for GMC registration as the processing
of applications takes several weeks and the GMC requires an in-person visit for ID check at
their office. This is done for all candidates to verify the actual original medical diploma.

The U.K. in-person ID check is different from other countries where a notarized copy of
the original may be considered as equivalent to the original. Because booking an
appointment for I.D. check may require an extended wait time, many candidates prefer
to get the process started as soon as the PLAB Part 2 is completed.

To apply to join the UK Physician register, you can use the link below:

www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register

You will need to have a GMC online account and apply. You will be given the options to
register either as a GP or a specialist. An acceptable internship is usually
required.

In addition to the requirement of being registered with the GMC, you will also need to be
on the performer’s list in the UK country you wish to practice.

1. England: www.performer.england.nhs.uk

2. Wales: www.primarycareservices.wales.nhs.uk/apply-for-inclusion-in-the-medical-perfo

3. Northern Ireland: www.hscbusiness.hscni.net/services/1813.htm

4. Scotland: www.sehd.scot.nhs.uk/pca/PCA2016(M)04.pdf

26
 UNITED KINGDOM

The requirements to be on the UK register are:

→ Passport
→ Having an acceptable internship
→ Academic IELTS with a minimum 7.5
→ Medical Diploma
→ Providing proof of your professional experience in the last 5 years without leaving any
gaps.
→ Providing licenses or registrations you hold in other countries.
→ Certificate of good standing (CGS) from the professional supervising body of your last
practice, only a CGS issued within the last 3 months will be accepted.
→ You must declare fitness to practice - this is basically your health status.
→ Declare your legal background checks such as arrests or convictions
→ Make Payment

You do not need to have the final approval of registration with the GMC to apply for jobs.
As soon as your PLAB Part 2 results show that you passed and the application of
registration with the GMC has been submitted online, you are eligible to start applying
for jobs.

It must be noted that people who finished 3 years of residency abroad may be
automatically exempted from PLAB Part 1 and Part 2 and could get a GMC registration. If
there’s any confusion whether your postgraduate specialty training abroad will allow you
to skip the PLAB Part 1 and Part 2, you should contact GMC for clarification.

After passing the PLAB Part 2, a website that can be checked for jobs is the NHS
portal: www.jobs.nhs.uk

It contains advertisements of all the vacant physician jobs in the U.K.

MRCP

• The second type of exam is the MCRP and is a three step exam. MRCP simply stands for
Member of the Royal College of Physicians. This is basically for people who want to
undergo specialty training. Details here: www.mrcpuk.org/mrcpuk-examinations

27
 UNITED KINGDOM

If you passed the PLAB you can do GP jobs but you would need to pass the MRCP exam
to qualify for specialty training. If one finishes the Internal Medicine training (IMT) Stage 1
training and does not want to go further to become a consultant, then the MRCP is not
required.

The MRCPs are somehow considered more advanced than the PLABs and their
comparative exams on the west of the Atlantic ocean would be the CDMs in Canada for
MCCQE Part 1, MCCQE Part 2, and the USMLE step 3 in the United States.

The third component of the MRCP is also known as the PACES because it is a clinical
examination. The U.K. system provides a path for doctors who wish to skip the PLAB
to go straight to the MRCP. If a candidate is confident enough to follow this route, then
that should be considered a possibility. MRCP can be taken in 34 cities globally for the 2
written tests and 16 cities for the PACES.

Younger doctors who are recent graduates are usually encouraged to go through all the
steps one by one starting with the PLAB Part 1, but for those who have the requisite
knowledge and experience to jump to the MRCP, they may skip the PLAB as long as
they are able to pass all the 3 steps of MRCP. The 3 steps of MRCP count as a whole and
anyone who fails to pass one of its steps would still be required to pass PLAB. But if you
are successful with the MRCP route, then you can progress to Internal Medicine Stage 2
and Specialty training.

2. Entering practice without taking the UK medical licensing exams

There are 3 possibilities in this category:

• The first is a medical training initiative (MTI). This is really an exchange program for
doctors who are in specialty programs in other countries to do a period of their courses
in the UK to gain new experiences and then return back to their original countries to
complete their specialty training. The GMC interviews the doctors and provides the MTI
visa sponsorship:

www.rcplondon.ac.uk/education-practice/advice/medical-training-initiative

28
 UNITED KINGDOM

• The second option of entering UK medical practice without taking exams is having
acceptable postgraduate qualification. This means that if someone completed a residency
program abroad, it may be considered sufficient in the UK to start practice without having
to undergo the PLABs. The qualifications that are accepted tend to be those of country
with membership in the commonwealth:
www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/before-you-apply/acceptable-postgraduate-qualifications

• The third option is through a university-sponsored post-graduate training or research

project. If you have a relationship with a university or are interested in a university and
the department in which you want to do post-graduate training is interested in your
application, they may sponsor your GMC registration:

www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/before-you-apply/list-of-approved-sponsoring-bodies

Summary for the UK:

For IMGs:

• Must have at least one year of internship completed abroad that is acceptable to the UK
General Medical Council (GMC)
• Pass the PLAB Part 1 and the PLAB Part 2

• Obtain a GP training position (3 years) if the IMG wishes to work as a GP in the UK. At
the end of the 3 years of GP training those who are going to practice as a GP will also
have to pass the MRCGP exam:
https://www.rcgp.org.uk/training-exams/mrcgp-exam-overview.aspx

OR

• Obtain an Internal Medicine training (IMT) position (3 years) if the IMG wishes to work
as an internal medicine physician in the UK or later pursue specialist training (Cardiology,
Nephrology, Pulmonology etc).

29
 UNITED KINGDOM

OR

• Obtain a Core Surgery Training (CST) position (2 years) if the IMG wishes to work as a
surgeon in the UK or later pursue specialist training (Cardiothoracic surgery, Plastic
surgery, Vascular surgery etc).

Note:

• For IMGs who wish to specialize in a medical field, they must take the three MRCP exams
and then apply for a specialist training program. MRCP 1 is usually taken in the first year
of the IMT, MCRP 2 and 3 is usually taken after the second year of IMT.

• For IMGs who wish to specialize in a surgical field, they must take the MRCS exams and
then apply for a specialist training program.

For UK Medical Graduates:

• Foundation Years for 2 years

Then

• Internal Medicine Training (IMT) for 3 years

OR

• Core Surgical Training (CST) for 2 years

Then

• If the UK medical graduate wishes to specialize in a medical field, then they must pass
the three MCRP exams and apply for specialist training programs.

• If the UK medical graduate wishes to specialize in a surgical field, then they must pass
the MCRS exams and apply for specialist training programs.

30
 Question Bank for the Professional and Linguistics
Assessment Board (PLAB) Part 1

SUBJECTS
Medicine : Emergency Medicine,
X-RAY & ECG | Haematology |
Respiratory Medicine | Toxicology |
Cardiology | Pharmacology |
Endocrinology | Ophthalmology |
Nephrology | Ear, Nose and Throat |
Neurology | Infectious Diseases |
Genetics | Gastroenterology |
Rheumatology | Trauma and
Orthopeadics | Dermatology |
Anatomy | Oncology Pediatrics |
Obstetrics and Gynaecology | General
Surgery | Psychiatry | Epidemiology

NUMBER OF QUESTIONS
[3243]

Features of the QBank of the PLAB Part 1

3243 of the very best, classic, simulated Each test prep question covers a
Multiple Choice Questions different PLAB Part 1 topic from the
subject areas tested
Answers and detailed explanations for
all questions Take tests in timed, un-timed and tutor
modes
Generate tests by subject category or Choose how many questions you want to
any combination of categories take in each block

Unused, incorrect only, or all question Review detailed analysis of PLAB Part 1
selections tests taken
Compare your scores with other users
Mark questions and write your own
notes during the test Revised and expanded with feedback
from the most recent exams Continuous
Performance review by subject category
updates to the questions and
Upgraded exam interface for true explanations
simulation, with normal lab values Accessible 24/7 from anywhere
Overall cumulative performance Pass the PLAB Part 1 - guaranteed or get
3 months free!

www.canadaqbank.com/plab-part1.php

UNITED KINGDOM
 UNITED STATES

Steps to becoming a licensed practicing physician in

the United States
Going the route of a United states medical graduate
Taking the MCAT - Medical College Admission Test

Considering the extreme competition involved in gaining acceptance into a residency

program for international medical graduates, it is recommended that those who are able
to get into medical school in the United States try their best to go through this route first.

This is the only country where the medical school choice will be discussed in this
newsletter. The rate of matching into a residency program for graduates from a medical
school in the United States is around 95% while for international medical graduates the
rate is 50%-60%.

We are aware that there are many people who leave the United States and go to study in
the Caribbean or other locations and while this is a viable plan we recommend to
Americans to try to gain admission into a U.S. medical school as their first option.

This requires taking the MCAT and getting a high score. The score you obtain can
determine which medical school you get into. There are US medical schools that may
admit people who do not necessarily have high scores and/or do not have a traditional
pre-med major such as biology or chemistry.

We recommend one attempt for this test, even though those who do have two attempts
after a low performance can still get into medical school, it is quite difficult to do so.

The average MCAT score for accepted students is between 510-512, which is approx the
80th percentile of all MCAT takers.

Read more details here:

• www.magoosh.com/mcat/what-is-a-good-mcat-score

• www.aamc.org/system/files/c/2/462316-mcatguide.pdf

32
 UNITED STATES

Letters of Recommendation (LORs)

It is a common practice for those who apply to medical school in the US to go through
some type of shadowing experience. The clinic or hospital where the shadowing is done
doesn’t have to be the specialty the candidate wants to study eventually. It just shows
medical school admission committees that the candidate is serious about a medical
career and has had exposure to the field.

There are also those who get short term employment as assistants to professors, clerical
positions in health care facilities, research jobs in laboratories, etc. The common
denominator in those who succeed in the medical school application process is that one
not only has earned a bachelors degree in science with a GPA > 3.5 and has an MCAT
score > 510, but also has letters of recommendation from doctors in healthcare facilities
and/or letters of recommendation from research or teaching positions.

Going the route of an International Medical Graduate

Taking the medical licensing exams

Despite the difficulties of gaining admission into a residency (post-graduate training)

position in the USA, it is still one of the countries in the western world with a high
admission rate of IMGs into the healthcare system. Some IMGs have higher chances
than others. Location of graduation and years since graduation are some major factors
even before taking into consideration the scores of the US Medical Licensing Exams
(USMLEs).

It is preferable to aim to being < 3 years since graduation when applying for residency in
the USA. This means that the medical licensing exams have to be taken in a timely manner
if one is trying them after graduation. It is important to know that one does not need to
finish medical school before taking the USMLEs. After the 3rd year, a medical student
should start the process of taking and passing the USMLEs.

33
 UNITED STATES

Information about the USMLE: www.usmle.org and www.ecfmg.org

Registering for the USMLEs starts by creating an account at the ECFMG website. A set of
questions are asked such as the university where the candidate graduated from, date of
birth, languages the person speaks, etc. Once the application is complete, an identity
form with the picture of the candidate has to be completed and then mailed to the
medical school where the candidate attends or graduated from. Then the medical
school has to send the form to ECFMG.

During this time, ECFMG examines the documents the candidate has submitted such as a
notarized copy of the medical degree. For documents that are not in English, translations
with ECFMG approved translators are required. ECFMG initiates primary source
verification after examining the documents the candidate submitted and the identity form
from the medical school signed by the dean.

The verification tries to ascertain if the submitted documents such as transcripts and
degrees are indeed issued by the medical school to the candidate, how many years the
candidate attended, the credit hours, etc.

Once the verification is complete, ECFMG contacts the candidate to inform of the
successful completion of the eligibility check and then the candidate may proceed with
taking the USMLEs. It is possible that ECFMG may waive the final determination of
primary sourcing to allow the candidate who requests to hurry and take a USMLE
component, but ECFMG will usually require that this final determination is reached
eventually. No one can be ECFMG certified without completing primary source
verification.

The good thing about signing up with ECFMG is that Canada and many other countries
around the world use ECFMG verification services and if a candidate who has applied for
the USMLEs first wants to apply for Canadian exams, the verification process will be fast
because everything is already on record at ECFMG.

34
 UNITED STATES

It is agreed by most people that the USMLE step 1 is the hardest of all the exams while the
USMLE step 2 CK is easier. But since USMLE step 2 CK is easier, the scores people get are
much higher, which means in a competitive situation that the residency match is, it is
better for IMGs to aim for USMLE step 2 CK scores > 245. For the USMLE step 1 the
average score of IMGs who matched into a residency program is 233.

For more information about the residency match in the United States, please visit:
www.nrmp.org

Besides the USMLE step 1 and USMLE step 2 CK, which are computer tests, there is the
USMLE step 2 CS, which is a clinical exam. It is offered in 5 cities in the United States and
the application for the test is done through ECFMG website.

Step 2 :
Letters of Recommendation (LORs)

It is an unwritten rule that no matter how impressive USMLE scores an IMG has, a
residency slot cannot be obtained unless one has strong letters of recommendations. The
goal is to make the residency program directors feel at ease in offering a position, that
you are prepared for hands-on medical practice and have been observed by qualified and
licensed physicians as someone who would be trusted in such a position.

Letters of recommendations should be written by a physician who is in the same specialty

as the specialty the candidate is interested in applying for. Ideally obtained after
completing a clinical rotation during medical school.

Step 3 :
Residency Application

The application for residency is done through the ERAS which is an extension of the
AAMC: https://students-residents.aamc.org/applying-residency/article/myeras-application-residency-applicants

It is advised to start early when applying. Usually by July 15 to try to get the token and
register as well as get the photos done, letters of recommendations uploaded and
verified by ECFMG.

35
 UNITED STATES

The goal is to make sure the application is ready to be sent before September 15 when
the season of applications begins. It is recommended to apply to as many residency
programs as possible on the first day of the application season because some programs
tend to focus on those who applied earliest as people who are probably more interested
in that particular program.

The National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) recommends as many applications as a

candidate will be able to afford. The lower the USMLE scores, the higher the number of
applications that may be needed to be seen by many programs so that one has a chance
to get interviewed at some of them. Ideally 100 applications are considered the average
number IMGs apply to.

It is also advised to check the websites of the residency programs one wants to apply to,
especially checking the type of candidates who matched there in the previous 3 years.
This can give an idea of which programs are worth investing in and which programs that
may not be worthwhile. It is important to sign up for both ERAS and NRMP because the
NRMP is where the matching takes place.

In the event that a candidate has not received successful interviews or matched at any
program, being signed up with NRMP allows a candidate to have access to “left overs”
which are usually given as part of the "supplemental offer acceptance program"(SOAP).
Some call the 2nd week of March as the "scrambling period" as thousands of residency
applicants try to compete for those spots that did not match into a program.

Many people with fair scores who send applications to these programs and who are alert
to their phone and e-mails and respond in a timely fashion, get accepted into residency
during that week. It tends to require a 100% commitment because such applicants are in
a “begging mode” and if one receives a phone call and misses to answer, it may be
the only time such a call is made. Most of the positions given in SOAP are filled within
24-48 hours.

36
 UNITED STATES

Step 3 :
USMLE Step 3

The final exam in the US medical licensing exam series is the USMLE step 3 and it does not
have to be taken before residency. But depending on how much one is confident about
the progress made before the residency application, it may be beneficial as an 'add on'
for those who may struggle to get in. Therefore it is recommended that IMGs take and
pass the USMLE step 3 before residency.

Especially those IMGs who did not perform well in top percentiles in the previous exams.
Applications for this exam are sent to the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB).
For those who have not matched into a residency program taking and passing the
USMLE step 3 can be a way to prove that one is highly knowledgeable when applying for
residency again. For information about the USMLE step 3, visit: www.fsmb.org

Step 4 :
Medical Practice

Once one has completed residency, there is the board certification exam that is done for
each specialty. Those exams are given by the respective medical speciality board:
https://www.abms.org/member-boards/specialty-subspecialty-certificates

Each state in the U.S. has their own requirements for practice. Here are the state
medical boards that can be contacted for more information about requirements for
obtaining a medical license: www.fsmb.org/contact-a-state-medical-board

37
 Question Bank for the United States Medical Licensing Exam
(USMLE) Step 1

SUBJECTS
Anatomy | Biochemistry |
Embryology | Epidemiology and
Biostatistics | Ethics | Genetics |
Histology/Molecular Biology |
Microbiology & Immunology |
Neuroscience | Pathology &
Pathophysiology | Pharmacology
| Physiology | Psychology

NUMBER OF QUESTIONS
[3017]

Features of the QBank of the USMLE Step 1

3017 classic, simulated USMLE Step 1 Each test prep question covers a
multiple choice questions (MCQs) different USMLE Step 1 topic from
the subject areas tested
Answers and detailed explanations for
all questions Take tests in timed, un-timed and tutor
modes
Generate tests by subject category or
any combination of categories Choose how many questions you want to
take in each block
Unused, incorrect only, or all question
selections Review detailed analysis of USMLE Step 1
tests taken
Mark questions and write your own
Compare your scores with other users
notes during the test

Performance review by subject category Revised and expanded with feedback

from the most recent exams
Upgraded MCQ interface for true
Continuous updates to the questions and
simulation, with normal lab values
explanations
Overall cumulative performance Accessible 24/7 from anywhere

Pass the USMLE Step 1 - guaranteed

or get 3 months free!

www.canadaqbank.com/usmle-step1.php

UNITED STATES
 Question Bank for the United States Medical Licensing Exam
(USMLE) Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK)

SUBJECTS
Medicine : Immune System | Blood &
Lymphoreticular Systems |
Behavioral Health | Nervous System &
Special Senses | Skin & Subcutaneous
Tissue | Musculoskeletal System |
Cardiovascular System | Respiratory
System | Gastrointestinal System |
Renal & Urinary Systems | Endocrine
System Pediatrics
OBGYN
Pregnancy, Childbirth, & the
Puerperium Female Reproductive System & Breast Male Reproductive System
Surgery
Psychiatry
Preventive Medicine & Community Health (PMCH)
Multisystem Processes & Disorders | Biostatistics & Epidemiology/Population Health Interpretation
of the Medical Literature

NUMBER OF QUESTIONS
[3989]

Features of the QBank of the USMLE Step 2 CK

3989 of the very best, classic, simulated Multiple Each test prep question covers a different USMLE
Choice Questions Step 2 CK topic from the subject areas tested
Answers and detailed explanations for all questions Take tests in timed, un-timed and tutor modes
Generate tests by subject category or any Choose how many questions you want to take in
combination of categories each block
Unused, incorrect only, or all question selections Review detailed analysis of USMLE Step 2 CK
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Mark questions and write your own notes during
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Performance review by subject category Revised and expanded with feedback from the
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Overall cumulative performance Accessible 24/7 from anywhere
Pass the USMLE Step 2 CK - guaranteed or get
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 INSTITUTIONAL SUBSCRIPTIONS

CanadaQBank.com offers institutional discounts

for access to our online question banks. We offer
subscriptions to all institutions, including: Licensing
Authorities and Colleges, Medical Schools, Medical
Colleges, Medical Libraries, Residency Programs,
Teaching Hospitals, Associations/ Federations/
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CanadaQBank.com is very user friendly and is fully web-based. There are no heavy
books and students access the system immediately from any computer with
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Our QBanks contain the very best and most specific questions and cases for the
AMC CAT, MCCQE, PLAB, SMLE and the USMLE.

We have built a strong reputation since launching our website in 2008, as an

excellent web-based test preparation service for the AMC CAT, MCCQE, PLAB,
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We offer a complete service for anyone preparing for the AMC CAT, MCCQE,
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Benefits of Institutional Subscriptions

Significant reduction in pricing for your members and unlimited usage of
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Client List
CanadaQBank.com is very proud to provide institutional subscriptions to the
following Institutions:

Fédération médicale étudiante HANDA MEDICAL Immigrant Services

AEAMUM AGÉÉMUS
du Québec GROUP Association of Nova Scotia

MEDICAL STUDENTS’ SOCIETY REGROUPEMENT DES ÉTUDIANTS EN

University Kuala Lumpur MedSckool
OF MCGill University ÉDECINE DE L'UNIVERSITÉ LAVA

Northern Ontario School CARIBBEAN MEDICAL UNVIERSITY UNIVERSITY COLLEGE CORK,

CLINICAL ACADEMY
of Medicine School of Medicine IRELAND

KING ABDULAZIZ THE UNIVERSTIY OF UNIVERSITY OF Ontario Medical Students

UNIVERSITY QUEENSLAND WOLLONGOND Association

Canadian Federation of Royal College of Surgeons Armed Forces College

The University of Manchester Of Medicine
Medical Students in Ireland - Bahrain

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 OUR MOBILE APPS

We have mobile applications for the following medical licensing exams:

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PLAB Part 1 (United Kingdom), RCSFE (Canada), SMLE (Saudi Arabia),
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Download our apps here: www.canadaqbank.com/applications.php

App for IOS Devices & Android & Windows Devices

App for the App for the App for the App for the
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RCSFE SMLE USMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 2 CK USMLE Step 2 CS

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 VIDEOS

Watch Our Videos On YouTube

View over 300 Instructional Tutorial Videos about high yield topics tested
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