Selecting Programs During the Post-Match SOAP

Selecting Programs During the Post-Match SOAP

Thinking about the Post-Match SOAP 2022? At 9 a.m. (EST) on Monday, March 14th, residency candidates who participated in the Main Residency Match® through NRMP® will fall into one of three categories:

  1. Fully Matched – You have received a position that will give you full training for licensure (usually a Categorical position or Preliminary/Advanced combination)
  2. Partially Matched – You have received a position that will only partially complete your training for licensure (usually a Preliminary or Advanced position)
  3. Unmatched – You have not received any residency positions

Partially Matched or Unmatched candidates who are SOAP® eligible should consider participating in the Post-Match SOAP.

If you’re eligible, you’ll receive the List of Unfilled Programs from the NRMP R3 system. Candidates will have 23 hours to research programs. This can prove to be very tricky. Not only do you want to ensure your applicant criteria (USMLE scores, visa requirements, time since graduation) are aligned with programs’ requirements, you should prioritize the 45 programs you can apply to.

To provide a little guidance, you can focus on programs in the order listed below:

  1. Programs you have interviewed with in the past – It helps to have established prior history with a program. The better they know you, the better your chances of obtaining an offer during SOAP.
  2. Programs you have connections with – Consider programs you have past history with such as programs you completed rotations or volunteer work in. You cannot contact them, but it’s possible they will remember your name and the time you spent there.
  3. Fresh programs – Programs you have not applied to this application season.
  4. Programs you have applied to in the past – Programs you applied to this season but did not interview with.

You should avoid:

  1. Programs that send you rejections during the Main Residency Match Season.
  2. Programs you do not qualify for based on your professional background and the program’s requirements.

It is incredibly important that you only apply to residency programs with requirements you fulfill. Some requirements to consider are USMLE exam scores, IMG vs US medical graduate, Visas, Time Since Graduation, etc.

You only get 45 application opportunities to use during the Post-Match SOAP. The most important part of the process is selecting the most compatible programs. 

This is where Electronic Residency’s Program Compatibility Search (PCS) can help. You can compete in the Post-Match SOAP with our residency program compatibility search engine. It helps you select residency programs during the Post-Match with speed and accuracy. Simply search programs’ ACGME numbers (obtained from NRMP’s List of Unfilled Programs) in the PCS system for instant compatibility results.

If you aren’t confident about your Personal Statement (which should be specialty-specific), we can help with that too. Simply visit us at ResidencyStatement.com for assistance editing and optimizing your Personal Statement.

If you require any research assistance during the Post-Match, contact Electronic Residency by emailing support@electronicresidency.com or calling 858-299-2003

Post-Match SOAP Interviews

Post-Match SOAP Interviews

What You Need to Know about Interviews During the Post-Match SOAP

One of the most common questions many residency candidates may have about the Post-Match SOAP® is whether or not residency programs conduct interviews during Match Week for the Post-Match SOAP.   

The answer is yesAfter submitting your maximum 45 SOAP applications, programs may reach out to request a virtual interview.

Most of the time, programs will contact residency candidates they are interested in through email, so it is very important to check your email (including your Junk/Spam Folder) often during the early part of Match Week. However, programs can also contact you directly over the phone or through your ERAS account, so be sure to keep an eye on not only your listed email but also your phone and ERAS account.

** Remember, residency candidates are prohibited from initiating first contact with programs. Programs must initiate first contact.

Post-Match Virtual Interviews

Today, virtual interviews have become the norm. If you don’t have much experience interviewing virtually, you’ll want to practice in the days leading up to the SOAP.  You can do this with a trusted friend or family member. Also, consider signing up for our Interview Prep package, which includes detailed AI feedback on your performance during a recorded sample response.

Tips for Virtual Interviews

  • Practice, practice, practice to gain familiarity in front of the camera
  • Remember, look at the camera, not the screen
    • If it helps, tape googly eyes next to the camera to know where to look interviewers in the “eyes”
    • Move the view window that shows the interviewer nearer to the camera
  • Be familiar with all your application materials
  • Have Zoom/Skype downloaded beforehand with a professional username and icon
  • Pick a clean, quiet, and well-lit place to have the interview. Don’t forget what might be in the background! If there are going to be other people around, let them know you will be having an important interview
  • Close all background programs on your computer
  • Right before the interview, take time to freshen up your hair and check your teeth
  • Dress professionally

Post-Match Phone Interviews

Phone interviews are fairly straightforward. As such, they are usually about 15 to 20 minutes with the same content and questions that are covered in virtual residency interviews. So, the only real difference is you will not be able to read the interviewer’s body language and tone could be hard to interpret.

Tips for Phone Interviews

  • Have your application materials printed out and on hand for quick reference. This includes your MyERAS Application, Personal Statement, and any Letters or Recommendation you may have on hand (that you did not waive the right to see)
  • If you aren’t confident on the phone, practice with a friend to increase your comfort and skill
  • Make sure you have a quiet place to talk; eliminate all distractions like the television, music, or outside noise
  • Be sure to take time and listen to your interviewer before speaking; don’t cut them off until they are done asking the question
  • Dress for an interview to put yourself in the right mindset, even if they can’t see you
  • Keep pen and paper around to write notes and stay focused
  • Just before the interview, drink some tea with honey or water to clear your throat
  • Do not hang up without establishing your next step

Also, if you have either type of interview, do not forget to email a Thank You message after the interview!

So, you might feel overwhelmed by the quick pace of the SOAP. But remember, SOAP interviews are similar to Main Match Season interviews in protocol. Prepare for the interview like you would any other interview and be confident! For additional tips on interviewing, check out Match A Resident’s YouTube channel and watch our Interview Prep Series!

Finally, for help navigating the SOAP, including this year’s timeline and information about our Program Compatibility Search, visit us at ElectronicResidency.com!

(Content Updated: March 4, 2022)

The Questions about the Post-Match SOAP you were Afraid to Ask

The Questions about the Post-Match SOAP you were Afraid to Ask

While the Post-Match SOAP may happen quickly, understanding how the process works and being prepared to participate takes time. Residency candidates have a lot of questions about the Post-Match SOAP. Below are answers to some of the biggest Post-Match questions.

When should I start thinking about the Post-Match?

The Post-Match SOAP does not occur until Match Week (the second week of March). Nonetheless, if you think you might participate, it’s wise to start thinking about the Post-Match by mid-February. This will give you plenty of time to learn and prepare. Visit Electronic Residency to learn everything about the SOAP, including this year’s timeline.

I did not get any interviews during the Main Residency Match Season, can I participate in the Post-Match?

Yes. The good news for residency candidates without interviews is that you can be eligible for the Post-Match without having had any interviews or entering a Rank Order List.

But, I did not apply to any residency programs. Can I still participate in the Post-Match SOAP?

Yes. However, since you did not pay the NRMP $99 fee for the first 10 programs during the main residency Match season, you will need to pay that fee for SOAP.

Do I need to be ECFMG Certified to be eligible for the Post-Match SOAP?

Technically, no. While you do not have to be fully ECFMG certified (for example, if you are waiting to graduate from your medical school the following June), you DO have to have your USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK completed, as well as the OET. Your Pathway must also be verified by the ROL deadline. 

What do I need to be eligible for the Post-Match?

Here is a checklist of everything you need to participate in the Post-Match SOAP.

NOTE: This is a checklist for International Medical Graduates; US Medical Graduates will want to check with their medical schools for their SOAP eligibility.

  • USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK completed and verified by the Rank Order List Deadline.
  • OET completed and Pathway approved by the Rank Order List Deadline.
  • Registration with NRMP by the Rank Order List deadline.
    • This is mandatory. If you do not register with the NRMP before the ROL deadline, you will not be eligible for the Post-Match SOAP (or the Main Residency Match).
  • An account with ERAS. You can only apply to SOAP-participating programs through ERAS. 
  • A complete ERAS Application. This includes your CV, Letters of Recommendation, and Personal Statement(s).

Does it cost anything to apply to the Post-Match?

No, as long as you applied to at least one program during the Main Residency Match season, there are no additional ERAS application fees to apply to programs during the Post-Match.

If I Match into an Advanced (PGY-2) position, can I SOAP into a Preliminary position?

Yes. If you Match into an Advanced position, you can absolutely use SOAP to try to secure a preliminary position to complete before you enter your advanced program. Fortunately, the specialties with the most unfilled positions are often General Surgery (preliminary) and Internal Medicine (preliminary).

What specialties should I prepare for?

The popular theory is that you should apply to General Surgery and Internal Medicine because they are generally the specialties with the highest amount of unfilled positions. However, it makes more sense to focus your applications on specialties you have experience in and/or supporting documents for such as specialty-specific Letters or Recommendation and Personal Statements. If all your experience and documents are for Pediatrics and Family Medicine, General Surgery programs will not be very interested in your application.

How many applications am I allowed to send?

SOAP candidates are allowed to send a total of 45 applications. You may not apply to any more than 45 programs. Since you only get 45, you should be prepared to research the programs on the List of Unfilled Programs quickly to make sure you are choosing programs you qualify for. Electronic Residency is an excellent tool to help you with this.

May I contact programs to let them know I applied?

No. During the Post-Match SOAP, it is against NRMP policy to initiate contact with residency programs. This also applies to anyone acting on your behalf. Residency programs must be the one to open a conversation.

Do programs interview applicants during the Post-Match SOAP?

Yes. Most programs will hold either a brief phone interview or a video interview with the applicants of interest. 

Honestly, what are my chances? Do residency applicants actually get positions in SOAP?

Just remember, the Post-Match SOAP would not exist if no one was obtaining positions from the SOAP process. However, realistically, due to the large number of applicants and small number of positions, it can be difficult to get a SOAP position. Increase your chances by being properly prepared and absolutely ready to participate with confidence.

This article only covers some of the most popular SOAP questions, if you have any further questions, you are welcome to reach out to Electronic Residency by sending an email to support@electronicresidency.com or calling (858) 299-2003.

10 Important Match Policies

10 Important Match Policies

The Post-Match SOAP can be a difficult and frustrating few days for residency candidates. Don’t make a tough situation worse by unwittingly breaking any of the NRMP’s policies! Below is a list of NRMP Policies which affect residency candidates during the Post-Match SOAP and the Main Residency Match.

**Please Note: Breaking the NRMP’s policies can lead to a violations investigation and subsequent 1 to 3 year (or permanent) ban from the NRMP. Candidates flagged by the NRMP suffer greatly during following Match seasons.  

Top 10 Most Important NRMP Policies

  1. You must be eligible for SOAP in order to participate.
    • Review eligibility requirements at Electronic Residency
    • SOAP-ineligible applicants may not apply to unfilled Match-participating programs until after the conclusion of the Match
  2. Residency candidates may not initiate contact with programs during the Post-Match SOAP
    • Programs must initiate first contact with candidates
    • Those acting on behalf of a residency candidate may not contact programs either. For example, a medical school may not talk to a program to promote their student
  3. Those with access to the NRMP List of Unfilled Programs absolutely may NOT SHARE THE LIST with any SOAP-ineligible candidates
  4. SOAP-participating candidates may not apply to programs outside of SOAP until after the conclusion of the Match
  5. You have two hours to Accept or Deny an offer received during Offer Rounds; after those 2 hours, the offer will disappear
  6. Accepting a residency position through the SOAP is a binding agreement to begin training at the residency program on July 1st of the year of the Match
  7. All SOAP residency program applications must go through ERAS
  8. All applicants must provide complete and accurate personal and professional information in their applications
  9. Applicants cannot apply to, discuss, interview with or accept any residency position outside of the NRMP after the Rank Order List deadline
  10. Do not initiate a chargeback for any of NRMP’s fees; initiating a chargeback results in being banned from The Match

Wrapping up!

These are only some of the policies you should be aware of. Review the full Match Participation Agreement to make sure you fully understand what is expected of you as a residency candidate. For a detailed overview of how the Post-Match SOAP works and this year’s timeline, visit Electronic Residency. You can also reach out via email at support@electronicresidency.com.

Post-Match SOAP 2022 - Important Changes and Updates

Post-Match SOAP 2022: Important Changes and Updates

As a Match applicant, you’re hoping to receive good news on Monday, March 14. Finding out that you’ll begin residency in July will feel like a dream come true and is truly the culmination of years and years of dedication. The reality, though, is that not everyone will Match–even well-qualified applicants. If you had a small number of interviews (or none at all), feel your interviews did not go well, or just suspect you might not Match, the smartest decision you can make is being prepared for the Post-Match SOAP.  Knowing all about the Post-Match SOAP 2022 – Important Changes and Updates is key to your success.

In this article, we’ll provide a basic overview of the SOAP process and highlight some changes to the timeline from previous years.

Post-Match SOAP: A Brief Overview

Residency candidates who do not Match during the Main Residency Match® have the opportunity to participate in the Post-Match SOAP. The Post-Match SOAP gives eligible residency applicants a second chance to find a residency position. Throughout Match Week, SOAP candidates will access the List of Unfilled Positions through the NRMP®, research and apply to programs through ERAS®, have interviews, and participate in Offer Rounds.

Post-Match SOAP 2022: Important Changes and Updates

Unfilled Program Announcement/Program Research

In previous years, the SOAP took place rapidly. Applicants had just 4 hours to review the List of Unfilled Positions, complete program research, and apply. This year, there’s a bit more time for this important part of the process.

You’ll have 23 hours to review the List of Unfilled Positions, complete program research, and apply (from 9 a.m. EST on March 14th through 8 a.m. EST on March 15th).

Then, at 8 am EST on Tuesday, March 15th, programs will begin reviewing submitted applications. It is crucial that you have submitted all 45 of your applications before 8 am EST on March 15th.
While not required, this strategy increases your chances of success in the SOAP.

Interviews

After all 45 applications are submitted, residency candidates must wait for programs to contact them for interviews. Do not contact programs yourself. Interviews are generally held over the phone or through a video chat system like Zoom.

The interview part of the Post-Match SOAP begins on Tuesday, March 15, at 8 a.m. EST and lasts until Thursday, March 17th, at 9 a.m. EST, which is when Offer Rounds begin.

Last year, interviews began at 3 p.m. EST on Monday, just 3 hours after the system opened to candidates.

Offer Rounds

Offer Rounds are two-hour windows of time when programs submit residency position offers for candidates to Accept or Deny.

There are four Offer Rounds, and they all happen on Thursday, March 18th. If a candidate misses an offer or chooses not to reply, the offer will disappear at the end of the Offer Round. After the fourth Offer Round, SOAP will conclude and the List of Unfilled Positions will update to include programs not participating in SOAP. For a detailed breakdown of the Offer Round timeline, visit us here.

Historically, Offer Rounds were completed over a 2-day period.

The Post-Match SOAP officially concludes after the last Offer Round, ending at 9 p.m. EST on Thursday, March 17th.

Now that you know how the Post-Match SOAP works, head over to Electronic Residency for more information on how to best prepare for success in the SOAP.

Electronic Residency wishes all applicants success in the Match! We hope you’ve found this article insightful and are happy to answer any questions you may have about the Post-Match SOAP. Simply email us at support@electronicresidency.com.

The Post-Match Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP) is not an option most residency candidates want to consider until they absolutely have to. And, that is very understandable! Thinking about the Post-Match may feel like thinking about the possibility of not Matching through the Main Residency Match®— which is a very scary thought. However, Post-Match SOAP Preparation is important. Here, we'll share 4 Steps to the Best Post-Match SOAP Preparation 2022.

4 Steps to the Best Post-Match SOAP Preparation 2022

The Post-Match Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP) is not an option most residency candidates want to consider until they absolutely have to. And, that is very understandable! Thinking about the Post-Match may feel like thinking about the possibility of not Matching through the Main Residency Match®— which is a very scary thought. However, Post-Match SOAP Preparation is important.
Here, we’ll share 4 Steps to the Best Post-Match SOAP Preparation 2022.

If you have less than 10 programs on your Rank Order List, like it or not, it may be time to at least consider Post-Match SOAP preparation. So, if you deem the Post-Match might be a part of your future, the best thing you can do for yourself is start getting ready well ahead of time.

4 Steps to the Best Post-Match SOAP Preparation 2022

1. Make sure you are eligible:

  • First, register for NRMP by the Rank Order List Deadline at 9 p.m. (EST)  on March 2nd, 2022.
  • Be able to enter a program July 1st, 2022.
  • USMGs – Your medical school must clear your graduation qualifications.
  • IMGs – You must have your USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK scores, OET, and Alternative Pathway approval completed by the week before The Match.

Also, look at data from the 2021 Post-Match SOAP and start considering which specialties you will be applying to. For example, prelim General Surgery and prelim Internal Medicine both had many available positions while Pediatrics and OBGYN did not.

Post-Match statistics are made easy at Electronic Residency!

2.  Review important NRMP policies like these:

  • Remember, applicants may not initiate contact with programs during SOAP; all communication must come from the programs themselves.
  • Contact Information – Make sure your contact information is up-to-date and reliable. Essentially, you don’t want programs calling you to discover you’ve listed an old phone number or your voicemail is not set up.
  • All SOAP applications must go through ERAS to SOAP-participating programs. So, do not apply to programs outside of SOAP until after 9 p.m. Thursday, March 17, 2022
  • Importantly, do not share the SOAP Unfilled Programs List with any other candidates

3. Review, update, and/or add to your applications materials.

  • Letters of Recommendation (LoRs) – If you didn’t receive many interviews, there may have been a problem with your LoRs. So, consider getting fresh LoRs, preferably from US Clinical Experience. Make sure they are specialty-specific to the specialties you may be applying to in the Post-Match. Residency Experts can help you edit and optimize your LoRs!
  • Personal Statement – If your Personal Statement was generic, or you did not receive professional assistance, your Personal Statement could have cost you some interviews. Just like with LoRs, make sure your statement is fresh, unique, and specialty-specific.

4. Start preparing to pick the right programs when the Unfilled Programs List is released.

  • Remember, you will only be allowed 45 applications total; each program you choose to apply to should be GOLD.
  • You will only have 23 hours to research, pick, and apply to programs.
  • Use Electronic Residency during the Post-Match to instantly find out if you qualify for a program’s requirements within the first SOAP hour.

By following this advice, you will be well ahead of the curve for Post-Match SOAP preparation. So, although it is not what anyone is looking forward to, knowing you have the tools and professional assistance to succeed is vital.

Electronic Residency wishes all applicants success in the Match! We hope you’ve found this article insightful. We are happy to answer any questions you may have about the Post-Match soap. Simply email us at support@electronicresidency.com.

 

 

SOAP 2020

What You Need to Know About Post-Match SOAP 2020

Beginning Monday, March 16th, 2020, residency applicants find out their Match status – matched, partially matched, or unmatched. Those who are partially matched and unmatched may have the opportunity to participate in the NRMP’s Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP 2020). 

This is a highly competitive period to help Match candidates into Unfilled Positions. SOAP begins on Monday at 11a EST (when the List of Unfilled Programs is released by the NRMP) and concludes at 11a EST on Thursday, March 19th. 

SEE FULL BREAKDOWN OF SOAP SCHEDULE

 

Preparing for SOAP 2020

Make sure you are SOAP eligible

All applicants must have registered with the NRMP before the Rank Order List Deadline of February 26th, 2020. Additionally:

US Medical Seniors 

  • Will be sponsored by their medical schools
  • Must be able to start an ACGME® residency program on July 1st the year of The Match
  • Will be verified for graduation by their medical school

International Medical Graduates 

  • Must be able to start an ACGME® residency program on July 1st the year of The Match®
  • Must have their USMLE® Step 1, USMLE Step 2 CK, and USMLE Step 2 CS verified by ECFMG
  • Must have their credentials fully verified by ECFMG® by the week before The Match® (ECFMG communicates with NRMP® weekly to update candidate verification.)

Independent Candidates 

  • Includes previous US Medical Graduates, Canadian, DO, and Fifth Pathway
  • Must be able to start an ACGME® residency program on July 1st the year of The Match
  • Will have their credentials verified by their medical school

All applicants will receive their SOAP eligibility status on Friday, March 13th, 2020 (this is NOT your Match status – simply if you qualify for participation in SOAP or not). 

 

Additional Preparation Before Match Week 

  • Review, certify and submit your MyERAS application
  • Make sure your Personal Information (Contact Info especially) is accurate and up to date
  • Upload or add new personal statement(s) or letters of recommendation (LoR) for specialties you may apply to during SOAP 

Be sure to read: What You Should Know Before the Post-Match SOAP

 

ERAS Fees During SOAP

According to the AAMC:

“Applicants who have applied to at least one residency program (for ERAS 2020 season) by Monday, March 16 at 11 a.m. ET will not pay any application fees during SOAP.

Applicants who have not applied to at least one residency program through ERAS by Monday, March 16 at 11 a.m. ET and are SOAP-eligible, will be charged a fee of $99. If you have not sent your USMLE or COMLEX-USA transcripts, a fee of $80 per transcript will apply.”

Once SOAP 2020 Begins

At 11a EST, Monday, March 16th, Unmatched and Partially Matched applicants gain access to the NRMP’s List of Unfilled Programs. Applicants have only 1 hour to begin researching programs  – then, at 12p, ERAS opens and allows applicants to begin assigning documents for their 45 total SOAP applications (no one gets any more than these 45 applications). Then, at 3p, ERAS begins sending these applications to the programs.

Programs begin reviewing applications immediately and start contacting applicants. DO NOT reach out to programs during Match Week if you are SOAP eligible (unless they have already contacted you first)

There are 3 Offer Rounds – two on Wednesday, and the final on Thursday. See the full schedule breakdown here.

SOAP concludes at 11a EST, Thursday, March 19th.

What If I’m Still Not Matched After SOAP Concludes?

According to the NRMP, “Once SOAP concludes at 11:00 AM ET on Thursday of Match Week, you can contact unfilled programs directly using the information listed in the R3 system.” 


REMEMBER:

-Apply to 45 compatible programs before 3p EST on Monday
-Do NOT contact programs first during Match Week (only if they’ve contacted YOU first)
-Do NOT share the List of Unfilled Programs with any other candidates

 

Check Out These Other Helpful SOAP Resources 

NRMP and ERAS SOAP Guide for Applicants

ERAS Applicant Checklist for SOAP

ERAS Applicant SOAP FAQs

 

Want to maximize your chances during the Post-Match SOAP 2020? Be sure to reserve your access to Electronic Residency’s Program Compatability Search system where you’ll be able to get instant compatibility results for positions found on the NRMP List of Unfilled Programs.

2019 Post Match SOAP Results Specialty

Post-Match SOAP 2019 Results per Medical Specialty

Post-Match Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program® (SOAP®) preparation starts with residency candidates asking themselves a few simple questions. One of the most important questions is:

Are you prepared to apply to additional specialties beyond what you applied to in the regular residency application season?

 

To prepare for the Main Residency Match® season, most residency candidates know they need to gather specialty-specific documents such as Letters of Recommendation or Personal Statements while applying to programs.

However, this simple principle tends to get forgotten in the mad rush of applications at the start of the Post-Match as residency candidates end up applying to any available programs in any medical specialty using their supporting documents meant for a different specialty.

For example, a residency candidate prepared for and applied to Family Medicine and Psychiatry residency programs during the regular residency application season. Then, during the Post-Match SOAP, after they used as many of their 45 SOAP applications as they could in those two specialties, they still had a number of applications left.

In their hurry to apply to more programs, they ended up having to use their Family Medicine and Psychiatry documents to apply to specialties like preliminary General Surgery or Internal Medicine programs which did not make the best impression on those programs.

 

Know the Data 

By reviewing the data from NRMP’s® Results and Data 2019 Main Residency Match®, those looking to participate in the Post-Match can see which specialties generally have more positions available and which do not (based on SOAP 2018), allowing them to better prepare for the Post-Match with more supporting documents in a variety of specialties.

 

Results of the Post-Match SOAP 2019 per Specialty

Anesthesiology

(PGY-1) Participating Programs – 4

Filled Programs – 3

Positions Available – 21

Positions Filled – 4

 

(PGY-2) Participating Programs – 4

Filled Programs – 4

Positions Available – 6

Positions Filled – 5

 

Child Neurology

(PGY-1) Participating Programs – 9

Filled Programs – 7

Positions Available – 9

Positions Filled – 7

 

(PGY-2) Participating Programs – 2

Filled Programs – 1

Positions Available – 2

Positions Filled – 1

 

Combined Medpeds

Participating Programs – 5

Filled Programs – 4

Positions Available – 7

Positions Filled – 4

 

Emergency Medicine

Participating Programs – 14

Filled Programs – 12

Positions Available – 29

Positions Filled – 27

 

Family Medicine

Participating Programs – 113

Filled Programs – 87

Positions Available – 271

Positions Filled – 238

 

Internal Medicine

(Categorical) Participating Programs – 57

Filled Programs – 40

Positions Available – 219

Positions Filled – 176

 

Medicine-Prelim

Participating Programs – 51

Filled Programs – 37

Positions Available – 134

Positions Filled – 105

 

Neurological Surgery

Participating Programs – 0

Filled Programs – 0

Positions Available – 0

Positions Filled – 0

 

Neurology

Participating Programs – 12

Filled Programs – 11

Positions Available – 20

Positions Filled – 19

 

(PGY-2) Participating Programs – 8

Filled Programs – 6

Positions Available – 15

Positions Filled – 13

 

Obstetrics-Gynecology

(PGY-1) Participating Programs – 6

Filled Programs – 4

Positions Available – 9

Positions Filled – 7

 

(Categorical) Participating Programs – 0

Filled Programs – 0

Positions Available – 0

Positions Filled – 0

 

Orthopedic Surgery

Participating Programs – 2

Filled Programs – 2

Positions Available – 3

Positions Filled – 3

 

Pathology

Participating Programs – 17

Filled Programs – 11

Positions Available – 27

Positions Filled – 21

 

Pediatrics

Participating Programs – 28

Filled Programs – 22

Positions Available – 68

Positions Filled – 60

 

Physical Medicine & Rehab

(Categorical) Participating Programs – 0

Filled Programs – 0

Positions Available – 0

Positions Filled – 0

 

(PGY-2) Participating Programs – 3

Filled Programs – 3

Positions Available – 3

Positions Filled – 3

 

Psychiatry

Participating Programs – 11

Filled Programs – 9

Positions Available – 18

Positions Filled – 15

 

Radiology-Diagnostic

Participating Programs – 0

Filled Programs – 0

Positions Available – 0

Positions Filled – 0

 

(PGY-2) Participating Programs – 7

Filled Programs – 6

Positions Available – 11

Positions Filled – 10

 

Radiation Oncology

(PGY-1) Participating Programs – 1

Filled Programs – 1

Positions Available – 1

Positions Filled – 1

 

(PGY-2) Participating Programs – 19

Filled Programs – 13

Positions Available – 26

Positions Filled – 18

 

Surgery

(Categorical) Participating Programs – 0

Filled Programs – 0

Positions Available – 0

Positions Filled – 0

 

(PGY-1) Participating Programs – 145

Filled Programs – 81

Positions Available – 559

Positions Filled – 430

 

Transitional Year

Participating Programs – 35

Filled Programs – 17

Positions Available – 145

Positions Filled – 110

 

Want to know more about how best to prepare for SOAP possibilities?

Learn All About SOAP Preparations

Enough Interviews

Not Enough Interviews, Should I Panic?

Getting enough interviews is every medical residency candidate’s goal, and it’s a challenge for many. If you are wondering if you have enough interviews, it is reasonable to summarize that most successful candidates have 10 or more interviews before matching.

However, if you have only a few or no interviews, you may be wondering, “Do I have enough interviews? Should I panic!?”

Of course, the reality is that the best thing to do is to remain calm and work to understand your situation.


Ideas To Consider

1) Think about what you have and have not done. Is your application complete? Were there any missing components? 

2) Did you receive professional help with your application materials as well as targeting compatible programs? 

3) How many programs and how many specialties did you apply to? 

 

What To Do

If you feel like you do not have enough interviews and you have already applied, there are a few approaches you can take to help boost your chances of success. 

1) Make sure all elements of your application are present and nothing was omitted by mistake. Additionally, verify that application components have been correctly assigned to programs. 

2) Consider updating your Personal Statement. If you did not receive professional help, it is very possible you incorrectly or inappropriately addressed potential red flags in your application. 

3) Apply to MORE programs. If you are having trouble getting enough interviews, it only makes sense that you need to apply more broadly. You may consider including programs from backup specialties in order to broaden your program selection.

Please note: make sure you do not apply to programs past their deadline. 

4) Finally, be sure you are following up with the programs that you have applied to. Learn about recommended practices to Follow Up With Programs

 

In Summary

Basically, in order to get enough interviews, you can only do a few things (come mid-application season…). Review your application, update all documents you can, apply to more programs, and follow up. 

If you still do not have enough interviews by January, you will need to start seriously considering preparing for the Post-Match SOAP. Take action by preparing yourself before it is too late: What You Should Know Before the Post-Match SOAP.

SOAP 2018

Post-Match SOAP 2018 Results per Medical Specialty

Post-Match Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program® (SOAP®) preparation starts with residency candidates asking themselves a few simple questions. One of the most important questions is:

Are you prepared to apply to additional specialties beyond what you applied to in the regular residency application season?

 

To prepare for the Main Residency Match® season, most residency candidates know they need to gather specialty specific documents such as Letters of Recommendation or Personal Statements while applying to programs. However, this simple principle tends to get forgotten in the mad rush of applications at the start of the Post-Match as residency candidates end up applying to any available programs in any medical specialty using their supporting documents meant for a different specialty.

For example, a residency candidate prepared for and applied to Family Medicine and Psychiatry residency programs during the regular residency application season. Then, during the Post-Match SOAP, after they used as many of their 45 SOAP applications as they could in those two specialties, they still had a number of applications left. In their hurry to apply to more programs, they ended up having to use their Family Medicine and Psychiatry documents to apply to specialties like preliminary General Surgery or Internal Medicine programs which did not make the best impression on those programs.

 

Know the Data 

By reviewing the data from NRMP’s® Results and Data 2018 Main Residency Match®, those looking to participate in the Post-Match can see which specialties generally have more positions available and which do not (based on SOAP 2018), allowing them to better prepare for the Post-Match with more supporting documents in a variety of specialties.

 

Results of the Post-Match SOAP 2018 per Specialty

Anesthesiology

(PGY-1) Participating Programs – 9

Filled Programs – 9

Positions Available – 27

Positions Filled – 27

 

(PGY-2) Participating Programs – 8

Filled Programs – 5

Positions Available – 16

Positions Filled – 8

 

Child Neurology

(PGY-1) Participating Programs – 3

Filled Programs – 3

Positions Available – 3

Positions Filled – 3

(PGY-2) Participating Programs – 2

Filled Programs – 1

Positions Available – 2

Positions Filled – 1

 

Combined Medpeds

Participating Programs – 5

Filled Programs – 5

Positions Available – 5

Positions Filled – 5

 

Emergency Medicine

Participating Programs – 7

Filled Programs – 6

Positions Available – 10

Positions Filled – 8

 

Family Medicine

Participating Programs – 67

Filled Programs – 64

Positions Available – 141

Positions Filled – 138

 

Internal Medicine

(Categorical) Participating Programs – 51

Filled Programs – 45

Positions Available – 171

Positions Filled – 162

 

Medicine-Prelim

Participating Programs – 41

Filled Programs – 33

Positions Available – 99

Positions Filled – 88

 

Neurological Surgery

Participating Programs – 0

Filled Programs – 0

Positions Available – 0

Positions Filled – 0

 

Neurology

Participating Programs – 9

Filled Programs – 9

Positions Available – 12

Positions Filled – 12

 

(PGY-2) Participating Programs – 2

Filled Programs – 2

Positions Available – 4

Positions Filled – 4

 

Obstetrics-Gynecology

(PGY-1) Participating Programs – 6

Filled Programs – 6

Positions Available – 10

Positions Filled – 10

 

(Categorical) Participating Programs – 4

Filled Programs – 4

Positions Available – 6

Positions Filled – 6

 

Orthopedic Surgery

Participating Programs – 1

Filled Programs – 1

Positions Available – 1

Positions Filled – 1

 

Pathology

Participating Programs – 20

Filled Programs – 17

Positions Available – 28

Positions Filled – 25

 

Pediatrics

Participating Programs – 20

Filled Programs – 18

Positions Available – 53

Positions Filled – 51

 

Physical Medicine & Rehab

(Categorical) Participating Programs – 0

Filled Programs – 0

Positions Available – 0

Positions Filled – 0

 

(PGY-2) Participating Programs – 0

Filled Programs – 0

Positions Available – 0

Positions Filled – 0

 

Psychiatry

Participating Programs – 5

Filled Programs – 5

Positions Available – 12

Positions Filled – 12

 

Radiology-Diagnostic

Participating Programs – 1

Filled Programs – 1

Positions Available – 1

Positions Filled – 1

(PGY-2) Participating Programs – 0

Filled Programs – 0

Positions Available – 0

Positions Filled – 0

 

Radiation Oncology

(PGY-2) Participating Programs – 1

Filled Programs – 1

Positions Available – 1

Positions Filled – 1

 

Surgery

(Categorical) Participating Programs – 3

Filled Programs – 3

Positions Available – 5

Positions Filled – 5

 

(PGY-1) Participating Programs – 145

Filled Programs – 114

Positions Available – 462

Positions Filled – 412

 

Transitional Year

Participating Programs – 17

Filled Programs – 15

Positions Available – 65

Positions Filled – 63