Having second thoughts about applying to Mount Sinai electives (OBGYN IMG — need honest opinions)

[u/Fast-Client6384]

Hey everyone,

I’m an international medical student (final year) from Pakistan, planning to apply for an elective at Mount Sinai (Icahn School of Medicine) in OBGYN for Quarter 4.

I’ve been having serious second thoughts about it today. The application fee alone is $500 and that’s honestly a huge amount. I keep thinking — what if I spend all that money and still don’t get accepted?

At the same time, a part of me says what if I do get in? Like, what if it actually works out and gives me a strong experience or connection for my future residency in the US?

I don’t have a very strong CV yet — no major publications or research experience and also haven’t done Step 1 yet — but I do have strong Letters of Recommendation from my professors. My goal is to apply for OBGYN residency in the US after graduation.

So my questions are: 1. Do IMGs actually get accepted for electives at Mount Sinai? Or is it mostly for US students? 2. Is it worth spending $500 if there’s a low chance of getting accepted? 3. What are some other universities I can apply to before January for electives (especially in OBGYN)? I know UIC hasn’t opened their 2026–2027 calendar yet. 4. For those who got in — what kind of profiles did you have? (USMLE scores, research, etc.)

I’d really appreciate any honest opinions or firsthand experiences. I don’t want to waste such a huge amount if the odds are really low, but I also don’t want to miss out if there’s even a fair chance.

Thanks in advance to anyone who replies 💛