Filling out the ERAS application and 2022 Residency Match data

The ERAS (Electronic Residency Application Service) application is one of the most important steps on the path to securing a residency position. Submitting a strong ERAS application takes time and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you put your best foot forward and create an outstanding ERAS application:

Getting Started

- Review the ERAS timeline and deadlines. Note important dates for registering for MyERAS, assigning documents, applying to programs, etc. Give yourself plenty of time, as delays can occur.

- Thoroughly read the MyERAS User Guide. Understanding the technical aspects of the application will prevent headaches later.

- Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements. Confirm you are graduating from an accredited medical school and have satisfied exam requirements.

- Request an ERAS token from your medical school’s Dean’s Office early. This allows access to MyERAS.

MyERAS Account

- Complete all MyERAS account sections accurately: biographical information, birthplace, citizenship, etc. Mistakes can cause verification issues later.

- List all medical schools attended, even if just for a short time. Be prepared to explain gaps or time off.

- Enter contact information meticulously. Programs may try to reach you via these methods.

Documents

- Upload your updated CV. Showcase experiences and activities that highlight your interests and skills.

- Enter your personal statement thoughtfully. Refine over several drafts to tell your unique story effectively.

- Obtain a polished letter of recommendation (LOR) from each person you ask. Remind them of ERAS policies and provide your CV.

- Assign all required documents prior to applying to any programs. This prevents delays.

USMLE Transcripts

- Authorize release of your USMLE transcripts early via the NBME website. These can take weeks to process.

- Ensure your scores are accurate and all attempts are listed before assigning transcripts to programs.

Photo

- Use a high-quality, professional headshot. Avoid casual images or group photos.

- Ensure your photo meets ERAS specifications (dimensions, file size, etc.) to prevent image distortion issues.

Medical School Performance

- Provide an explanation for any adverse actions, failures, or time off during medical school. Disclose truthfully.

- Thoroughly review your Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE) for accuracy. Ask the Dean’s office about corrections if errors exist.

- Enter grades carefully from your official medical school transcripts. Double check for accuracy.

Experiences

- List all relevant experiences from medical school: leadership roles, research, publications, extracurriculars, etc.

- For each experience, provide thorough details on your responsibilities, skills gained, and achievements. Quantify results when possible.

- Avoid large blocks of text by using bullet points, short paragraphs, and whitespace strategically.

- Carefully select which experiences to designate as “Most Meaningful.” Choose those that tell your story best.

Programs

- Research programs thoroughly to create your list. Prioritize fit over prestige.

- Attend in-person residency fairs or virtual visits to make connections at programs of interest.

- Apply only to programs you are genuinely interested in and see yourself attending. Avoid applying excessively.

- Tailor your personal statement for each program. Reference specifics that resonate with their mission and values.

Review

- Triple check all entered data for accuracy before submitting. Have mentors review as well.

- Ensure proper formatting throughout. Follow all instructions closely.

- Confirm all required documents are assigned and acceptable. Re-upload any fuzzy or distorted images.

- Submit early once confident all materials are complete and accurate. Do not wait until the deadline.

Interview Offers

- Update your application if any new honors, publications, or achievements occur after submitting.

- Respond promptly if you receive interview invitations. Be flexible with scheduling when possible.

- Send tailored thank you notes after each interview. Reference unique aspects that resonated with you.

Be methodical, detailed, and strategic throughout the ERAS application process. Applying to residency programs is competitive, but a strong application promotes your chances of securing interviews at programs that fit your goals and interests. While completing ERAS requires diligence and patience, think of it as an opportunity to present your highest self to future mentors and institutions.

2022 Main Residency Match:

• 38,106 applicants submitted program choices

• 37,256 applicants matched to first-year residency positions, including 31,190 graduating U.S. MD medical students and 5,927 graduating U.S. DO students.

• The most competitive specialties were Neurological Surgery (65 positions, 101 US seniors matched), Orthopedic Surgery (690 positions, 787 US seniors matched), Plastic Surgery (150 positions, 161 US seniors matched), Otolaryngology (374 positions, 386 US seniors matched), and Radiation Oncology (197 positions, 202 US seniors matched).

• Specialties with the highest match rates for US seniors were Emergency Medicine (99.4%), Neurology (98.8%), Pathology (98.4%), Psychiatry (98.4%), Internal Medicine (98.3%), Family Medicine (97.9%), Pediatrics (97.8%), and General Surgery (97.3%).

• Match rates were lowest for Urology (78.1%), Orthopedic Surgery (79.1%), Otolaryngology (79.5%), Thoracic Surgery (83.8%), and Radiation Oncology (87.1%).

• 98.4% of all positions offered in the Match were filled. Of 32,194 total PGY-1 positions, 31,884 (99.1%) were filled.

The most competitive programs had match rates under 50% for top US senior applicants. For example, the Harvard Radiation Oncology program only matched 2 of 131 US seniors who ranked them as their first choice.

Average number of applications submitted by US seniors was 78 for Radiation Oncology, 71 for Neurological Surgery, 65 for Orthopedic Surgery, and 53 across all specialties.