1. Apply early
   Seemingly easy verification of your credentials can have unforeseen obstacles that can cause delays. The average time to process your application is 8 to 12 weeks for physicians and 4 to 6 weeks for physician assistants. However, the verification process is dependant on the timely and complete responses of medical schools and training programs and therefore we cannot guarantee how long it will take to process your application. Applying six months prior to needing your credentials sent to a medical board or hospital is a good idea. Once an FCVS file is established, updates can be processed within 3 to 4 weeks for physicians or 1 to 2 weeks for physician assistants, thereby expediting licensure and/or privileging in other states.
   
   
2. Apply online (Physicians Only)
   The processing of your application submitted online begins almost immediately. Remember to send in your supporting documentation. The verification of your credentials cannot begin without the supporting documentation. The Web address to apply online is, http://fcvs.fsmb.org.
3. If you are submitting a paper application, download the most current application from our Web site.
   Our application and requirements change from time to time. By downloading the application from our Web site, you will have the most current version and not miss out on important changes that could cause delays.
4. Notify FCVS immediately of any changes in your address, phone numbers or e-mail address
   Send us an e-mail or fax the information to us. Long delays in the processing of your application can occur when we are unable to get in contact with you. We have found that e-mail communications works best since we are able to respond quicker without interrupting the work flow.
   
   
5. Read and follow ALL of the instructions
   The application instructions provide you many detailed requirements. Applicants that simply complete the application without reading the instructions often miss this information.
6. Complete ALL questions in the application
   If you don't know or are unsure of the answer to a question, reply "unknown" - do not guess. Many delays are attributed to incorrect answers from the applicant when the medical school or training program reports different information.
   
   
7. Write neatly and legibly or type the information online (Physicians on-line only)
   The Web address to apply online is: http://fcvs.fsmb.org.
8. Submit ALL supporting documentation
   Our verification process cannot take place without these documents.
9. If you want to send us documents quickly, use the USPS Priority mail
   DO NOT USE OVERNIGHT such as FedEx or UPS. Overnight carriers will not deliver to a P.O. Box address.
10. If any pre-medical education coursework satisfied any medical education requirements, please indicate such information on our forms
    We are required to verify this information and significant delays occur when we receive information from the medical school indicating that some credits were transferred from another college.
11. List ALL medical schools you ATTENDED
    We verify all education, not just education that you successfully completed.
12. If you know that your training program has closed, please indicate that on your application
    We often times spend days/weeks trying to locate a training program. If you know your training program has closed, please let us know - it will save a great deal of time in the processing of your application.
    
    
13. If you completed a training program more than 10 years ago, include a copy of your certificate from the program
    Current staff at the training facility may have difficulties locating records that are 10 years or older. The certificate aids them in locating your file quicker.
14. Report ALL postgraduate training
    We are required to verify all training, including research positions.
15. Include an explanation for any gaps in your education and training of 6 months or longer
    We are attempting to create a timeline of your activities during your educational/training years. Curriculum Vitae's often do not provide the entire scope of events of your activities. Please ensure you provide a complete accurate and full explanation of your activities.
    
    
16. If you attended a Fifth Pathway program, please send a copy of your certificate
    We use the certificate to verify attendance and completion at the program.
17. State Board examination information
    This applies to individuals who took examinations at the state medical board level many years ago. It is not for individuals who may have done an oral exam at a state board.
    
    
18. International Medical School graduates
    Please submit copies of your transcripts, marks, course work or grades. The copies will assists in obtaining accurate information from your medical school. You are also highly encouraged to sign up to allow us to use an overnight service to send the verification requests to your medical school. This expedites your application significantly.

For your convenience, FedEx Office (formerly FedEx Kinko's) offers discounted services to FCVS applicants, including photocopies and passport quality photographs. Most of the documentation that you will be requested to send to FCVS can be taken to your local FedEx Office location for one-stop shopping at a greatly reduced cost. Notary services are also available, regular fees apply. Simply present Preferred Customer number 8400051717 at your local FedEx Office location. To find your nearest FedEx Office location, click here.