Research Exchange Program

The CFMS international research exchange program is a great opportunity to experience research in another country! If you like to travel and you like research then this exciting service offered by the CFMS in conjunction with the International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA) is for you. The IFMSA is an organization representing over one million medical students in over 70 countries around the world. One of their most successful programs is the bilateral international exchange where medical students perform research electives in a country of their choice.

The electives are one month in duration (usually in the summer months) and are open to most Canadian medical students (graduating students will not be eligible). Included in the exchange are a medical staff supervisor, free accommodation, a full social program, and a meal allowance (often full board). The official language of the exchange program is English.

What do you have to do to get involved?

For now, all you have to do is complete the CFMS International Research Exchange Program Application Form (available in November) and return it to your Local Exchange Officer by December 1, 2005. Applicants will then be chosen randomly by the NOREs and successful candidates will be notified by January 15 th, 2005. If selected, you will then have to do the following:

• Agree to find free accommodation for an incoming foreign medical student (not necessarily during the month you are away).
• Provide 4 photo booth photos.
• Provide $250 administrative fee to confirm your place
• Complete evaluation about your exchange upon your return.
• Give a verbal or written presentation to students at your school about the health and social conditions in the country you visited and your elective experience.

Your elective will then be arranged for you by the CFMS National Officers of Research Exchange (NOREs). All you have to do is book your flight and you are off to a foreign destination to enhance your research skills, experience other cultures and to socialize with fellow medical students from around the world! For more information, ask your LORE/LEO or contact the CFMS NORE .

NORE Senior
Irina Serbanescu
iserbanes@yahoo.com

NORE Junior
TBA