? re Prague and Krakow/Warsaw

[sidneyaz]

I am in the process of deciding between Prague, Krakow, and Warsaw. Are there any advantages of one over the other. I will be going for the 6 year program. I may decide to take the pre-reqs in the states and then go for a 4 year program, and that will obviously eliminate Charles. But I like Charles and they are my favorite for the 6 year program, my probable route.

I know that Charles is recognized in California. What specifically does that mean? Does that mean that I don't have to sit for the ECFMG? I am somewhat confused. Also, what is the better program for North Americans? My understanding is that Jag and Warsaw are the best programs in Poland and First Faculty is the place to be in CR. Which city is the better of the three for Americans?

Thank you for your help.

[Miklos]

I am in the process of deciding between Prague, Krakow, and Warsaw. Are there any advantages of one over the other. I will be going for the 6 year program. I may decide to take the pre-reqs in the states and then go for a 4 year program, and that will obviously eliminate Charles. But I like Charles and they are my favorite for the 6 year program, my probable route.

I know that Charles is recognized in California. What specifically does that mean? Does that mean that I don't have to sit for the ECFMG? I am somewhat confused. Also, what is the better program for North Americans? My understanding is that Jag and Warsaw are the best programs in Poland and First Faculty is the place to be in CR. Which city is the better of the three for Americans?

Thank you for your help.

Currently, among those three, only Charles is recognized by the state of California. California's law on licensing IMGs is written in such a way, that unless a school is recognized one can never do clinical rotations/residency or attain licensure.

Regarding the examinations (the ECFMG administers the USMLE to IMGs; it is the same exam US grads take), everyone must pass the USMLEs. It is important for both licensure and gaining a residency position.

As far as opinions regarding the individual programs, I'm sure that others will chime in. I recommend that you avoid agents and spend the time and money to visit the schools in person before you commit. As you are looking at an investment time and money (well over $100k), IMO you need to do due diligence. No one on this forum (or elsewhere) can replace the information you gain by visiting the schools yourself.

Good luck.

Miklos