3 components –
- Personal statement (PS)
- Dynamic personal statement template
- PS for individual programs (individual statements for the signaled programs)
- Residency application
- Detailed application edit before submission
- Ensuring a strong application is submitted that highlights your strengths
- Engage your reader, grab their attention
- Crafting meaningful experiences
- Residency interview prep
- Knockout answering strategy for residency interview template (includes behavioral questions)
- Checklist for rocking the residency interview
- Checklist for standing out in a panel interview
- Mock interview 1 – 30mins
- Mock interview 1 feedback (objective scoring criteria) – 1hr
- Mock interview 2 – 30mins
- Mock interview 2 feedback (objective scoring criteria) – 1hr
Bonus
- Personal statement turnaround time 48hrs
- Checklist for what to do in case of no interviews or to get additional interviews
- Phone call & email template for requesting an interview (in case of no interviews)
- Request for an in-person look – Template
- Template to request program coordinator for who would be the interviewer
- Personalized ‘Thank you email’ template
- How to make best use of conferences for residency
- Interview formats
- Stress management program
- Digital profile clean-up (Linkedin, Facebook etc.)
- Rank order list discussion
- Constant guidance throughout interview season through email/text/whatsapp
Residency interview prep only – $900 USD (Interview answers finalize + 2 mock interview with feedback included)
2 Mock interviews + Feedback only – $450 USD (Interview answers finalize not included)
1 Mock interview + Feedback only – $225 USD (Interview answers finalize not included)
PS only – $200 USD
Residency application only – $150 USD
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many residency programs should I apply to?
The number of programs you should apply to depends on your applicant type, specialty, and overall competitiveness.
U.S. MD (US MG): Typically 15–30 programs in less competitive specialties and 30–50 in more competitive fields.
DO (U.S. osteopathic graduates): Often similar to US MDs, though applying slightly broader (25–50) can be helpful depending on specialty.
IMG (U.S. or non-U.S.): Usually 60–150+ programs, depending heavily on visa status, exam scores, clinical experience, and specialty.
There is no single “magic number.” A strategic, well-researched list is far more effective than mass applying.
How do I research residency programs?
Effective program research includes:
Reviewing program websites (curriculum, call schedule, fellowship placement)
Using FREIDA, Residency Explorer, and ACGME data
Reviewing board pass rates, case volume, and alumni outcomes
Assessing program culture through social media, open houses, and resident testimonials
Evaluating IMG-friendliness, visa sponsorship, and exam score cutoffs (if applicable)
The goal is to identify programs that align with both your profile and your career goals.
What does program signaling mean?
Program signaling is a formal way to indicate interest in specific residency programs during the application process.
Applicants are given a limited number of signals per specialty
A signal tells a program: “You are one of my top choices”
Signals are reviewed alongside your full application—not as a guarantee of an interview
When used strategically, signaling can increase interview yield, especially at programs where you are a realistic fit.
How do I know which programs to signal?
Program signaling should be used for programs where:
You have a genuine interest and would realistically attend if offered an interview
Your application is competitive but not guaranteed
There is geographic, academic, or personal alignment
Avoid signaling programs where you are either clearly overqualified or very unlikely to receive an interview. Signals are most effective when used strategically, not emotionally.
How many Letters of Recommendation should I use?
Most programs require 3 letters, and some allow or request a 4th.
Use 3 strong letters as your foundation
Add a 4th only if it clearly strengthens your application (e.g., research mentor, chair letter, or additional specialty-specific letter)
Always check individual program requirements in ERAS.
How do I know which Letters of Recommendation (LORs) to use?
Choose LORs based on:
Strength of the relationship with the letter writer
Specialty relevance
Specificity and personalization of the letter
Academic vs clinical balance
A strong, detailed letter from someone who knows you well is far more valuable than a generic letter from a well-known name.
Can I use one LOR for two different specialties?
Yes, but with caution.
A generic clinical letter (e.g., from Internal Medicine) may be acceptable across related specialties
A specialty-specific letter should only be used for that specialty
If a letter explicitly names a specialty, it should not be reused for another. When dual applying, having at least one tailored letter for each specialty is strongly recommended.
Do I have to be ECFMG certified?
IMG applicants: ECFMG certification is required to enter residency and is strongly recommended before ranking programs. Some programs require certification before offering interviews.
U.S. MD/DO applicants: ECFMG certification is not required.
IMGs should plan timelines carefully to avoid certification delays affecting ranking or match eligibility.
What is the difference between ERAS and NRMP?
ERAS (Electronic Residency Application Service): The platform used to apply to residency programs (application, LORs, personal statement, MSPE).
NRMP (National Resident Matching Program): The system that runs the Match, where applicants and programs submit rank lists.
You must register for both to successfully apply and match.
How do I choose a specialty?
Choosing a specialty should be based on a combination of:
Location: City vs rural, state preferences, proximity to family
Lifestyle: Call schedule, work-life balance, length of training
Strength of application: Exam scores, clinical performance, research, and competitiveness
Financial considerations: Salary, debt burden, years of training, long-term earning potential
A realistic self-assessment combined with mentorship and exposure is key to making an informed decision.
Should I schedule an in-person or virtual interview?
Virtual interviews: Cost-effective, flexible, and widely accepted
In-person interviews: Offer better insight into program culture, facilities, and location
If offered the choice, prioritize in-person interviews for programs you are seriously considering ranking highly. Virtual interviews remain a strong and acceptable option when travel or cost is a concern.
What is an MSPE?
The MSPE (Medical Student Performance Evaluation)—formerly called the Dean’s Letter—is a standardized evaluation written by your medical school.
Summarizes your academic performance, clinical rotations, professionalism, and comparative ranking (if provided)
Released to programs through ERAS on a set national date
Considered a key component of holistic review
Programs use the MSPE to contextualize your grades and clinical performance relative to your peers.
How can I show interest in a residency program?
You can demonstrate genuine interest through:
Program signaling (when available)
Geographic ties clearly stated in your application or personal statement
Tailored personal statements or supplemental questions
Attending virtual open houses, meet-and-greets, and sub-internships
Professional, concise post-interview or post-rotation communication when appropriate
Interest should always be authentic and specific—programs can easily distinguish genuine alignment from generic enthusiasm.
