The WFME PGME Recognition Programme Criteria serve as measures of quality by which WFME determine whether an accrediting agency is awarded PGME Recognition Status.

The criteria were developed under the guidance of the PGME Criteria Advisory Group comprising PGME accreditation and regulation experts from around the world. WFME sincerely appreciates the feedback provided by stakeholders during the public consultation process, which helped shape the final criteria.

The criteria are designed to support rigorous evaluation of PGME accreditation quality while remaining flexible enough to accommodate the diverse approaches to PGME worldwide. They consider varied accreditation systems and educational structures that support learning within patient care and healthcare service contexts.

Structure of the PGME Recognition Criteria

The criteria are divided into two parts, aligning with the two-step application process:

• PART 1 – Covers Context, and Eligibility Criteria. Agencies deemed eligible are invited to proceed with the Full Application.

• PART 2 – Addresses key aspects relating to accreditation standards, accreditation and decision-making processes, post-accreditation monitoring and the agency’s governance, resources and information management.

To assist agencies in completing their application, Guidance sections clarify each criterion’s meaning and intent and provide guiding questions for agencies to consider.

Terminology & Glossary

Given the global diversity in PGME structures and terminology, the WFME Glossary clarifies terms used in the PGME Recognition Criteria. It also lists alternative terminology that may be in use across different regions, serving as a reference for identifying equivalent local terms. While not exhaustive nor prescriptive, the Glossary ensures consistency in interpretation of the Criteria.