Did You Know? 1 in 4 US MDs Are International Medical Graduates

Thinking about going to medical school outside the US? You’re in good company. Nearly 25 percent of practicing physicians in the United States are international medical graduates (IMGs), according to the Association of American Medical Colleges. That’s one in four physicians who earned their MDs at schools like WAUSM and others around the world.

What’s an IMG?

An international medical graduate, or IMG, is someone who earned their medical degree outside the US or Canada. Some are US citizens who chose to study abroad, while others come from countries all over the world to train and practice in the US.

They bring global perspectives, unique clinical experiences, and a lot of heart to American healthcare.

Why It Matters

The US needs more doctors, especially in primary care and rural areas. IMGs help bridge those gaps. According to the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), IMGs filled 44.6% of internal medicine residency positions in 2025. And in family medicine, they consistently make up over 30% of residents based on stats from MatchAResident.

IMGs Bring the Experience

According to NRMP’s Charting Outcomes report, IMGs report more clinical experiences and research publications than their US medical graduate counterparts when applying for residency. That means they’re not just qualified, they’re often highly accomplished before they even start residency.

WAUSM’s Provost Says It Best

Dr. Paula Wales, WAUSM’s Provost and COO, notes that international medical graduates are not just filling gaps – they are elevating the standard of care. Their diverse backgrounds and global training experiences enrich the clinical environment and improve patient outcomes.

But What About the Stigma?

Dr. Wales has worked at four very different medical schools: a large US public school, Indiana University School of Medicine; a large international school, Ross University School of Medicine; a small private US school, Nova Southeastern; and now WAUSM.

“I think there’s no question that some people think there’s a stigma, which I don’t understand because I’ve seen students in all four of those places. If you stop for a moment, one in four physicians in the United States are international medical graduates. One in four. And that’s what’s pretty powerful. You don’t know where they went to medical school, but you do know if they’re good, caring physicians.”

She adds, “WAUSM is committed to producing graduates who are not only ready to match into competitive residency programs, but who will thrive as compassionate, skilled physicians.”

What’s the Takeaway?

As you consider your medical school options, know this: you’re not alone, and you’re not at a disadvantage. You’re part of a powerful, growing group of doctors who are shaping the future of healthcare in the US.