Visiting Students

Below is a summary of the Blocks for the 2026–2027 academic year:

Block 1: July 6 – July 31 
Block 2: August 3 – August 28
Block 3: August 31 – September 25
Block 4: September 28 – October 23
Block 5: October 26 – November 20
Block 6: November 23 – December 18
Block 7: January 4 – January 29
Block 8: February 1 – February 26
Block 9: March 1 – March 26
Block 10: March 29 – April 23

**Please note that departments reserve the right to offer Blocks based on the availability of spots, so some dates may not be available.

Visiting student applicants can begin browsing the 27-28 electives catalog on VSLO on Friday, March 12th, and the portal will open for submission of applications on Tuesday, March 30th. 

Below is a summary of the Blocks for the 2027–2028 academic year:

Block 1: July 5 – July 30
Block 2: August 2 – August 27
Block 3: August 30 – September 24
Block 4: September 27 – October 22
Block 5: October 25 – November 19
Block 6: November 22 – December 17
Block 7: January 3 – January 28
Block 8: January 31 – February 25
Block 9: February 28 – March 24
Block 10: March 27 – April 21

**Please note that departments reserve the right to offer Blocks based on the availability of spots, so some dates may not be available.

For more information on VSLO, visit AAMC/VSLO.

What specialties are being offered this cycle? 

Document Format: Upload all documents as PDF or JPG.

What documents are required for initial submission of applications?

• AAMC Immunization Form
• ACLS/BLS certification
• OSHA Certification*
  • OSHA Universal Precautions Training:
    • Must meet OSHA standards for bloodborne pathogens and personal protective equipment.
    • Training must be valid through the entire rotation period.
    • Many home institutions provide a certificate or completion document.
    • If not, training may be completed through approved online providers (e.g., National OSHA Foundation, American Red Cross) at the student’s expense.
• CV/resume
• Letters of recommendation
• Proof of Malpractice insurance ($1M per incident and $3M aggregate coverage)
• Personal statement
• Transcript
• USMLE Step 1/COMLEX Level 1 score report
• Proof of up-to-date Mask Fit Test 

What are the requirements that need to be fulfilled for onboarding? 

• Proof of up-to-date Mask Fit Test 
• Flu Vaccine 
• TB Test 
• Proof of Malpractice Coverage*
• Affiliation Agreement in place BEFORE arrival 
• Title IX Training 
• HIPPA Training 
• COVID‑19 Vaccination: Proof of full vaccination and booster required.

*Malpractice coverage MUST extend up to or beyond the end date of last rotation applied for.

*OSHA Universal Precautions Speak to your home school for information/renewal. Expiration date must cover entire rotation. Upload completion/expiration date document. More information below in the FAQ.

Who is the contact for application questions?
Bailey Jenkins

What is the duration of each extramural elective?
A minimum of four weeks.

How many extramural electives can a visiting student arrange?
One per student per specialty

Is a separate application needed for each elective request?
Yes

How much are the application fees?
$15 per elective application. No extra fee for alternative dates for the same elective

If a departmental coordinator gives verbal approval, is an application through VSLO still required?
Yes. All applications must be processed via VSLO.

Are off-block rotations available if my schedule does not match the elective dates in the catalog?
No. UMSOM does not accommodate off-block rotations.

If I have special needs, will I be accommodated?
Yes.

Are there housing options in the area?

Past visiting students have successfully secured accommodations through a variety of local and online resources.

Here are some recommended options to explore:

🏢 Local Housing Option

• ZAHLCO – 500 Park Avenue
  Located directly on campus, this is a popular choice among visiting students. You can explore availability and apply directly through their website: https://www.zahlco.com/500-w

🌐 Online Housing Platforms

• RotatingRoom.com – Ideal for students in healthcare or academic rotations.
• FurnishedFinder.com– Commonly used by travel nurses and short-term professionals.
• Airbnb – Offers flexible short- and long-term stays.
• VRBO – Vacation rentals that can be suitable for extended stays.
• TravelNurseHousing.com – Tailored for healthcare professionals on temporary assignments.