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How Do International Medical Graduates (IMGs) Perform in the Match and How Can that Information Guide Future Applicants?

I’ve reviewed data here in my blog regarding IMGs’ performance in the 2013 Match, but here are some graphics and additional data published by the ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates). Again, the numbers are a reminder of the challenges IMGs face.

Also, for those interested in how IMGs have performed in specific specialty Matches, here is the NRMP‘s (National Residency Match Program) data for 2012. Check out page 5 for “Matches by Specialty and Applicant Type.”

One of the pieces of data I find interesting here is that a greater number (more positions) and percentage of non-US IMGs matched to Internal Medicine Categorical (IM) over Family Practice (FP), but in looking at “Charting Outcomes of the Match,” IM applicants require higher board scores and generally tougher credentials to match to their specialty versus FP. It’s hard to interpret this data, but it may mean that non-US IMGs who have higher board scores and stronger credentials have a shot at IM positions, whereas those who have lesser credentials have a better chance with FP. Something to consider.

For IMGs Participating in the 2014 Match

International Medical Graduates who are planning to participate in this coming year’s match should note that the ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates) ERAS Support Services will not longer accept paper documents. All of an applicant’s supporting documents must be submitted electronically. For more information about how different documents (transcripts, photographs, letters of recommendation) should be submitted, click here.

Insider’s Evidence-Based Advising Strategy

As those of you who have worked with me or have heard me lecture know, I use Evidence-Based Advising in mentoring my clients. Just like we use data to drive good clinical practice, I have developed the concept of Evidence-Based Advising to use facts to drive strong application decisions.

In previous blog entries, I’ve discussed the utility of the NRMP Program Director Survey and the NRMP’s Charting Outcomes in the Match in helping to make solid, informed application decisions.

The Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates’ (ECFMG) data on Match results is another piece of information that can be helpful. For those contemplating applying to an international medical school or for those International Medical Graduates (IMGs) approaching this year’s application cycle, understanding IMGs’ performance in the Match is important. The current data just came out and is available here.

Of course, basing your decisions only on numbers is not adequate. When we provide excellent clinical care, we use experience, as well as the literature, to make our decisions. (This necessary combination is what makes managing patients during medical school and residency so hard.) For those of you interested in strategy based on years of admissions experience, coupled with Evidence-Based Advising, please contact me for one-on-one help.

I’ll continue to publicize useful sources of data for applicants.

The Match

Congratulations to my residency applicant clients on your great success in the Match! Special kudos goes to those who applied successfully in very competitive fields.

I was also thrilled that even those with significant weaknesses in their candidacies presented themselves effectively in their written materials and interviews such that they matched well.

Now, go out and celebrate!

AMSA Success

Thanks to everyone who attended my AMSA lecture. We had a standing-room only crowd. Your support is appreciated!