Getting ready to apply for your medical residency? American University of Antigua (AUA) students usually apply for residency in their final year of schooling. Read on for a general overview of the application process.
The Application
Though the application process may vary slightly by medical institution, it is relatively the same across the board. In your application, you’ll submit your medical school transcript, USMLE or COMPLEX score, personal statement, cover letter, letters of recommendation, and any other materials requested. If you are applying to residency in the United States, then your information will be submitted to the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), which will then send it to the hospitals of your choice.
The Interview
The interview is your opportunity to make a strong impression on the residency program director or selection committee. It also allows you to learn more about the institution and determine if it’s the right fit for your residency. If possible, do not schedule interviews for the programs you are most interested in first. It’s best to get a few interviews under your belt, so you get some practice before your most important interviews. Make sure you dress professionally, arrive early, and are well-prepared. Prepare for the unexpected and remember to follow-up with a short note thanking all those who interviewed you for their time and consideration.
The Match
Next, rank the programs you applied to and interviewed for in order of preference. Your favorite programs will be ranked highest and the least preferable ones will be rated the lowest. The residency program director or selection committee will rank all of the candidates they’ve interviewed in the same manner. The applicants are then matched with the appropriate residency programs based on the lists. In mid-March, applicants are notified of the residency program to which they were matched.