Visiting Student Frequently Asked Questions

VSAS-Specific
If you have any questions about how to use VSAS, please consult the following resources:

VSAS Resources for Students
VSAS Student FAQ
How to Apply to VSAS
Institution Information - Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine

Other Questions

Is housing available?
Unfortunately, we do not have any housing facilities available for visiting students, as Loyola-Stritch is a commuter campus. Most visiting students who are from out of town sublet an apartment in Oak Park or Forest Park.

My school has different period/block dates from Loyola. Can I change the dates of my elective to match those at my home school?
Our period start and end dates apply to all students and are strictly enforced. It is not possible for us to accommodate requests for changes in these dates.

How can I find out if there is space available in a particular elective for a particular month?
It is not feasible for us to provide an up-to-the-minute enrollment status for each elective. Please submit an application on VSAS, and we will review your application according to our timetable for elective registration.

Have I submitted everything I need to for my application?
Please refer to our required documents on VSAS. If there is anything missing from your application, one of the individuals in our office will contact you via email.

How can I find out more information about the specifics of a particular elective?
You will find some information in the course catalog listing for the elective. The best resource for more information about the elective is the departmental elective coordinator, who is listed at the top of each course entry.

I am a medical student from a non-U.S. school. Can I take an elective at Loyola? Elective opportunities are available to international medical students on a very limited basis. Interested applicants must meet the visiting student criteria for US students (except completion of the USMLE Step 1 exam), as well as several additional requirements, in order to be considered for an elective rotation. For further information, please contact the Director of Registration & Records, Mary Van Houten at mavanhouten [at] lumc [dot] edu.