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Indiana University School of Medicine
Indiana University School of Medicine
Radiology and Imaging Sciences

Four-Year ABR Alternate Pathway

The American Board of Radiology (ABR) offers an international medical graduate (IMG) alternate pathway to board certification for IMGs who are not planning to enter the standard residency pathway to certification in diagnostic radiology.

At Indiana University, the required four years of training can be accomplished through a combination of education in the following training programs: abdominal radiology, cardiothoracic imaging, emergency/trauma radiology, musculoskeletal radiology, neuroradiology, nuclear medicine, and pediatric radiology.

ABR certification allows IMGs to practice radiology in private practice or in any hospital (public or private) in the U.S. Most states in the U.S. require two years of ACGME-accredited training in order to apply for an unrestricted license.

We make every effort to offer IMGs two years of ACGME training in the pathway.

Application timeline

The submission deadline to be considered for a July 1, 2026 start was February 20, 2026. Applications submitted from today's date onwards will be considered for a July 1, 2027 start or beyond. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year.

Application requirements

  • Completed ABR Pathway Application: Indicate all programs you are applying to for consideration. 
  • Current CV 
  • Personal statement
  • USMLE 1-3 score reports. Successful completion of all three USMLE steps is required before an applicant may be considered for a potential pathway.
  • Valid ECFMG Certificate. Include extension if applicable.
  • Medical school diploma
  • Medical school transcripts
  • Dean’s letter/MSPE from medical school
  • Certificate of completion of residency
  • Three letters of recommendation. Include a letter from your residency training program, a letter from your current fellowship (if attending), and a letter from other faculty, colleagues or fellowship directors.
  • Valid work authorization
  • Send completed applications to the fellowship program coordinator at radfelpr@iu.edu

Once we receive your application, our programs will review your application. If there is sufficient interest, you will be offered virtual interviews with the faculty and staff of the interested programs. The interview process typically takes two to four hours for each program.

An exceptional candidate demonstrates a combination of clinical excellence, leadership qualities, a track record of strong research and scholarly activity, and volunteer or administrative work.

Indiana University is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the university considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.

What is the deadline to submit my application?

  • We accept applications on a rolling basis and review applications as long as we have openings. Once all application material requirements are met, please email the materials to the fellowship program coordinator at radfelpr@iu.edu.

  • The submission deadline to be considered for a July 1, 2026 start was February 20, 2026. Applications received after this date for a July 1, 2026 start will be considered on a case-by-case basis or will be considered for a July 1, 2027 start.

What visa can be sponsored?

  • The Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences’ four-year ABR Alternate Pathway program is eligible for J-1 sponsorship at this time. H-1B transfers and J-1 transfers are supported.

  • Please be aware that our musculoskeletal, breast, abdomen, MRI, cardiothoracic, and head and neck radiology programs are not able to support trainees on a J-1 visa due to non-ACGME-accredited status.

Can I apply without my USMLE Step 3 score?

  • No. Please apply once all application documents are ready. Applicants will not be considered for a potential Pathway until all materials are provided. Providing some documents early will not give applicants an advantage or a head-start.

I'm in the middle of training but want to transfer institutions. Do you accept transfers?

  • Yes. The ABR now allows the Alternate Pathway to be completed at up to two institutions and will award up to 24 months of retrospective credits. If accepted into the IU Alternate Pathway program, the candidate will need to submit an Acceptance Sponsoring Department Agreement and a Transfer Release Verification Form to the ABR. Please notify the fellowship program coordinator of your intent to transfer to the IU. The ABR requires trainees to complete at least 24 months of training at the institution where they finish, even if it extends the total training time beyond four years. For more information regarding transfers, please visit the Alternate Pathways to Certification webpage from the ABR.

What are housing options in the Indianapolis area?

  • Central Indiana is a hub to global life sciences companies, including Eli Lilly and Co, Cook Medical, Roche Diagnostics, Elanco and Corteva. Indianapolis offers a thriving downtown, with 300+ restaurants, sport venues and cultural activities. Many of our current faculty choose to live in Carmel, Zionsville and Fishers, which are frequently ranked among the best places to live nationally. The region combines top-rated public and private schools, affordable housing and cultural amenities with a strong life sciences economy.