Florida International University (FIU) Clinical Elective Rotations: Tips for Applying

What can I do during the FIU Clinical elective rotation? 

Students will be able to "collaborate, learn, and develop critical skills through clinical experiences with distinguished faculty members of Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine", as mentioned on FIU's website. Students will be able to learn about the US healthcare system and various medical specialties through "high-quality teaching, state-of-the-art research, cutting-edge technology, and innovative medical practices".

Who is eligible?

Applicants must be in their clinical years of medical school and must be fluent in English. Of note, TOEFL is not required to take part in the program and applications must be submitted no later than 4 months prior to the start date of the elective. Students are encouraged to obtain a B-1/B-2 visa.

How long is the elective rotation?

All elective rotations are 4-week experiences and students can rotate for a maximum of 12 weeks total. The rotations start on the first Monday of every month. It is recommended that you contact their offices for start dates in November, December, and January. g

How to apply for the FIu clinical elective rotation?

Applicants can apply It is recommended to confirm availability in advance on specific rotations before submitting the application. All applicants must submit the application form, a CV, transcripts, a form about what to expect during the experience, and pay the $300 nonrefundable application fee. Applicants can access the application form online here. All required documents must be submitted via email to int.med@fiu.edu and will not be reviewed until the application fee is received.

Which specialties are available? 

• Cardiology

• Emergency Medicine

• Family Medicine

• Gastroenterology

• Gastroenterology - Pediatrics

• General Pediatrics

• General Surgery

• Infectious Diseases

• Internal Medicine

• Nephrology

• Neurology

• OBGYN

• Orthopedics Surgery

• Pain Management

• Podiatry

• Psychiatry

• Pulmonology

• Radiology

What is the cost?

There is a non-refundable application fee of $300 for all applications. The cost for a 4-week elective rotation is $3,000, which can be paid via link and/or electronic wire once the rotation is confirmed.

How will this help me for residency?

Taking part in the FIU clinical elective rotation program will allow you to add valuable clinical experience and a letter of recommendation to your residency application. You will also be able to hone in on your clinical skills and learn about how care is administered in the US healthcare system. You'll also learn how the medical team collaborates to provide patient care.

Will I receive a letter of recommendation? 

Each student will receive a letter of recommendation. The letter will be written based on the student's performance during the elective rotation. Additionally, it is mentioned that you'll received a clinical evaluation from the preceptors. The student has the option to decline the right to see the letter or receive the letter directly. If the student declines the right to see the letter, it will be sent to the office and the student will be notified when it is received. It's stated that the LOR will be saved on the student's file for five years.

Of note, the LOR will not be on FIU letterhead but it will state that the student completed the rotation through FIU's International Visiting Medical Student program. The type of letterhead will depend on the preceptors affiliation.

Is housing or transportation included?

No - the student will be responsible for organizing and paying for their own housing and transportation.

What is the selection process?

Students are selected based on their qualifications and abilities. They specifically state that they are seeking "highly motivated and responsible students" for their program.

Can I cancel?

Yes - however, per rotation canceled, a 10% penalty of the rotation cost will be incurred. However, cancellations 59-31 days before the start date will incur a 50% fee of the program cost. Cancellations 30 days or less before the start date will receive no refund. It is noted that cancellation fees are based upon the date the written request is received by FIU.

Where can you find more information?

You can contact int.med@fiu.edu via email for more information about the program.