You can apply year-round. Applications must be submitted at least 6 months prior to your opportunity start date.

All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing via email to observer@uab.edu. 

Cancellation Terms

1. Observer-Initiated Cancellations
   • More than 60 days before the start date:
     • If the cancellation is due to a U.S. visa denial by the U.S. Embassy, and the observer submits proof of visa application and official denial, a refund of the observership fee will be issued, minus administrative processing fees.
     • Note: The inability to obtain a Visa appointment with the U.S. Embassy within time to receive Visa prior to Observership start date does not qualify under this cancelation policy for Visa refusal.
   • Less than 60 days before the start date:
     • No refund will be issued. The full observership fee is non-refundable.
2. No-Shows and Withdrawals
   • No refund will be provided for voluntary withdrawal or failure to participate on or after the scheduled start date.
3. Failure to Complete Pre-Arrival Requirements
   • If the observer fails to respond to communication or complete the required pre-arrival documentation at least two weeks before the start date, this will be treated as a cancellation. No refund will be issued.
4. Program-Initiated Cancellations
   • If the UAB host physician or department cancels the observership, and the observer declines an alternative date, a full refund of the observership fee will be provided.
   • The $350 application fee remains non-refundable under all circumstances.
5. Conduct Violations
   • Observers who demonstrate unprofessional behavior, violate UAB policies, or otherwise fail to adhere to program expectations may be removed from the program without refund.

UAB International Medical Education follows the advice of the U.S. Department of State and Foreign Affairs Manual followed by the U.S. consulates and embassies (FAM) in recommending that students participating in the IVMO Programenter the United States on a B-1/B-2 Visa with passport stamp for B-1 (Business) per the S. Department of State and Foreign Affairs Manual - section - 9 FAM 402.2-5(E) (3) (U).

If you are an international medical graduate, then yes, you can apply for the IVMO program.

No, the visiting observer is responsible for locating and paying for lodging and transportation for the duration of their opportunity at UAB.

IVMO is a program designed for international medical graduates who, upon acceptance, will be entered into a pool of applicants for matching with a UAB Medicine host. IVS Observers are invited to observe by a UAB faculty member.

If your application fails to match after 60 days of acceptance, your application will be removed from the applicant pool, and you will need to reapply for further consideration.

No, rejected applications will not be eligible for resubmission.