Future international medical graduates (IMGs), if you're planning to participate in the Residency Match Season for 2024 and are looking for more information about it, you've come to the right place. We know it can be a daunting process, but we've put together a handy timeline and checklist to guide you through the entire journey. So, let's dive in and make sure you're on track.
June 2023: Start Your Program Research
- First things first, start your research early. Take a deep dive into residency programs that align with your professional goals.
- ERAS tokens become available for IMG applicants on June 28, 2023. Be sure to get yours through ECFMG.
- While researching, keep in mind that not all program databases and websites are regularly updated, so check for time-stamps and verify the information.
- You can also use resources like Match A Resident for customized residency program lists.
- It's time to schedule and prepare for your USMLE Exams. You'll need Step 1 and Step 2CK completed by the Rank Order List Deadline in March.
July – August 2023: Prepare Your Residency Application
- Prepare your Letters of Recommendation (LORs).
- Start crafting your medical residency Personal Statements. You'll need one for each specialty you're applying to.
- Your personal statement is your chance to stand out. Before submission, please share it with professionals in your field to gather valuable feedback. Their insights will help refine your statement, making it more persuasive to program directors. This stage is vital in presenting yourself effectively. You can trust Residents Medical to editing your personal statement, we've done it for our placement candidates for over 20 years!
- Begin filling out your ERAS Application.
- Entering your CV details into ERAS requires meticulous attention. This step can be time-consuming as you strive to present your qualifications accurately. Expect to go through multiple editing rounds to eliminate any lingering errors.
- Work on your Contact Information (you can change this later if needed).
- Consider professional assistance for editing and optimizing your ERAS Written Sections.
- Residents Medical offers comprehensive editing for your ERAS application and Interview Prep. Click the link to learn more.
- Remember, only certify your application when it's complete and error-free!
- Request your USMLE transcript and authorize its release.
August 23rd, 2023: Suggested document submission date
- This is the time to ensure all your uploaded documents are ready for use.
- Follow up with your LOR writers and express your gratitude.
- Keep tabs on the status of your documents with ERAS and your medical school.
September 2023: Apply to Residency Programs and Register for NRMP®
- September 6th, 2023: Starting at 9 a.m. (EST), ERAS allows applicants to certify and submit their applications to residency programs (Programs won't receive them until September 27th, 2023).
- September 15th at 12pm (EST): NRMP Registration opens.
- Double-check your program choices to ensure they match your qualifications.
- Assign documents to the right programs.
- Submit your applications between September 6th and September 27th (all applications will be time-stamped "September 27th").
- Aim to apply to at least 100 programs per specialty.
- Remember, you can continue to submit applications throughout the season.
- It's wise to get ready for your upcoming residency interviews. Begin by formulating responses to frequently asked questions and crafting a concise elevator pitch about yourself for when the opportunity arises. Moreover, if you haven't received interview invitations from programs you are particularly keen on, consider proactively reaching out to these programs to express your interest, which can boost your chances of securing an interview.
November – January: NRMP, Applying, and Interviews
- Send follow-up letters to programs you haven't heard back from.
- If you've completed interviews, remember to send thank you letters.
- Consider taking the OET Medicine test by December's last available date.
- Ensure ECFMG receives your OET scores by January 31, 2024.
- Register with NRMP by January 31st to avoid late fees.
February 2024: NRMP and Rank Order Lists
- February 1st, 12pm (EST): Rank Order List ranking opens.
- Register with NRMP by the Rank Order List Deadline (February 28th) - this is also required for Post-Match SOAP eligibility.
- Residents Medical offers assistance during the Post-Match SOAP. If you do not match, reach out to us immediately so we can help you achieve residency.
- Create, change, and certify your Rank Order List. You can make changes after certifying until the deadline.
March 2024: MATCH Week and the Post-Match SOAP
- February 28th: NRMP Rank Order List Deadline (9 p.m. EST) and last day to register for NRMP.
- March 11th, at 10am (EST): Match Week begins and Post-Match SOAP kicks off.
- Check your Match Status on Monday of Match Week.
- If you're unmatched or partially matched and SOAP eligible, the Post-Match SOAP begins.
- March 14th: Post-Match SOAP concludes at 9 p.m. (EST).
- March 15th: MATCH DAY! If you achieve residency/fellowship, your program location becomes available at 12 p.m. (EST).
May 31, 2024, 5pm (ET): 2023-24 ERAS Application Season Ends
- Don't forget to make backup copies of all your important documents.
And there you have it! This timeline and checklist should help you stay organized throughout the Main Residency Match Season. Keep in mind that dates and times are subject to change, so stay informed by visiting the official websites of ERAS, ECFMG, NRMP, and USMLE.
If you're considering applying for a residency or fellowship in the upcoming 2024 season, look no further than Residents Medical. We're here to assist you with our professional expertise and the unique Residents Medical difference that can make all the difference in achieving your dream medical residency or fellowship in the United States. Don't hesitate to reach out to us, and let us guide you on your path to success in the medical field! Schedule your free evaluation today to explore the full range of benefits we offer!
Best of luck on your journey to securing a spot!
