Resources for International Medical Graduates (RFS)

Resources for International Medical Graduates

Prepared by members of the Canadian Association of Radiologists Resident & Fellow Section Executive Committee

Updated January 2025

Contributor information:
Kaitlin M. Zaki-Metias, MD, FRCPC | Clinical Fellow, Western University
John D. Karp, MD | PGY-3, University of Pennsylvania
Serguei Medvedev, MD | PGY-5, Trinity Health Oakland/Wayne State University

The Resources for International Medical Graduates document is an introductory resource for internationally trained radiologists seeking information on practicing clinical radiology in Canada. The target population of this document are Canadians who trained abroad and non-Canadians who are currently practicing radiology abroad.

This first portion of the document outlines the steps required to write the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Diagnostic Radiology examination. This includes determining eligibility depending on the trainees/radiologist’s background, applying for and registering to write the examination, and details pertaining to exam date, exam components and exam preparation.

The second potion of the document describes the basic requirements for all internationally trained radiologists seeking to practice in Canada. This includes the steps needed to complete the Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination (MCCQE) Part 1 examination and achieve the Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC).

There is a brief section on pursuing radiology fellowship in Canada.

The remainder of the document outlines provincial-based requirements and pathways for internationally trained radiologists.

Disclaimer: Please note that the information presented in this document is based on current policy as of the above “updated” date and is subject to change. Attempts will be made to update this document periodically as information changes. Requirements may vary between jurisdictions. Please verify your eligibility and requirements with the governing body in your jurisdiction of interest.

National Resources

Why take the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada Diagnostic Radiology certification examination?

The purpose of the exam is to assess the candidate’s clinical competence and readiness to enter clinical practice. The diagnostic radiology exam is offered once annually in the spring.

Many provinces and territories require Royal College certification for registration for independent practice. Some provinces and territories may offer restricted licenses which require supervision to practice, and others are beginning to offer streamlined pathways for those with American board certification. Explore the options most suitable for your situation and training with the College of Physicians and Surgeons in the province or territory in which you plan to practice.

Determine your eligibility

If eligible, apply for an assessment of your training.

Apply for assessment of training
- Apply for training assessment before April 30th of the year before you wish to take the exam and pay the applicable fees

Register for the exam
- Register before November 4th of the year before you plan to take the exam
- Pay the applicable fees

Exam Date
- Exact dates will differ year to year.
- For example, in 2025, the exams will take place in the early spring/summer

LMCC

Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC) is granted by the Medical Council of Canada (MCC) and is part of the requirements set by the provincial and territorial medical regulatory authorities (MRAs) to be granted licence to practice medicine in their respective jurisdictions.

Requirements include (full details can be found in the link below):

Graduate from an approved medical school
Pass the MCC Qualifying Examination (MCCQE) Part 1
Complete 12 months of approved postgraduate clinical training
Verification of training credentials (medical school and postgraduate degrees)
Pay the LMCC fee

MCCQE Part 1

National standard in Canada assessing candidates’ medical knowledge, skills, and abilities at a level expected of a student completing their medical degree in Canada.
The exam is a computer-based exam and consists of MCQ and SAQ.
The examination is based on the MCC Examination Objectives, which are organized under the CanMEDS roles.

Fellowship Application Resources

There are various fellowship opportunities in Canada. Applications for fellowship programs vary, with most opening in the spring or early summer of your PGY-3 year. Fellowship applications close for most fellowships in September or October (every program has their own timeline). Interviews are typically extended in late September and early October but varies from program to program. Positions may be offered one to two weeks following the interview, although some programs may take up to a month. For a list of available fellowships, please visit the following resource:

The following documents are required to apply to most fellowship programs: a cover letter, personal statement, curriculum vitae, a copy of medical degree and specialty degree (though this varies for each program), and three reference letters.

Canadian Fellowship Opportunities

Provincial Resources

Alberta

College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA)

Alberta Society of Radiologists (ASR)

The Alberta Society of Radiologists is a volunteer, not-for-profit organization proudly representing the majority of Alberta’s radiologists and radiology residents.

British Columbia

College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC)

British Columbia Radiological Society (BCRS)

We are a non-profit professional organization representing radiologists who practice in British Columbia.

Resident-related Resources

Manitoba

College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba (CPSM)

Manitoba Association of Radiologists (MAR):

Please contact the CAR to get in touch with the MAR.

More information on the different pathways to obtaining a medical license in Nova Scotia
NS accepts US board certification
More information on licensure