Frequently Asked Questions
Q) Which allopathic programs have TCOM graduates been accepted to?
A) TCOM students have been accepted to a broad range of ACGME specialty programs throughout the country. We can assist you with specific questions, and we highly encourage you to contact individual programs to determine if they are accepting applications from osteopathic graduates.
Q) Aside from class rank and COMLEX Step 1 scores, what other factors could improve a person's chances of being accepted to the residency program of their choice?
A) Several things will help improve your chances of being selected for the residency program of your choice. They include: strong subject exam scores, positive comments on your evaluations, and strong COMLEX Level 2 and USMLE Step 2 scores. You will also need (3) strong letters of recommendation...plus, it's also a good idea to rotate at a residency site that you're interested in to network and let your talents be known. Additionally, a strong residency interview is important...the chemistry between you and the interviewer/s is critical.
Q) What is the process of selecting electives in fourth year? What about doing out of state electives? Also, can you do multiple electives in one field?
A) Selecting electives during year four involves self-evaluation. You will need to ask yourself questions such as...What rotation(s) am I interested in? What is my geographical preference? What are the needs of my family?
You may take two electives in a given field, for example, pediatrics, plus an additional sub-specialty such as pediatric cardiology. You could use your optional vacation month to pursue an additional elective in pediatrics although it wouldn't satisfy the curricular requirement of six electives; it would just be extra.
Details about applying to residency programs are available through The Office of Clinical Education.
Q) ERAS is separate from the Matches, correct? How do we apply to the ACGME and osteopathic matches?
A) ERAS (the Electronic Residency Application Service) provides a uniform application for AOA (osteopathic) programs and ACGME (allopathic) programs. It is a vehicle for applying to residency programs.
The National Matching Services (NMS) is the match program for AOA internships and residencies. The National Resident Matching Program is the match program for ACGME residencies. The two matches are separate from each other; both are separate from ERAS. You must register for the matches in order to participate.
Click here for Match information. Visit the Residency 101 site for complete ERAS instructions.
Q) Which residencies are preferred if you are interested in continuing to a fellowship program?
A) Your best chance of being accepted to a program will depend on your credentials, but preference may be given to candidates that completed their primary residencies in the same institution. It's always a good idea to inquire directly to the program and see where the current fellows came from.
Q) Can you apply to more than one residency program?
A) You can apply to any number of different residencies at any number of different sites. Program directors, however, will question your interest in their specialty when they know you are considering others. You should have your specialty choice narrowed down before you begin the interview process.
Q) What time of year should I visit a prospective program (for an elective)?
A) You should plan to visit the program that you are interested in by December 1st of your fourth year. Allopathic programs are still interviewing in early January, but that may be a little late for them to see you.
Q) What is the advantage of doing a traditional rotating internship prior to residency?
A) Students who are uncertain of their long-term goals would be candidates for a traditional rotating internship prior to residency. Some residency programs require a preliminary year of some sort before entering the residency as a PGY2. Also some states (most notably, Oklahoma) require traditional, transitional or equivalent internships for licensure. Make sure you do your homework when making this decision.
Q) Is there a correlation between a student's class rank and the program in which they were accepted?
A) The programs you are applying to will consider all of your credentials. That doesn't mean you won't be accepted if you are in the lower quartile of your graduating class. This is a competition for the best places and the best students. You want every competitive advantage. Your advisors will be able to give you more information regarding particular specialties.
Q) How many fourth year electives are required?
A) Six electives are required during your fourth year of medical school.
Q) Which ACGME programs accept COMLEX without requiring the USMLE?
A) More and more programs are requesting USMLE scores. We advise you to contact the programs that you will be applying to for their particular requirements.
