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Medical Residency Roadmap

September 10, 2019/in USMLE /by admin

Matching to a medical residency program does not happen in a day. Follow this map to find your way to success:

Two Years Before Medical Residency: Initial Prep

- Apply for ECFMG authorization to register for the USMLE.
- Become familiar with and begin the process for certification including medical diploma verification.

One Year Before Medical Residency

January through March
- What type of doctor do you want to be? Be sure to research specialties and programs. Consider where you have the best chance for interviews.
- Begin working on your personal statements.
- Be sure to have USMLE® Step 1 exam completed. Allow 4-6 months to prepare.
- Schedule your Step 2 CS test date. Seats fill up fast. Some programs require ECFMG-certification before applying.
April through June
- Request your ERAS token.
- Start requesting letters of recommendation.
- Strengthen your application with U.S. clinical experience. Find the right opportunities and take advantage of them. Be diligent; it may be a challenge but well worth the effort.
- Take Step 2 CK to have results by September. Allow 3-4 months to prepare, and at least 8 weeks for your score.
July and August
- Register with the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP).
- Collect those recommendation letters and put the finishing touches on your personal statement.
- It’s time to finalize your documents. Submit to ERAS early.
- Consider taking USMLE® Step 3. It could strengthen your residency application if you have deficiencies such as gaps between your clinical experience and the time you apply.
September
- AAMC’s My ERAS opens! Apply early and stay organized.
- Step 1 and Step 2 CK scores are strongly encouraged to be considered for interviews.
- If you need a visa that permits clinical training activities, check on the status.
October
- It’s time for interviews!
- Remember to be patient, as many programs invite interviewees into January.

[ GOOD TO KNOW: The Most Important Part of Your Medical Residency Application ]

Your Medical Residency Year

February
If you haven’t yet, submit your rank order list.
March
Get your match results. If you didn’t match, consider the Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP) to find your spot.

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