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FAQ: Interview Process for Residency Programs

Accepting Interviews: Accept offered interviews as soon as possible. Set up a separate email that only interview offers will go and use that as your primary email point of contact in ERAS®.  Interviews are often offered on a first-call/first-reply basis, so if you delay responding, you risk being put on a wait list.

Interviewing is Expensive: Consider travel costs when planning your interviews. Planning ahead can help you make the most cost effective choices (driving versus flying; car rental versus taxis/ubers/public transportation). If interviewing locations do not offer to pay for your hotel, consider staying as close to the interview site as possible – especially if you are interviewing in areas that experience winter weather which can make travel tricky at times.

Attend the Interview Social: Most, if not all programs have a social the night before an interview which gives applicants a chance to meet residents in a relaxed environment.  Attending the social will give you a feel for the environment of the program, but also know that residents are in return getting a feel for you and if you will fit in with their program.  Program directors often ask for resident feedback from the event, so remember that even though it’s not as high stakes as the interview, you should present your best self!