To be eligible for the Pathways, you must currently meet ECFMG’s identity verification requirements and must have an Application for ECFMG Certification that is either in accepted or pending credential verification status. For detailed information on eligibility requirements for ECFMG Certification, see Application for ECFMG Certification. If you have a passing performance on Step 2 CS that is valid for ECFMG Certification, you do not have to (and are not eligible to) pursue a Pathway.
In addition to meeting the general eligibility requirements above, you also must meet all requirements for the Pathway to which you apply.
Important Note: If you have met the clinical and communication skills requirement through the Pathways, your accepted Pathway is subject to expiration. If you wish to revalidate an expired Pathway, you must complete a Pathways Revalidation Application. Refer to the Pathways in the ECFMG Certification section of the ECFMG website.
If your eligibility for ECFMG Certification changes, you are required to inform ECFMG immediately in writing of this change in your status by updating your Application for ECFMG Certification and sending an email to [email protected]. Failure to inform ECFMG of these changes may result in a finding of irregular behavior and permanent annotation of your record. See Policies and Procedures Regarding Irregular Behavior.
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[Last update: January 9, 2026]
