Update: Calculator algorithm has been revised and updated as of September 2013. Version 3.0. This is the IMG residency chance calculator. This was devised with a few
factors that affect your chances at match. Once you are done with this
you can look at the programs which are most IMG friendly or look at how step 1 score affects the chances of interview
Release notes:
1. Changes reflect 3 digit scores
2. Linear unweighted scoring for core 12 questions
3. Weighted modification for additional 3 questions - attempts to be done by candidate.
Stage 1: Take the quiz to obtain the unweighted core score.
Stage 1: Take the quiz to obtain the unweighted core score.
Remember the score you receive in the quiz above.
Stage 2
Stage 2
Adjustment score calculation
- All exams cleared in first attempt: 0
- More than one attempt on step 1: 3
- More than one attempt in Step 2 CK: 3
- More than one attempt in Step 2 CS: 2
- More than one attempt in Step 3: 2
Select the above conditions (where applicable) and add up the
adjustment score.
Deduct the adjustment score from the quiz result to obtain
final score
i.e Stage 1 score - stage 2 score = final assessment score. Input this value below.
Final assessment:
This quiz uses applicant demographic and qualification data to calculate the chance of securing interview for residency and by the same token matching into a program. Please keep in mind this only a statistical algorithm and is for informational purposes only. The results of the test should not be construed as absolute and be held against the author (Droidor ©). For more useful information regarding USMLE and residency go to http://www.mleresidencytips.com/
i.e Stage 1 score - stage 2 score = final assessment score. Input this value below.
Final assessment:
This quiz uses applicant demographic and qualification data to calculate the chance of securing interview for residency and by the same token matching into a program. Please keep in mind this only a statistical algorithm and is for informational purposes only. The results of the test should not be construed as absolute and be held against the author (Droidor ©). For more useful information regarding USMLE and residency go to http://www.mleresidencytips.com/
** Old version**
Calculator algorithm has been revised as of April 2011. This is Version 2.0. This is the IMG residency chance calculator. This was devised with a few factors that affect your chances at match. Once you are done with this you can look at the programs which are most IMG friendly or look at how step 1 score affects the chances of interview
Quizzes by Quibblo.com
This quiz uses applicant demographic and qualification data to calculate the chance of securing interview for residency and by the same token matching into a program. Please keep in mind this only a statistical algorithm and is for informational purposes only. The results of the test should not be construed as absolute and be held against the autho (Droidor © / Rohit D). For more super useful information regarding USMLE and residency go to http://mleresidencytips.blogspot.com/
Hi this was a great quiz, only things i would add is other attempts bc according to this with my high step 3, publications, and being a US Citizen I am an excellent candidate but it did not take into account that i had so many attempts in step 1 which is why i could not get many ivs to begin with...
ReplyDeleteLike the idea though.. great site keep it up !
HI , ACROSS TO THE 2014 CHART RELEASED BY NATIONAL RESDANT PROGRAM MATCH THERE IS NOT A SIGNIFITANT DIFFERENCE BETWEEN NON US IMG AND US CITIZEN IMG MATCH.
Deletegreat tip. will work that important piece of information into the algorithm. Thanks so much.
ReplyDeleteneed to have more options with the questions about publications, should be able to pick more than one choice in that. Same goes for clinical experience, clinical hands on, electives, research etc
ReplyDeleteThank you all for the constructive comments. working on V2.0 which will incorporate your suggestions! Thanks again
ReplyDeleteI think people are being way to critical.
ReplyDeleteThe changes you made make it a lot better.
I really like your site and your efforts. I think you are really a genuine person for helping so many people. Thank you droider =)
Why I cant use the tool?
ReplyDeleteIt ignores PS, medical school performance, communication skills, race, country of med school (canada, uk, ireland, caribbean, aus, nz, europe), prior residency, high IQ, how early you apply, support system with application process, right selection of Programs...among others
ReplyDeletetrue but those variable are the most difficult to pin down because of the expansive subset to chose from. The ones in the calculator are definite defined variables with the most influence on the match process. But good point none the less.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your help on FB
ReplyDeleteI'd like to ask you some Qs
I'm a IMG who needs visa.
I've applyed to 50 programs so far (pathology)
I'd like you to advice me if I need to apply to more programs, I based my applications on the pathology programs websites, acoording to IMG within the program, and Visa offering.
My creds are: IMG, need visa (J1/H1), Grad year 2008, Step1 240/99, Step2 227/99, CS passed 1st time, 2 motnhs observership in path department, 3 US LORS from pathologists, and 3 yr residency traininig in pathology in my home country, also, 1 case report published, 2 oral presentations and a pathology related website... I'd like to know my chances just with 50 programs... or ... should I apply to more programs?...I'm open to your kind suggestions.
All the best and thank you for your time.
i think you need to apply to atleast 90 or 100. Path is tougher than IM or FM. being an IMG places you at a disadvantage. Your application is great otherwise. Just up your chances by applying to more programs.
ReplyDeleteI was the first to comment on this and you actually took into account my comments! thats awesome!
ReplyDeleteyes anonymous @ 12 sep 2011 22.03. Thanks for your input. Appreciate it!
ReplyDeleteDroider,
ReplyDeleteLove the site. Thanks for doing this, it's a big help. I am a US-FMG applying for 2013. I got Step 1- 91, step 2 99 and ck pass. However, i also have a misdemanor for disorderly conduct on my record. Do you forseeing this as being a problem if i am loooking to match into Internal Med or Family? Thanks for your imput!
@Anonymous 19 October 2011 05:48
ReplyDeleteThis should not be an issue with interviews. Just be clear and do not hide it if they ask you about it. Usually programs have you sign a form or some sort of declaration of offenses, be truthful about it and have a very good explanation ready. It also depends on how you execute this conversation with them.
Thank you so much for this. With USMLE doing away with 2 digit and emphasis being placed on 3 digits maybe you can tweak the alogorithm a bit :)
ReplyDeleteThanks! I am planning to update the algorithm to include the 3 digit scores. Keep posted.
DeleteI put wrong information in the first time. So I want to use it for second time. I could not. Every time I go to this link I just saw everyone's result and could not use it again. Help me for that.
ReplyDeleteThanks
which browser are you using? you can clear out your browser cache and try again. alternatively reset the browser to native state (if you are using safari). Or try taking the quiz with another browser. what seems to be happening is that you are seeing your previous result because the browser is using the old data.
DeleteThank you. I will try.
ReplyDeleteExcellent tool, very helpful. In fact your entire series of blogs is amazingly helpful.
ReplyDeleteI need some advice and would really like your input.
I am FMG with otherwise excellent credentials (PhD, about 13 publications in international journals such as Biochemistry and the Journal of Neuroscience and one book chapter, lots of presentations posters etc, have GC, Step 1- 250, contacts in my field of specialization (neurology). I do not have my step 2 yet but based on my first step score I should be okay. I have two drawbacks; lack of clinical experience, which I am doing my darnest to correct. I am applying next year so I have time. I am ready to spend $$ if I have to. But my main problem is the year of graduation; something I cannot fix. I am an ancient grad, 1998. How serious is this a problem? I know it is serious but can I still get around it? or is it mostly a deal breaker?
Please be brutally honest :)
you have awesome credentials. Amazing step 1 score as well. 1998 is really old. I see two issues with this, one, you have been pretty successful since graduating medical school. Usually long gaps in CV are a problem, not if you have been productive. Another problem I foresee with your application, is given your successful career as a scientist the programs are bound to think what is your motivation to get back into clinical medicine. You need to be prepared with a good response which you should work in your personal statement as well.
DeleteThanks for an amazingly fast and encouraging response. You are spot on about the questions I am going to face regarding my choice to move back to clinical medicine after a career in research. Here is the thing. My research has always been clinically oriented. Especially, after PhD, my work has been very clinically oriented. I worked with animal models of neuro-degenerative diseases; trying to figure out the pathophysiology at the neuronal level. In addition, I was doing a lot of preclinical drug testing in these animal models. I also have some experience in human tissue recording (do not know if that counts as 'clinical experience' ;)). I also have some experience in Pharma R&D (neurological diseases). In a nutshell, I am slowing moving towards things more and more clinical throughout my research career. I think the next step is actually getting to the human level and apply some of the stuff I learned. I don't know if that sounds convincing (it's true). What do you think?
DeleteBe truthful about your reasons to get in to graduate school. They can be practical or personal. Steer away from altruistic reasons as to why you spent the last few years of your life doing research instead of getting into medicine. Programs directors especially university based programs like to have candidates such as yourself in the mix of applicant pool because you bring to the program a certain level of maturity and inquisitive outlook which fresh graduates from medical schools lack. Be open and honest about your motivations to get into research and to now get out of research [even though you may have been inching towards clinical medicine, your career as a scientist seems pretty successful. so the question will be why leave a working formula for many unknowns]. Have that answer ready and you should do well at interviews.
DeleteThanks. Great advice..
DeleteI am an FMG currently doing a masters in epidemiology of aging program from the johns hopkins bloomberg school of public health. my step 1 scores are 191 (dismal). In have one publication currently. I'm doing research under a neurologist at the johns hopkins hospital. I'm waiting for my step 2 ck results n haven't taken my cs yet. My thesis project is on cognition n my advisor is an expert on cognition n alzheimers. I plan on applying to neurology residency. I passed out of med school this year. My masters program at hopkins ends in may 2014. does it make sense for me to apply for a phD in neuroscience at the hopkins school of medicine to strengthen my research credentials? Despite my low step one scores, I wish to do my residency at an academic institution with a good research based neurology program. I've heard such programs look at individual applications. Do comment n advise. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteI wish to apply in 2013.
ReplyDeleteHello Dr. Mahajan, A score of 191 is really a difficult obstacle to surmount. However you are correct in that if you have poor scores then you need to shore up your application to increase you chances. Though they will not be as optimal as having 245+ in steps, your chances will improve with additional credentials. In addition, the effort of doing PhD (5+ years) needs to be balanced with the returns (contacts, publications, CV). I suggest you apply early and see how many interview you get, at the same time keep the option of PhD open because, it may have to be a secondary plan in case you wish to pursue education in US.
DeleteThanks a lot for your response. I understand that my dismal step 1 scores take me back a long way. But there are a couple of questions I would like to ask you regarding the "filter" :
Delete1. Is it true that certain residency programs use step 2 ck scores as a filter?
2. Is it true that really good programs consider individual neurology applications instead of using any score based filter?
I would be very grateful if you could answer my questions.
Thanks
Abhi
Hi it dint have step3 attempt as a filter.. which is crucial for my application. how to conclude my situation.
ReplyDeleteone of the parameters is step 3 score. given that step 3 result does not really influence the candidate selection criteria as much as other steps do, attempt on step has been left out. as reagrds step 3 this is the order in which its considered from most favorable to least.
Deletegreat score in step 3 > passing score in step 3 > no given step 3 > failed in step 3
hi....this blog represents one of the best available informative sites about USMLE and Residency on internet....I really appreciate the effort u have put in....
ReplyDeleteI need some honest advice about my future plans and your help would be really appreciated.
My credentials are:IMG,2011 graduate,step 1 228, step 2 236,CS passed on first attempt,preparing for step 3,observerships:one month in teaching hospital and one month in a private clinic(IM),Need visa(J1/H1).
I applied late for match this year but i got only rejections uptill now(which is really depressing). I think IV season is over,so now I am looking at my future plans to enhance my chances next year.
I want to know:
1)What would be better for me....more observerships or research?
2)I applied to IM and Med/Peads this year.....keeping in mind the situation this year, I want to have a back up option next year....i.e either peads or neurology.....I like neurology but i have heard that it is pretty difficult to get in for IMGs...is it right?should i leave option of neurology keeping in mind my scores?
3)if i do do research or observerhsips only in IM, would it affect my chances in peads next year ?Do i need to get separate observerships/research for Peads or my IM LORs and experience would be fine?
Thank you .
continue with some effort and seek observerships. the benefit is two fold, one you are staying in touch with medical and clinical work and two, you may end getting a high profile LOR which can replace an existing LOR you have. next year apply on time. applying late is often a factor which affects interview chances. Neuro is more tough to get than peds because of fewer spots. usually, specialty specific obs are better but doing something is better than nothing.
DeleteHi.. This blog has been extremely helpful in sorting out most of my queries. However I have a few additional questions.
ReplyDeleteI am FMG. Recently graduated in 2010. My scores are nothing to write home about. . 190 on my step1(1st attempt) and CK 213(1st attempt), cleared CS on first attempt. I have around 5 months of USCE in private clinics for IM and cardiology. I have been doing research in diagnostic radiology since april 2012. I have my name on a couple of case reports sent for publication in US journal, along with a peer reviewed online publication in forensic medicine in India. I require J1/H1 visa. I have 4 strong LORs from the attendings I have worked with in the United States, Out of which, one of the attendings has an Alpha omega Alpha status. I have recently taken my ACLS exam and secured its license. I will be taking the step 3 shortly.
I did apply in november so i am assuming that alongside my low score would have played a critical role for not getting any IV calls..
I am well aware of the fact the my application isnt the strongest. Hence It would be absolutely munificent of you to provide me with any kind of admonition in order to strengthen my application, the scramble and increase my chances of getting IVs for the 2014 match. I wish to match in a IM/Radiology program...
Kindly be Brutally candid.. Appreciate the candour.
Hello Dr. Kassam,
DeleteThe replies to your queries in point format [my answer in parenthesis] are below
Hi.. This blog has been extremely helpful in sorting out most of my queries.
[thank you]
However I have a few additional questions. I am FMG. Recently graduated in 2010. My scores are nothing to write home about. 190 on my step1(1st attempt) and CK 213(1st attempt), cleared CS on first attempt. I have around 5 months of USCE in private clinics for IM and cardiology.
[ your application is not bad, nor it is excellent but clearly you have made an attempt to improve your overall level. You have to highlight this in your CV and your personal statement. sometimes, an applicant is judged not by what he has achieved easily but by how he responds to to adversity. clearly, you have shown a lot of initiative to get USCE, journal articles and case reports, showcase the process]
I require J1/H1 visa. [that in itself is not an issue]
I have 4 strong LORs from the attendings I have worked with in the United States, Out of which, one of the attendings has an Alpha omega Alpha status.
[4 strong letters is good AOA status of referee does not help the applicant by it self. if they are from a prestigious institution and higher in the food chain then it matters]
I have recently taken my ACLS exam and secured its license. [waste of money at this time, unless you plan to do hands on clinical experience. you are not expected nor required to be ACLS/BLS certified prior to application]
I will be taking the step 3 shortly. [get it done. pass with a great score, will help]
I did apply in november so i am assuming that alongside my low score would have played a critical role for not getting any IV calls..
[2 big issues you have self identified - late application, low step 1 score. low score you cant fix, late application you can]
I am well aware.. the scramble and increase my chances of getting IVs for the 2014 match.
[SOAP has not been very kind to IMG applicants especially if they are based out of US. Chance of applying in 2014 > matching in SOAP 2013 >>> not applying to SOAP 2013 = 0]
I wish to match in a IM/Radiology program...[Radiology may be tougher of the two but possible. Use your US radio connections to see if they can help you secure interview in addition to improving you application]
Good luck.
Hello Droidor.
DeleteThank you for your prompt reply.
So what else should I be doing to make application near good/excellent in addition to getting a higher score on the step 3??. Things that catch the eye of program directors or program committee..?
What about the LoRs that I have got? how much of a role do they play? Because giving up isn't an option and I want to explore every possible avenue available.
You say Radiology might be difficult..With my scores and application would it realistically be probable/possible or I shouldn't bother with it at all..Coz all of my research it Radiology based,hence I was thinking that could help me out...?
Once again I owe a debt of gratitude for your candour.
Thank you..
check the series of articles that are based on what program directors are looking for in the candidates.http://www.mleresidencytips.com/p/secrets-of-match-success.html
Deleteif you are convinced that your letters are strong enough then you can reuse them. reassess where your strengths and weaknesses are. ask your self how motivated are you to pursue 1. radiology 2. radiology in US 3. residency in US. if you want to do radiology for love of it, consider training in home country. If you want to radiology and do it in US, it is tough but stick it out and see what happens. If you just want to do residency in US and dont care about specialty, then apply to other specialties.
I most certainly want to do a residency in the United states alone. I am aware of the competitive nature of radiology. I only flirted with the idea because my research predominates around Cardiovascular CT. And in the near future I am presenting an abstract at the SCCT(Society of cardiovascular CT). However I wanna do IM coz I eventually pave my path to Cardiology.
DeleteSo it is wise to pursue for IM since I have so much invested? OR Based on my Scores, it's going to be a shot in the dark hoping to strike, despite all the extra stuff I have done to bolster my CV?
i am an IMG graduated in 2012 , i failed on my 1st attempt on step1 and as i see my any chance of getting matched in 2105 is in the feild of pediatrics.im planning to do 4 months of USCE and get very strong score on all the steps. since i have recently given step1 im planning to go for step2 first and then step1 .Is my plan good enough? how much target should i set up? and do i really have a shot at pediatrics?
ReplyDeleteattempts on step 1 are a big stumbling block to overcome but they can be surmounted. as it stands, its hard to say if you have a good/fair/poor chance because you are too early in the application process. with one attempt in step 1 already you are starting at a big disadvantage but make sure you do not accumulate any more handicaps. there are several other issues and avenues that can help getting residency. read on some of the articles in the section: http://www.mleresidencytips.com/p/secrets-of-match-success.html
DeleteHi friends, I am an old IMG from India 2001 graduate. Did PhD in Cancer Genetics with 1o publications, in journals like Molecular cell, EMBO Molecular medicine, Cell cycle, Genomics etc. My publications were highlighted by f1000 medicine and Nature Genetics. After PhD I worked as a postdoc in Pharmacogenomics and Personalized Medicine at Mayo clinic. I scored 242 in USMLE step 1.
ReplyDeleteWhat are the chances of getting in IM/ Ped residency?
hi Cooldoc you have very nice credentials! with excellent scores in step 1, you should focus on maintaining your performance in step 2, CK and 3 as well. You have an older year of graduation but since you have been busy and being productive, i anticipate it will not affect your chances much. IM/or peds is a great residency to get in in view of your research. Use your connections at Mayo to endorse your application when the time comes. Good luck!
Deletehi friends, i am an old IMG from EGYPT 2001 graduate ,i am american citizen, i appeared in usmle step1 but have failed,i need your advice about which is the best, do i reappear again in the usmle or search for alternative ? and what are the alternatives? thx
ReplyDeletethere are 2 things going against you and neither of them are permissive to forgiveness. It depends on how motivated are you to pursue medical education in US. If not, then i'd say no point in pushing yourself into more debt and more frustration when the odds are stacked against you. Ig you think this is what you want to do in life, then set your drawbacks in a your line of sight and tackle them head on. improve your CV. prepare for exams again and work on connections. Good luck!
DeleteHello Droidor, I am following another one of your posts. I used the residency chances calculator. It stated that my chances are 60-80% but I didn't get any interviews for the 2013 match, second year applying. These were the responses:
ReplyDelete1. Hands on clinical experience
2. IM
3. Green Card + IMG
4. 5-8yrs since graduation (2005)
5. Taste of research, few abstracts and few posters
6. Step 3 80-88 (87)
7. Not a member of AOA (Alpha Omega Alpha)
8. Step 1 below 89 (75)
9. Master's in Public Health
10. Multiple step 1 attempts (three)
11. Fair connections - friends are residents
12. Applied to 150+ programs (100 IM, 60 Psych and 20 FM)
13. Step 2 below 89 (78)
14. No multiple attempts on CS
15. No multiple attempts on CK
I was wondering if you could discuss this a little more. I assumed it was because of my Step 1 performance that I didn't get any interviews. But in another one of your posts you stated that Step 3 is also important. Based on that I should have got some interviews. What else should I do? I am doing research right now and will apply again this September. Your input will be helpful.
HI resident2013, you bring up a good point. The algorithm is limited in the way it computes answers. The way it is designed, there is no way for peer weighted questions even though there is a weighted sub context for individual questions. Thus some factors like step 1 score or YOG which are inherently more important in real life simulation are not given as much consideration in this algorithm. That is the way the quiz based method is programmed,and I understand its limitations, hence the disclaimer :). The biggest issue with your application is step 1 and 2 score, step 1 attempts and your YOG being not so recent. Also another issue I notice is that you applied to 180 programs but the applications were not in all one field. the chances are better when you apply to as many programs in one field. doing so you have halved your interview chances in medicine, reduced your psych by 66% and your FM chances by 90% .
Deletehi dr in 1st attempt i did not study yet i just take the usmle world questions that the only thing i prepared for the exam with ,so this time i am preparing so well,plz if you have any study plan plz help me, for now i am doing kaplan then i will do first aid for 2 times and finaly i will do usmle world
ReplyDeleteHello Dr. Needing help, you need to come up with a robust training plan and stick with it. you have identified a big flaw with your preparation in the first attempt - did not study and did only the question bank. as long as your realize your mistake and rectify it, you should be able to perform better than your previous scores.
Deletehi dear Droidor
ReplyDeleteHow can I find out the free research position of any cities in US?
regards
A-T
Hello Dr. Azi,your best resource is looking for things online. Get a list of graduate school in the area you want to focus on and write to the faculty and PI if the need research volunteers. email or direct contact is often the best way of getting this done.
DeleteI most certainly want to do a residency in the United states alone. I am aware of the competitive nature of radiology. I only flirted with the idea because my research predominates around Cardiovascular CT. And in the near future I am presenting an abstract at the SCCT(Society of cardiovascular CT). However I want do IM so I can eventually pave my path to Cardiology.
ReplyDeleteSo it is wise to pursue for IM since I have so much invested? OR Based on my Scores, it's going to be a shot in the dark hoping to strike, despite all the extra stuff I have done to bolster my CV? Also I am working closely with the Chief Of Cardiology at a teaching hospital in NYC. How much would a LoR from him bare weight on my CV?
if your final goal is cardiology, then it makes most sense to pursue IM irrespective how you feel your chances are. you can mold your research experience to show an interest in cardiology. This research in itself will not be of as much help as scores and the extra stuff on your CV. Can you have the chief of cardiology at the NYC hospital put in a personal word for you? That would be the best situation for you. Hi CV will certainly be helpful.
DeleteHello Droidor,
ReplyDeleteI wanted to know that if an IMG wants to get into a neurosurgical residency program ( which i know is super competitive) than what is the best option to chose in order to enhance their chances of acceptance,
1. do a phd in neuroscience from an american university n also try to stay in touch with the clinical side through observeships and rotations etc,
2. do a neurosurgical residency training in your home country n some research too n then apply for US neurosurgical residency.
3. do a neurology residency in US n then apply for neurosurgical residency.
4. do a general surgery residency ( also quite competitive) in america n then apply for neurosurgical residency. ( i know this sounds stupid but its still an option :P)
so yh which option has more chances n can make an IMG a strong candidate cuz all these options require more or less the same amount of time n effort. PLEASE Do Reply :)
All issues set aside based solely on the options listed I would think:
Delete4 > 3 > 1 > 2.
Could you make a revision of this quiz using the 3 digit scores?
ReplyDeletethanks! I will try and revise the algorithm soon.
DeleteDear Droider,
ReplyDeleteI am a FMG.My graduation year is 2009 December(almost 2010).I am a permanent resident and dont need visa sponsorship.I have score of 239 in both steps.I passed CS and step 3 in the first attempt.I have two American LORs.I have done observerhips in 4 different places( 2 in clinics).What are my chances for getting match this year? I am too worried about my graduation year.How much does it influence on my chances of getting matched?Can you please provide your view on my situation.
Seems like you have been busy keeping your CV rolling since your graduation. I would not be too worried about the graduation year. you have good scores and had US clinical experience. Its a good application profile. Good luck!
DeleteHi, Thank you for a wonderful app. I am in a dilenma. I have a Step 1 score of 238 on first attempt,passed CS on first attempt, yet to take CK yet. Was supposed to take it in a weeks time, but i want to cross the 250's so i am thinking of postponing it. Is it worth it to postpone my exam to score higher and apply late? I am going to be applying late either ways as even if I take the exam on the intended date sep 23, the results wont be out till mid october! So far I have an MPH, 8 publications, green card holder, IMG grad 2008.? Please advice me.
ReplyDeleteapplying on time is as essential as a good score. If you are applying late anyways, then best to appear for the exam when you feel are best prepared. Other than that, your other quals seem good! good luck!
DeleteHello Droidor,
ReplyDeleteI am writing to you again for your advice and input. My credentials are YOG 2005, Step 1 185 (third attempt), Step 2 Ck 191(first attempt), Step 2 CS first attempt pass, 15 months hand on, about 4 months observership, one publication in home country, MPH degree, currently working as a research assistant. As you had suggested a few months back, this time I am applying to more programs, 150-175 IM and 125-150 Psych. I would really appreciate your input on two questions. I will finish applying by September 18th. Some people I know have made me nervous because they said that September 18th is still considered late. Is that true? Even three days out is considered late?
I am working 3 part time research jobs currently. One is in schizoprenia research (since Dec 2012) and another was with a new anti-addiction drug. The third position is in the department of neurology with excitation delirium. Based on these, I also want to apply to 100-110 neurology programs. I have no USCE or LORs in neuro. Do you think this is a good idea? Should I apply to 100-110 FM programs instead? As always, your advice will be very helpful. Thanks!
hi,
ReplyDelete1 doubt.what does it means by need visa but not eligible??
Thanks!
HI Abhishek, check out the Section 212(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act subsection to Visa ineligibility.
Deleteya got it.
Deletethanks
:)
Hi,
ReplyDeleteMy scores are 220/226/pass/196 for step 1,2ck,2cs,3 respectively.All first attempts.8 months observer ship exp in private clinics in the US.2010 grad. FMG who need visa sponsorship.What are my chances?
Thanks in advance
I am planning for IM or Peds
DeleteHave you plugged in the stats in the app above? use average response value if you dont know the answer or if it is not applicable to you.
Deletehey,
ReplyDeletethanks for helping us so much.I am back with a ques :)
In my third year of mbbs i cud not appear for my ophthal exam coz i had some health prob.so i had to clear it in 2nd attempt.will that be a roadblock 4 me in getting iv's???
your performance in one exam in MBBS may not affect your chances of getting interviews as much. Focus on your scores and fulfilling the major criteria.
DeleteHello,Droidor. Thank you for doing what you do. I found a lot of usefull info on your blog.I hope you can spend couple minutes reading my story. I'd really appreciate your advice.
ReplyDeleteI'm an ancient grad of 1998 from Russia. Came to US about 10 years ago, spent 2 years getting papers etc.Then started as medical assistant,took some classes,got RN lic and for the past 6 years working as a RN .
I'm recently in a Master's APRN programm at State university,first year. All this time was thinking about taking USMLE but never had time or may be willpower to start it.
I'm not genius, so my scores would be avarage at best.
My only child is away in college, my wife is a RN as well. We are making OK money, I'm happy in general but sometimes I think that I should take USMLE exams and it bugs me.
I'm wondering what are my chances to get any residency with resume like this and avarage scores would be.
Thank you for you input in advance.
Dmitry
Hello Dr. DImitry, I think you have a very unique profile and you should definitely follow your dreams to appear for USMLE. after all, if you do not try - your chance is zero. if you at least try for residency you chance is always better than none. You have been constantly engaged in medical practice - and evolving and promoting your professional responsibility so that demonstrates ambition. One does not need to be a genius to crack the USMLE - just find enough time and right study material and ace the test. If you do amazingly well on the exam, then your application will stand out as unique!! Your scores being average is a non issue since you have not appeared for the exam. Good luck! follow your dreams
DeleteHello Droidor; I'm newly graduated FMG. And I am craving for psychiatry residency in US. I have 2 Q's:
ReplyDelete1.How much important the gap on resume? I graduated in 21 Aug 2013 and still didn't write any exam. Iam keeping study for step-1. And I accepted to for Family Medicine residency in my home country. It will start on 20th December. I couldn't made a decision to sarting residency or not. I have 2 options. What is your opinion about my situation:
1.Staying at home and writing the step-1 as fast as possible and with good score. Also during this time I can adjust 3 or 4 month observership in Psychiatry in at Home university. (I dont have any idea about are they regarding observership at home university?) In this way I'll take the exam at the April 2014.
2.Starting the residency, which will delay my taking exam time a couple month. Also prevent to condence studying step-1. In this way I will take the exam at the end of may.
Thanks a lot!
Usually just staying at home is never a good idea - although it is ideal for exam preparation. Appearing for USMLE as fast as possible is good BUT you have to make sure that you are well prepared. A poor score will stay with you for 7 years, so it may be okay to pace yourself and not worry about the gap too much which in your case wont be a big issue (you are a recent grad and you are going to be busy with clinical duties in the interim)
DeleteHello . I am just done with my medical graduation . I l b giving my step 1 and 2 this year. I want to pursue my specialization in neurosurgery and I seem to have no flexibility in this option. I do know that getting residency in neurosurgery is really difficult for a non usa grad . But i want to know on how do i get neurosurgery ? Their must be some way . Please help me through it .
ReplyDeleteThankyou
neurosurgery is a difficult proposition for an IMG since there are fewer vacancies and many applicants. I think you should focus on your USMLE scores at present and depending on how you perform consider your options. 1 way is to score really well (250+) in all steps and apply for a rotation in neurosurgery which in turn will help with Letter of recommendation from US faculty.
Deletehi , i am FMG from india . your are doing great job giving valuable advise. I got 234 in step1 1st attempt that i took on feb 20 2014. i was graduated in may 2013. i want to apply for residency program in internal medicine. i want to know whether my step1 score is ok to proceed further for step2 and future matching or not sufficient? can u please give me advise ........thanks in dvance.
ReplyDeleteThe residency application "packet' is an aggregate of certain requirements and parameters of the applicant, of which USMLE step 1 is ONE of the required items. Just a step 1 score is never sufficient but always necessary for residency applications, so if you want to do residency then you have to appear for other exams - a decision that is based regardless on how you perform on one exam. Hope this helps. Thanks
DeleteI wish it took into account MD residency in home country.. I have it in internal medicine..
ReplyDeleteHello Dr. Anavrin, fortunately, one way it will count is in the "gap in medical education section". Thus by doing a residency in internal medicine in home country you demonstrated
Delete1. Interest in internal medicine
2. Interest in continuing to progress academically in your field of choice
3. Did not have a gap
These factors will certainly add up to something when you apply
Hell Droidor, I would appreciate some advice. I went on a leave of absence from a U.S. MD school at the end of my 3rd year due to failing multiple shelves, because of some family and emotional problems. During the leave, I decided to take Step 2 CS, which I failed. After, the leave, my medical school unfortunately decided to dismiss me, resulting in me applying to the Caribbean. With a 213 on Step 1, and no other credentials to speak of, I was just wondering if I am going down a path with any hope. I would appreciate your thoughts!
ReplyDeletehi Dr. Ben,
Deleteyou are certainly starting at a disadvantaged position. The question of whether you are doing the right thing is tough but take solace to know that the answer is only one. It is the choice you make. Some things you need to reflect upon are how motivated are you to continue this effort, is this something you are willing to sacrifice present time and money for? what could you do as an alternate career. These questions need a lot of self searching but hopefully help you answer your query. One thing I will comment on - residency matching to me is like a lottery, you can only better the odds of winning by doing certain things but finally it is still a lottery. A poor applicant may hypothetically have a a very poor chance but it is stil >0. if you decide to not apply at all or not pursue this, the chance is zero. Realizing, when the odds are so against you that it is futile to continue is something you will have to think about.
Thank you so much for the reply. I am studying for Step 2 CK, to hopefully do well, and am redoing all rotations. I am hoping my narrative and interpersonal skills will count for something when applying to residencies.
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ReplyDeleteHi Droidor. I'm a FMG from Italy. I'm a resident at the second year of Family medicine in my country. I graduated in October 2011. My step 1 is 250, and I am planning to take my step 2ck by the end of this year... I had little research experience during my Medical school, only 3 abstracts, but unfortunately no pubblications. No US experience till now. I hope I will obtain some USCE before my step 2 CS and apply for the 2016 match, because I prefer ending my residency before leaving. Is a 5 years gap from my YOG a huge one? What are my chances to enter Internal medicine residency if I'll score well in my step2ck? Is neurology very competitive? What are my chances?
ReplyDeleteHi there . I am from Nepal. I am an old medical graduate ( graduated in 2007 ) and since then working as a medical officer. I recently got Permanent residence of Canada. As residency opportunities in canada are limited in comparison to US so I am planning to appear for USMLE side by side to increase my chance of residency either in US or Canada .
ReplyDeleteI am appearing for step 1 in this December . And if everything goes well I will apply for match on 2016 . I heard that chances of getting residency is low for old medical graduate . Is it so?some of my friends suggested me to join Internal medicine residency in home country so that if I apply for match in 2017 my chances will be better than now .but by doing this I will have to wait for one more year ( as with my present time I'll be applying for 2016 but after Joining residency I will be applying only on 2017) . Well I am curious about this thing and want to know the best option ! Thank you in advance .
hello!
ReplyDeletei'm an old IMG whose dream was to be a pediatrician in the US! But easier dream t than done! Unfortunately, I failed twice on CK in 2008, 2009.
I want to give up on my dreams: but that's hard too! Do I have any chances if I start with the steps again, given the fact that I am on old graduate?
I also did peds observer ship in US and have LOR and have some research experience.
I really need an honest answer as it will help my decision
thanks
I'm an IMG from India. I have completed my graduation. I do not have any USCE or any research experience. I wish to pursue usmle and would like to start preparing now. Would I be able to complete all steps and get some experience for applying in Sept 2015.Is there enough time for getting my profile ready by next year.
ReplyDeleteI have graduated in April this year
Deletehi,
ReplyDeletei have gradutaed in 2004. now, preparing for USMLE. taking Exam in november.
i am pg from india, with work experience of nearly 4 years with 1,2 research publications.
what are the chances of me, getting match in US examx.please guide. old gradute years carry how much weitage.. really worried.
shall i continue or drop my preparation.
Hi Droder
ReplyDeleteI am an older scholar (47) with a PhD and postdoc from USA (during the 90s). Several years of teaching and research experience in Biomedical sciences abroad, as well. I am thinking of going to med school in the Caribbean. What are my chances of getting into a residency program in the USA. I am interested in concerned about the age issues. Which fields would be more suitable for older graduates?
Thanks
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ReplyDeleteHi
ReplyDeleteI am an IMG, graduated in 2008, have work experience of a radiologist in my home country, have almost no gap in my CV.Currently I am a permanent resident of US. I have an observership experience in the US.
My first attempt of step 1 I failed, second attempt barely passed (score 195), step 2 ck I failed (...Now I am totally confused about what to do next- refuse of everything, or go ahead and take the step 2 ck a second time, changing my strategy and trying the best to score 99? What are my chances to get into a Ped, IM or FM residency program, if I also gain more US experience by involving into a research program?
Please your recommendation about my situation