General Questions
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Why should I use FCVS?
keyboard_arrow_downApplicants who complete the FCVS verification process create a permanent, lifetime profile of primary-source verified credentials. This allows for easy and cost-effective access to medical credentials whenever needed. This service is particularly beneficial for physicians who graduate from medical schools outside the United States or Canada, as verification can often be time-consuming, costly, and challenging. It is also highly useful for applicants applying to multiple state boards at the same time or for those whose postgraduate training programs have closed.
Which State Medical Boards accept or require FCVS?
keyboard_arrow_downA significant number of state medical and osteopathic boards either accept or require the use of FCVS. We invite you to review the list of boards that accept or require the FCVS Physician or PA profile, which may enhance your application process.
How much does it cost?
keyboard_arrow_down| Physicians: | |
| Initial Application | $395 |
| Subsequent Application | $99 |
Please note that additional fees may be applicable for any additional verifications as required.
Each additional profile designation costs $65 for each application.
| PAs: | |
| Initial Application | $170 |
| Subsequent Application | $65 |
Please note that additional fees may be applicable for any additional verifications as required.
Each additional profile designation costs $65 for each application.
Note: FCVS does not accept checks.
How long does the FCVS process take?
keyboard_arrow_downAt FCVS, we aim to process your applications as quickly and smoothly as possible! Typically, initial applications take about 35 days or less to process, while subsequent applications usually take around 20 days or less. Just a friendly reminder—we handle primary source documents and processing times may vary based on how quickly we hear back from programs regarding any requests for verification, or from you for clarification of information.
How can I get a copy of my credentialing profile?
keyboard_arrow_downThe Personal Profile Designation is designed with your needs in mind, especially for those who wish to establish their core credentials before selecting an entity to receive their profile. It’s also a great option if you simply want a copy of your profile for personal reference.
**Please note that Personal Profiles are only visible for up to 6 months after release**
We understand that preparing for your career can be challenging, so we want to clarify that the following items are not included in the Personal Profile Designation profile:
- Examination Score Transcripts
- ECFMG Certification Report (for International Graduates)
- Medical Education Verification (for International Graduates)
If you are planning to send your profile to a state medical board, please be aware that these documents will be necessary, and additional fees may apply. For more information about the documents that FCVS verifies, we encourage you to visit the Credentials Verification Process page.
I used FCVS years ago, why is it taking so long? What should I expect?
keyboard_arrow_downFCVS permanently stores all documents related to your identity, medical education, and postgraduate training. Once you submit your subsequent application, they will be reviewed to ensure they meet the current specific requirements set by the board. This process may involve additional communication with the relevant institutions. Any newly reported or updated training must also be verified.
Please note that examination transcripts and ECFMG Certification Status Reports must be requested for each board designation. FCVS is not permitted to store or duplicate these documents. As a result, additional processing time and fees will be required to obtain them.
Is the state licensing application the same as an FCVS application?
keyboard_arrow_downIt is important to recognize that the FCVS application differs from the application for state licensure. Each state licensing authority has its own unique application process, which typically includes additional information and verification of credentials beyond what FCVS provides. Many state boards accept or may require the Uniform Application as part of their licensing requirements. We encourage you to visit the website of your designated board(s) to familiarize yourself with their specific application procedures and requirements.
What is the difference between FCVS and UA?
keyboard_arrow_downFederation Credentials Verification Service (FCVS): The Federation Credentials Verification Service (FCVS) is a valuable resource for physicians and PAs. It establishes a lifetime repository of essential credentials, simplifying the medical licensure process. FCVS obtains primary source verification of medical education, postgraduate training, and examinations, creating a permanent credentials profile that can be utilized throughout a medical professional's career. Both initial and subsequent applications for FCVS are intended for the verification of your credentials and do not serve as applications for licensure. Learn more about FCVS.
Uniformed Application (UA): The Uniform Application (UA) is a standardized licensure application utilized by numerous state medical boards. It serves as the primary application for medical licensure, streamlining the process by reducing the redundancy of entering information when applying for licensure in multiple states. However, it does not replace specific state-level requirements. Learn more about UA.
Where do I mail my Fingerprint Cards?
keyboard_arrow_downFCVS only manages your credentials. If the board requests you submit a fingerprint card, please send it directly to your specific state licensing board.
What documents are required to verify my identity?
keyboard_arrow_downPlease refer to the Identity Verification section of our website for information
When will FCVS issue my license?
keyboard_arrow_downFCVS is dedicated to managing your credentials; however, please note that we do not issue licenses or provide guidance to the board regarding their issuance. If you require assistance with the licensing process, we kindly recommend that you reach out directly to the board with your inquiries. https://www.fsmb.org/contact-a-state-medical-board/
How long can a board access my profile once it is complete?
keyboard_arrow_downThe state board profiles are visible for up to 6 months after release.
Medical Education
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How do you obtain verification of my medical education?
keyboard_arrow_downRequests for verification of medical education are sent electronically whenever possible, immediately upon submission of the application. Mailed requests, including those requiring a check, are sent within 2-3 business days after submission.
How do you obtain verification of my medical education that is international?
keyboard_arrow_downFor physicians holding ECFMG certification, FCVS works closely with ECFMG, and verification requests for medical education are carefully processed by ECFMG based on the information gathered during the certification process.
Should the verification documents provided by ECFMG align with the state licensure standards, they will be included in the physician's profile.
In instances where responses are incomplete or not received promptly, FCVS will reach out up to three times at regular intervals to ensure complete verification is obtained.
If you are not ECFMG Certified, please refer to “How do you obtain verification of my medical education?” (above) for our process.
Do I need to reach out to ECFMG?
keyboard_arrow_downWe understand that you may have concerns about reaching out to ECFMG, but there’s no need to worry. FCVS will let you know if you need to get in touch with ECFMG.
Do I need to reach out to my medical school?
keyboard_arrow_downYou are not obligated to contact your medical school directly. FCVS will handle all communications needed to secure the appropriate verification documents to complete your profile.
In exceptional circumstances, you may be asked to reach out to your school. If this situation arises, FCVS will inform you accordingly.
Why am I being instructed to order my official medical school transcripts?
keyboard_arrow_downIf you are asked to order your transcripts, please be aware that your medical school does not permit third-party requests for certified transcripts. To facilitate your application process, you will need to request that a certified transcript be sent directly to FCVS. Your cooperation in this matter is greatly appreciated.
Do I need to report all medical schools I attended?
keyboard_arrow_downYes, it is necessary to report all medical schools attended, whether domestic or international.
Do you accept verification documents from EPIC?
keyboard_arrow_downFCVS will not accept documents from Electronic Portfolio of International Credentials (EPIC℠).
Graduate Medical Education
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Why was my verification request sent to the Program Coordinator and not the Director?
keyboard_arrow_downFCVS will send the verification request directly to the Program Coordinator, unless the program specifies otherwise. This is being done to streamline our process, as the coordinators are the individuals who regularly handle these types of documents.
I have an alternative contact, who do I send this to?
keyboard_arrow_downFCVS will only send verification requests to those who manage your training records. Our verification forms aren't the same as personal reference forms, so we will not send them to your colleagues for completion. If you have an alternate contact, this person should be associated with your program. You may forward this additional information to fcvsinbox@fsmb.org.
Why was my non-accredited training not verified?
keyboard_arrow_downFCVS will only verify training that is ACGME, AOA, or RCPSC Accredited.
Am I required to upload my Completion Certificate?
keyboard_arrow_downNo, you are not required to do so, but some boards do require them from physicians.
Why do you reverify my GME training every time I apply?
keyboard_arrow_downFCVS reviews your documents for each new application submitted. If the verification does not meet the board's requirement, we are obligated to obtain a new verification. Each licensing board sets specific requirements that FCVS has to meet. From time to time, we may need to verify any prior training we have completed to ensure we align with these board requirements. This process helps us maintain high standards and supports our ongoing commitment to professionalism.
Will FCVS Verify my training completed in another country?
keyboard_arrow_downFCVS does not verify International Graduate Medical Education (GME) training. Instead, all International GME training should be reported under the Additional Activities section of your application, located under Chronology of Activities. Please note that FCVS will only verify training from the UK if the recipient of your FCVS Profile is the Maine Board of Licensure in Medicine.
Exams/Certification
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Do you verify my board certification?
keyboard_arrow_downFCVS does not verify board certification; therefore, you are not required to include this information in your application.
Why does FCVS order my exam every time I apply?
keyboard_arrow_downThe exams are specific to each board, so we must order them for every state licensing board you apply to.
I took part of the USMLE, do I still need to report my NBOME?
keyboard_arrow_downYes, you must report all licensing exams taken.