Applies to: WSU Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine Graduate Medical Education (GME) all accredited post-graduate medical training programs (i.e. residency or fellowship) and all Trainees in Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine Sponsored Training Programs.
Date: March 18, 2025
1.0 Policy Statement
It is the WSU College of Medicine GME policy that trainees will be provided an annual education allowance for the purpose of enhancing their learning experience. This policy establishes guidelines for the trainee’s use of the annual education allowance.
2.0 Definitions
N/A
3.0 Responsibilities
GMEC, DIO, Program Directors
4.0 Procedures
Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine resident physicians are provided an annual education allowance as specified below:
Annual Allowance
- PGY1 – $500 plus one-time reimbursement of USLME Step 3 or COMLEX Level 3 examination fee.
- PGY2 – $800 (in addition to USMLE Step 3 / COMLEX Level 3 examination fee if not used during PGY1.)
- PGY3 – $1,000
- PGY4 and above, including Chief Residents – $1,000
Allowances
Are in effect from July 1–June 30 or the dates of the program year (PGY). Balances do not rollover from one program year to the next. Any unused allowance funds at the end of the resident’s training are forfeited.
The Following Items Are Permitted Allowance Expenses
Educational conference expenses including:
- Conference registration
- Travel expenses
- Lodging expenses
- Food
- Food and lodging paid up to maximum per diem rates based on WSU travel and reimbursement guidelines
- Print materials including textbooks and journals
- Self-study, online educational courses/materials
- ABMS Specialty Board Examination Fee (up to annual allowance)
- Travel support for elective away rotations
- J1 Visa (ECFMG) application fee for J1 visa renewals
- Expenses associated with presenting scholarly work not covered by the program.
The Following Items Are Not Permitted Allowance Expenses
- Computers, computer equipment (i.e.: printers, scanners, etc.)
- Cell phones
- Furniture
- Cases (i.e.: cell phone cases, laptop bags, iPad cases, etc.)
- Accessories (i.e.: chargers, screen protectors, etc.)
- Personal items not related to medical education
Attendance to an educational conference is encouraged.
All requests for reimbursement from the education allowance must be pre-approved by the Program. Residents must complete the appropriate pre-approval request for reimbursement by contacting their Program Administrator.
Expense reimbursements are processed per the WSU business policy. Appropriate receipts for reimbursement should be submitted within 30 days of purchase or travel.
5.0 Related Policies
GME Compensation Policy, Support for Residents Presenting Scholarly Work
6.0 Revision History
GMEC Approval: October 20, 2020, March 18, 2025
Revision/Review Date(s): July 19, 2022, March 13, 2025
Responsible Office: WSU College of Medicine Sponsoring Institution
Policy Contact: Designated Institutional Official
Supersedes: N/A