It is a list of the residency programs that interest you, ranked in the order of your preference.
It depends on how competitive you are for your desired specialty. Highly competitive students can apply to 100 or so programs. Moderately competitive students should apply to 150-200 programs. Students who have multiple attempts on USMLE exams should apply to as many programs as you can afford. Avoid applying to more than one program at the same medical center. Do NOT apply to any program which you would not want to attend. DO apply to programs in more than one state, especially if you are seeking competitive residency. DO apply to programs that are US IMG friendly. Look into places that others may not want to go to, such as rural areas or underserved populations. You will gain experience that you wouldn’t otherwise get.
Yes. Most programs now require USMLE Step 2 at the time of application or at the least, the interview. Please review UAG’s USMLE Step 2 policy in the Student Handbook. It is ideal to have a USMLE Step 2 score reported by the time you apply to programs in mid-September. Aim to have a USMLE Step 2 score reported before September 15 of the year prior to entering the Match.
No. Most programs do not require that you graduate before applying or interviewing; however, they do require that you graduate before your residency begins in July. The latest month you can graduate is June. Some programs do request that you become ECGMG certified before applying or interviewing, which would require graduation from UAG. You must do your research to find out.
Yes. You will be considered an FMG/IMG. For most of UAG’s School of Medicine student population, you are considered US IMGs.
ECFMG is the “Designated Dean’s Office” for UAG students and all students/graduates of foreign medical schools.
Yes. Your USMLE scores are essential parts of your residency match application. Not only do program directors look at your scores, but programs also look at the attempts on the exams. Passing the first attempt is the most favorable result on USMLE Step 1 and 233 or higher on Step 2 are best for matching according to
NRMP’s Charting Outcomes in the Match for International Medical Graduates.
Yes. However, many programs are likely to not interview candidates who have taken it more than twice.
- 1: You will not be allowed to retake the exam if you pass with a low score.
- 2: Most licensing boards require that you take USMLE Steps 1, 2 and 3 within a seven-year period.
