Nephrology Fellowship Frequently Asked Questions

Do you sponsor visas for international medical graduates (IMGs)?

Yes. The Program sponsors J-1 visas.

Is clinical or research experience in the United States required to apply?

No. We do not require clinical or research experience in the United States. However, this type of experience can strengthen an application.

Do you offer clinical shadowing, observerships, externships, or similar experiences?

No. We do not offer clinical shadowing, observerships, externships, or similar experiences through the LVHN Nephrology Fellowship.

What are the minimum passing scores for USMLE Step I and Step II for application to the program?

Applicants must have passing scores on USMLE Step I and Step II to apply to the Program.

Is USMLE Step III required for application to the Program?

Yes. Applicants must have a passing score on USMLE Step III to apply to the Program.

Do you have an on-site kidney transplant program?

Yes. Lehigh Valley Health Network has an active Kidney and Liver Transplant Program at our main teaching hospital, which performs approximately 150 kidney transplants each year.

Do you accept residents from international, non-Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME)-approved internal medicine residency programs?

Yes. We consider applicants who have completed three years of internal medicine residency training at non-ACGME-approved residency programs. A letter of recommendation from the residency program director is required.