Overview of the Fourth Year of Medical Training in France
The fourth year of medical training in France, known as the “4e année,” represents a critical phase in the education of general medicine interns. This period focuses on advanced clinical practice, allowing trainees to refine their skills under supervision. The program, regulated by recent legislative changes, includes specific requirements for internship duration, location, and thesis defense protocols.
Duration of the Training
The fourth year involves two additional semesters of training, commencing in November 2026. This phase lasts for 12 months within the same internship site, with exceptions permitted under specific circumstances. The extended duration ensures interns gain comprehensive experience in a consistent clinical environment, fostering continuity in patient care and professional development.
Internship Location
Interns typically complete their training in a private practice, multidisciplinary health center, or health center. Exceptional cases may allow placement in a healthcare facility, provided it aligns with the intern’s professional aspirations. This structure emphasizes hands-on learning in real-world settings, preparing trainees for independent practice.
Eligibility and Thesis Requirements
The program is reserved for general medicine interns who have completed their advanced training phase and are either thesis-ready or in the process of defending their thesis. A key legislative change, Decree 2025-1071, allows temporary exceptions for students enrolled in their first year of the specialized medical degree. Under these provisions, interns may defend their thesis by the end of the consolidation phase and be appointed as “docteur junior” starting in the 2026, 2027, and 2028 academic years, subject to specific conditions.
Key Takeaways
- The fourth year of medical training in France spans 12 months, beginning in November 2026.
- Internships are primarily conducted in private practices or health centers, with limited exceptions for healthcare facilities.
- Recent legislative changes permit temporary flexibility in thesis defense timelines for eligible interns.