Overview
The UCSF Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging offers an American Board of Radiology (ABR) Alternate Pathway Program for internationally trained radiologists pursuing ABR certification. Designed for physicians seeking careers in academic radiology, the program provides advanced subspecialty training, mentorship, research, teaching, and leadership opportunities.
A distinguishing feature of the UCSF Alternate Pathway Program is its comprehensive, multi-year approach to training. Unlike many institutions where applicants interview for fellowship positions one year at a time, UCSF develops an individualized training plan for the entire Alternate Pathway. During the interview process, applicants meet with the Alternate Pathway Program Director and multiple fellowship program directors to develop a personalized curriculum spanning four years for the Diagnostic Radiology (DR) Alternate Pathway or five years for the Interventional Radiology/Diagnostic Radiology (IR/DR) Alternate Pathway.
By planning the full course of training from the outset, we provide greater stability and continuity, allowing trainees to focus on their education, research, and professional development rather than repeatedly applying for fellowships or navigating annual immigration processes. This reflects UCSF's long-term commitment to each trainee's academic success.
Program Structure
- The UCSF Alternate Pathway combines ABR-required training with a comprehensive academic experience.
- Diagnostic Radiology (DR): Four years of training
- Interventional Radiology/Diagnostic Radiology (IR/DR): Five years of training
- Individualized curriculum developed during the interview process
- Annual appointments are renewed based on successful completion of prior training, satisfactory performance evaluations, and compliance with UCSF Graduate Medical Education (GME) policies.
- The curriculum is designed to provide sufficient ACGME-accredited training to maximize eligibility for medical licensure throughout the United States, recognizing that individual state medical boards determine their own licensure requirements.
- Transfers from outside institutions will be considered, as the Alternate Pathway may be completed at more than one institution. More information on transfers can be found on the ABR website.
Exceptional clinical performance, scholarly productivity, and research accomplishments may create opportunities for faculty appointments during the Alternate Pathway.
Applicants wishing to begin the Alternate Pathway through an initial faculty appointment should apply through the UCSF Radiology Academic Recruitment process.
Fellowship Opportunities
Fellowship opportunities vary from year to year and depend on departmental needs and available training positions. While UCSF strives to develop an individualized curriculum that aligns with each trainee's educational goals, placement into specific fellowships cannot be guaranteed.
ACGME-accredited
- Nuclear Medicine
- Pediatric Radiology
- Interventional Radiology
- Neuroradiology
Non-ACGME
- Body Imaging
- Cardiothoracic Imaging
- Musculoskeletal Imaging
A research year may be incorporated into an individualized training plan with prior departmental approval and external funding.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
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Meet current ABR Alternate Pathway eligibility requirements.
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Have passed USMLE Steps 1, 2, and 3. Applications will not be accepted without passing all three USMLE Step exams.
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Be eligible for a California medical license before beginning training.
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Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident (green card holder), or current H-1B visa holder eligible for transfer to UCSF.
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Have a valid ECFMG certificate.
Application Requirements
Submit the UCSF fellowship application along with:
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- One-page personal statement
- ECFMG certificate
- Medical school diploma and transcript
- Residency completion certificate (and prior fellowship certificates, if applicable)
- USMLE Step 1, 2, and 3 score reports
- Three letters of recommendation (including one from a residency or fellowship program director)
- Three clinical references
- Current visa documentation (if applicable)
- Professional headshot
Applicants should also review the current ABR Alternate Pathway requirements before applying.
Fellowship Application
Selection & Credentialing
Applications undergo a review by the UCSF Alternate Pathway Program leadership.
Shortlisted candidates participate in virtual interviews with the Alternate Pathway Program Director, multiple fellowship program directors, and/or UCSF faculty members to develop an individualized multi-year training plan.
Final acceptance is contingent upon successful UCSF Graduate Medical Education (GME) approval and, when applicable, approval through the UCSF International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO).
ABR Certification
Graduates who successfully complete the UCSF Alternate Pathway and satisfy all ABR requirements are eligible to take the ABR Core and Certifying Examinations.
