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Academic Credit and Letters of Recommendation FAQs

Answers about Academic Credit and Letters of Recommendation

Mark Jones avatar
Written by Mark Jones
Updated over 2 months ago

Can I use my IMA internship for academic or course credit?

Yes. Many students have successfully earned academic credit through their IMA internships. We work with your institution to provide documentation that may include:

  • Confirmation of hours completed

  • Letters of evaluation from site mentors and physicians

  • Detailed outlines of responsibilities and learning objectives

  • Signed verification of patient care exposure

We recommend contacting your academic advisor or internship coordinator early to confirm your school’s requirements.

Will I receive a letter of recommendation?

Yes—students who demonstrate professionalism, commitment, and active participation are eligible to request a letter of recommendation. These letters:

  • Are written by licensed healthcare professionals or senior IMA mentors

  • Detail your clinical experience, strengths, and contributions

  • Can support medical, PA, dental, nursing, or graduate school applications

To request a letter, you’ll work with your assigned program mentor or the Medical Director after your internship concludes.

Are hours counted toward direct patient care or shadowing experience?

Yes. Internships through IMA offer hours that are typically accepted as either:

  • Direct Patient Care (DPC): Especially for PA, nursing, and other hands-on tracks

  • Shadowing: For pre-med, pre-dental, and other observation-based pathways

You’ll receive formal documentation outlining your role, shifts, and total hours, validated by our U.S.-based Medical Director.

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