The IFMSA Exchange Programme offers medical students worldwide the opportunity to participate in international clinical and research exchanges. These exchanges are facilitated through two main programs:

• SCOPE (Standing Committee on Professional Exchange): Focuses on clinical clerkships in various medical specialties.
  
  
• SCORE (Standing Committee on Research Exchange): Centers on research projects in medical and biomedical fields.
  
  

Each exchange provides students with a four-week immersive experience, allowing them to gain practical skills, understand different healthcare systems, and engage in cultural exchange. ifmsa.org

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Location (Country/City)

The program operates in over 100 countries, with specific locations varying based on bilateral agreements between National Member Organizations (NMOs). Participants can choose from a diverse range of destinations, including but not limited to:

• Europe: Germany, Italy, Lithuania
  
  
• Asia: Jordan, Korea
  
  
• Africa: Nigeria, Morocco
  
  
• Americas: Ecuador, United States
  
  

Specific cities and institutions depend on the hosting country's NMOs and available departments.

Funding

The program operates on a bilateral basis, meaning that while students are hosted abroad, their home institutions host incoming students. Funding details include:ifmsa.org

• Program Fees: Participants may be required to pay a fee, which varies by country and NMO.
  
  
• Accommodation and Meals: Often provided by the host NMO, but specifics can vary.
  
  
• Travel and Personal Expenses: Typically covered by the participant.
  
  

It's essential to consult the specific exchange conditions of the desired host country for detailed financial information.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be enrolled in a medical program at a university affiliated with an IFMSA NMO.
  
  
• Have completed the necessary preclinical or clinical years, depending on the exchange type.
  
  
• Meet any additional requirements set by the host NMO, such as language proficiency or specific academic prerequisites.
  
  

Specific eligibility criteria can vary by country, so it's advisable to review the exchange conditions of the target destination.

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Application Date

Application periods are typically announced by individual NMOs and can vary. Generally, applications are accepted several months in advance of the intended exchange period. For example, for exchanges in June, July, August, and September, applications might be due before the March Meeting. 

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Application Deadline

Deadlines vary depending on the host country's NMO. For instance:

• Germany: Applications for July, August, and September exchanges are typically due by January 1st. exchange.ifmsa.org
  It's crucial to check the specific deadlines for the desired host country.

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Duration of Program

Each exchange lasts for four weeks. During this period, students engage in clinical clerkships or research projects, depending on the program selected (SCOPE or SCORE).

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Application Process

1. Contact Local Exchange Officer (LEO): Reach out to the LEO of your university's NMO to express interest and obtain application details.
   
   
2. Prepare Application: Gather necessary documents, which may include:
   
   
   
   • Completed application form
     
     
   • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
     
     
   • Motivation letter
     
     
   • Academic transcripts
     
     
   • Proof of enrollment
     
     
   • Language proficiency certificates (if required)
     
     
3. Submit Application: Send the application to your LEO by the specified deadline.
   
   
4. Selection and Placement: If selected, you'll receive information about your host institution, department, and other relevant details.
   
   
5. Pre-Departure Preparation: Attend any required pre-departure training or orientation sessions.
   
   
6. Exchange Participation: Engage in the exchange program as scheduled.
   
   
7. Post-Exchange Reporting: Complete any required reports or evaluations upon return.
   
   

Note: The exact process may vary by NMO, so it's essential to consult with your LEO for specific guidance.

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Application Website

• IFMSA Exchange Program: https://ifmsa.org/student-exchange-program/
  
  
• Exchange Conditions by Country: https://exchange.ifmsa.org/exchange-conditions/
  
  
• Join a Program: https://ifmsa.org/join-a-program/

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