How to Register on the ECFMG Website: A Technical Step-by-Step for Brazilian Physicians
Certification by the ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates) is one of the main requirements for physicians trained outside the United States to be able to apply for medical residency (residency) or other clinical positions in the country. The registration process can seem complex at first glance, especially for Brazilian physicians not familiar with the American system. This technical guide aims to clarify, in an objective and formal manner, the step-by-step necessary to complete the initial registration on the ECFMG website.
1. Understanding the purpose of the ECFMG
The ECFMG is the entity responsible for validating international medical credentials and allowing foreign physicians to participate in the selection process for medical residency programs in the USA. Certification involves multiple stages, including verification of the medical diploma, passing the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) Step 1, Step 2 CK, and, until 2024, Step 2 CS (currently discontinued), among other documentary requirements.
2. Initial access to the ECFMG system: OASIS and IWA
The first step for any candidate is registration in the OASIS (Online Applicant Status and Information System) system, through the IWA (Interactive Web Applications) portal. This will be the primary interface for registering for exams, tracking the status of document verification, and submitting the necessary information.
Steps:
Go to the website: https://www.ecfmg.org
In the top menu, click on “Applicants” and then on “Apply for ECFMG Certification”.
You will be redirected to the IWA environment.
Click on "IWA - Interactive Web Applications" and select the "ECFMG Certification" option.
3. Creating an ECFMG account / ECFMG Number
Before starting the registration process, it will be necessary to obtain an ECFMG number. To do so:
Click on "I don't have a USMLE/ECFMG Identification Number".
Fill out the form with your personal information exactly as it appears on your passport (full name, date of birth, country of birth, etc).
After submitting the form, the ECFMG number (a unique 7-digit identifier) will be generated. Write down and store this number securely.
4. Starting the application for ECFMG certification
After obtaining the ECFMG number, proceed with the registration for the ECFMG Certification:
Log in to the IWA with your ECFMG number and password.
Accept the terms and conditions of use.
Start the application for ECFMG Certification.
Carefully fill out the fields about your medical training, educational institution, enrollment and graduation dates, and academic history.
Important: Correct choice of the school and eligibility verification:
The medical school must be listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools with the note “Meets eligibility requirements for ECFMG Certification”.
Brazilian schools are generally eligible, but it is essential to check this information directly in the directory.
5. Payment of the registration fee
The application fee for ECFMG certification varies according to the current exchange rate, and is paid via international credit card directly in the IWA.
This fee is distinct from the USMLE exam fees, which will be charged later.
6. Documentation: Form 186
To validate your identity and your status as a medical student or graduate, the ECFMG requires the submission of Form 186.
Form 186 is completed electronically through the IWA.
Depending on your status (student or graduated physician), the form may need to be signed electronically by an authorized representative of your school (via the EPIC system) or be submitted physically with notarized signature and Hague apostille.
Since 2022, most Brazilian schools are already authorized to use the electronic system. Confirm this in the IWA itself during registration.
7. Validation of the diploma and transcripts (after graduation)
After obtaining the diploma, it will be necessary to submit a certified copy of the following documents:
Medical school graduation diploma.
Complete medical academic transcript.
Official sworn translation (if requested by the ECFMG).
These documents are submitted via the EPIC (Electronic Portfolio of International Credentials) system, in conjunction with the ECFMG, which will be responsible for verification directly with the university.
8. Next steps: registration for the USMLE exams
With the ECFMG certification in progress and the documentation validated, the physician will already be able to register for USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK through the same system (IWA). Registration for the exams involves scheduling with Prometric centers and paying additional fees.
Final considerations
The ECFMG registration process demands rigorous attention to details, deadlines, and documentary requirements. It is highly recommended that Brazilian physicians plan in advance, organize all academic documentation, and familiarize themselves with the ECFMG systems (IWA and EPIC). A well-done registration is the first step toward securing a medical residency position in the United States — an achievable goal, but one that requires technical preparation, perseverance, and commitment.
Practical tip: always keep a digital copy of all submitted documents, frequently track the status of each stage in the IWA, and subscribe to the ECFMG newsletters for updates.