If you’re passionate about global health or want to see if working abroad is for you, the International Federation of Medical Students’ Association (IFMSA) has the perfect opportunity.
🤔 What is IFMSA?
Founded in 1951, the IFMSA aims to improve global health via medical education and international public collaboration. It provides fantastic opportunities for students to engage in professional exchanges and research projects, encouraging future healthcare leaders with a global perspective.
🤝 What is the IFMSA Student Exchange Program?
Each year, over 15,000 medical students join the exchange, gaining valuable clinical and research experience.
The program offers two main types of exchanges:
- Clinical Exchange (SCOPE): Hands-on clinical experience in a different healthcare system.
- Research Exchange (SCORE): Participation in international research projects.
These four-week exchanges provide exposure to different medical practices and cultures worldwide, perfect for a medical elective project or summer vacationship.
Please note, this programme is also endorsed by the World Federation of Medical Education (WFME), the Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS), and the World Organization of Family Doctors (WONCA).
🤷 What to Expect?
Students are placed in a department or research project of their choice and provided with accommodation, mentorship, and often social activities too! You’ll also receive a student handbook to track your goals and achievements and a certificate once you’ve completed the programme (provided you’ve fulfilled the programme requirements, maintained at least an 80% attendance and completed the handbook).
🙋 What’s in it For Me?
- Expand Clinical and Research Skills: Learn new medical practices and methodologies.
- Cultural Exchange & Networking: Get to know different medical systems and network with new colleagues.
- Develop Soft Skills: Enhance your communication, team-working and adaptability skills.
- Affordable & Accessible: The application process is managed by other students, with lots of financial support options.
💰 Financial Support Options
Participating in an exchange can be a significant financial commitment, but various funding opportunities can help offset some costs:
- University Grants & Scholarships: Many medical schools offer funding for international electives or research placements, get in touch with your medical school to see what is available.
- IFMSA Support & Discounts: Some National Member Organisations (NMOs) provide reduced fees or financial aid for some students.
- External Scholarships: Organisations like the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, Erasmus+, and local government funding bodies offer support for international study programs. Likewise, Royal Colleges and other medical organisations often have funding available.
💻 How to Apply?
Students must apply through their National Member Organisation (NMO). The process includes:
- Checking eligibility and selecting a destination.
- Submitting an application with required documents.
- Completing the matching process.
- Undergoing pre-departure training.
📚 What Sort of Training Will I Receive?
- Cultural Preparation: Understanding the healthcare system and cultural norms of the host country.
- Medical Ethics & Professionalism: Guidance on ethical considerations, patient confidentiality, and local medical practices.
- Clinical or Research Orientation: Overview of what to expect for your specific placement.
- Language Preparation: Learn basic medical phrases in the local language, if applicable.
- Logistics & Safety: Tips and tricks whilst travelling and advice on health insurance, vaccinations, and emergency contacts.
- Paperwork & Requirements: Help ensuring all documents, such as visas and immunisation records, are in order.
💭 Final Thoughts
The IFMSA Exchange Program is an incredible opportunity to gain medical experience abroad while building global connections. If you’re ready to explore healthcare beyond borders, apply today!
If you have any other questions feel free to read the FAQs or contact gs@ifmsa.org for more information!
