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Become a member and receive career-enhancing benefits

Our top priority is providing value to members. Your Member Services team is here to ensure you maximize your ACS member benefits, participate in College activities, and engage with your ACS colleagues. It's all here.

Become a Member
Become a member and receive career-enhancing benefits

Our top priority is providing value to members. Your Member Services team is here to ensure you maximize your ACS member benefits, participate in College activities, and engage with your ACS colleagues. It's all here.

Become a Member
ACS

International Medical Graduate Forum

Start your surgical training in the United States with confidence, clarity, and support

Support Your Transition into US Surgical Residency

Beginning surgical residency in a new healthcare system presents unique professional, academic, and cultural challenges. The American College of Surgeons (ACS) and Association of Program Directors in Surgery (APDS) are pleased to offer a new virtual program, the International Medical Graduate (IMG) Forum, designed specifically to support incoming international general surgery PGY-1 residents. 

The IMG Forum is a pilot initiative that brings together surgical educators, program leaders, and current residents to provide practical guidance and shared perspectives to help you start residency with confidence.

Who Should Attend

  • International medical graduates (IMGs) entering US surgical training programs in June/July 2026

About the Forum

This virtual forum focuses on the transition into US surgical training, combining faculty insight with participant engagement. The program emphasizes:

  • Understanding expectations of PGY-1 residents in US training programs
  • Navigating clinical responsibilities, communication, and team dynamics
  • Recognizing cultural and system-based differences in surgical practice
  • Identifying strategies for early success and professional growth
  • Utilizing practical resources for acclimating to living in the US

The session will conclude with a live Q&A with current PGY-1 IMGs and faculty to address participant questions.

What to Expect

Participants will benefit from:

  • Faculty-led discussions from program directors, faculty, and residency staff
  • Practical insights on clinical expectations and day-to-day workflow
  • Guidance on communication and professionalism within surgical teams
  • Opportunities for engagement, including live Q&A
  • Resources to help start residency strong

Secure your place in this pilot program.

Register Now

Program Details

Date: Thursday, June 4, 2026
Time: 8:00–11:00 am CT, 1:00–4:00 pm GMT
Location: Zoom
Cost: Complimentary

Contact

For questions about this program, please contact:

Andrew Miles, MFA
Program Administrator
amiles@facs.org