[Appeal of French specialized training programs for foreign medical students]

Despite a good reputation abroad, specialized medical training programs in France fail to attract a sufficient number of high-level foreign students. This report examines ways of improving the situation. If French universities are to increase their international renown, they must always be referred to by the same name in scientific papers. Students following channels of excellence must be distinguished from other students. They must have a level of medical knowledge equivalent to that of a 6th-year French medical student, together with a good knowledge of French and a letter from their dean stating that their training in France is compatible with their career in their country of origin. For full medical specialist training (up to five years) the only access requirement should be the equivalent of entrance examinations for French residents. Thereafter, the theoretical and practical training should be similar to that received by French residents. Complementary specialist training courses (one year) should take place in selected university hospitals. Intensive training courses (six months) should be open to physicians who have already specialized. Diplomas should be delivered after testing knowledge and skills.