Matching to a residency program through the NRMP® (National Resident Matching Program) is a competitive endeavor, especially for International Medical Graduates (IMGs), formerly called “Foreign Medical Graduates.” These applicants, who graduate from medical schools outside of the United States, face difficult odds. In 2009 only 47.8% of United States citizen IMGs obtained first year positions through the Match. Of those IMGs who were not U.S. citizens, only 41.6% matched (Source: Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates).

Furthermore, some IMGs complete their third- and fourth-year rotations in locations that are geographically distant from their base schools. Therefore it is more difficult for them to attain application guidance through their institutions or through senior students who have experience with the process. Because of these challenges and the poor odds, professional residency admissions consulting has become increasingly important in optimizing residency applications for IMGs and improving the odds that these candidates get into residency programs. Read more ›