First of all, AIMGA is not equivalent to AIMG. AIMGA stands for Alberta International Medical Graduates Association and AIMG for Alberta International Medical Graduate Program. For more details about the relationship between AIMG and IMGs residing in Alberta, please read HERE.
When I first came to Alberta, I was completely clueless as to where to get help. In the midst of my internet browsing, I stumbled on the AIMGA website and even though it seemed promising, I couldn’t access any of the information on it because I was not a member. If you’re like me, you’ll understand that I am skeptical about websites like that. I didn’t have any idea if their programs were worth my time. Moreover, I hadn’t really seen or heard of any personal experiences from AIMGA members. However, since I was out of options on how to get exam preparation assistance, I opted to sign up for their membership, and I am extremely glad I made that decision. (The membership fee is $ 40 annually). Since joining AIMGA, I have enjoyed many benefits and attended several courses at no extra costs besides the annual membership fee.
Some of the programs they offer include:
1. Professional Language Skills (PLS)
2. Language Proficiency Preparation Courses in IELTS and iBT-TOEFL
3. Basic Life Support Certification For Health Professionals
4. MCCEE, NAC and MCCQE1 study groups and mock exams.
5. Residency Preparation
6. Many others
Besides the program offerings, their staff are extremely helpful. Furthermore, when you attend programs, you can meet other likeminded people, find a study partner(s) and develop friendships.
Are you an Alberta IMG? Have you heard about AIMGA? Are you a member?
Hello, thank you so very much for this valuable site. I need to know what the implications of the phasing out of MCCEE are. Does it mean that it will no longer be required for any medical practice route after 2018? Does anyone seeking to match or apply to a Family Physician licensing programme in 2019 need to write the MCCEE in 2018? Will it be of any use then? Thank you.
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Hi Bode…you’re most welcome. I’m glad you find the website helpful. That is the reason I started it.
Currently, in this year’s residency applications (CaRMS), some medical schools e.g University of Calgary and University of Alberta only required MCCQE1 and NAC. So, I think there will be a gradual phase out and in 2019, its acceptance will depend on each program’s decision but in 2020, I believe it will no longer be required.
Unfortunately, from now until early to mid 2019, you still have to do the EE to qualify for the QE1. One option is to wait till 2019 and then do only the QE1.
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Hello Dr. Fomsky,
I just want you to know that you’re a breath of fresh air. God bless you for your amazing insights into the prospects of an IMG. I’m a post part 1 resident doctor in Nigeria. I’m about getting Canadian PR although I have not decided on a province yet, it will probably be Manitoba. I don’t have any questions yet. I want to savour the information here before I ask anything.
God bless you richly
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I’m glad you found my posts helpful!
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