A Step-by-Step Guide to Navigating the U.S. Residency Match

The AMSA Residency Prep Series is a comprehensive, multi-session program designed to support both international and domestic medical students as they navigate the residency application and Match process. Through expert-led workshops and practical guidance, the series covers every major step of the journey—from securing U.S. clinical experience and strong letters of recommendation to crafting compelling personal statements, mastering ERAS, preparing for interviews, and building effective rank lists.

With sessions tailored to the unique needs of International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and U.S. medical students, participants will gain essential insights into visas, ECFMG certification, USMLE planning, program selection, and Match strategies. The series also emphasizes professional development, wellness, and resilience to help students prepare confidently for a successful transition into residency.

Join us for this step-by-step guide to position yourself for success in the residency match — whether you’re applying from the U.S. or abroad. Don’t miss this chance to learn from experts and set yourself up for match success!

Program Details:

• Registration Deadline: February 20, 2026

• Start Date: February 21, 2026

• End Date: January 2027

• Meeting Times: Saturdays, 10:00 – 11:00 AM ET

• Cost: $25 for AMSA members | $75 for non-members

What This Series Covers

✔ U.S. clinical experience and letters of recommendation
✔ IMG-specific strategy and positioning
✔ Visas, ECFMG certification, and USMLE planning
✔ Personal statements and professional storytelling
✔ Fourth-year planning and ERAS preparation
✔ Interview skills, rank list strategy, and SOAP readiness

Each session is designed to be actionable, realistic, and grounded in what residency programs are actually looking for.

Session Breakdown

Session 1: Get U.S. Ready — US Clinical Experience & Letters That Matter

Audience: International Students

Date: February 21, 2026

Learn how to secure meaningful U.S. clinical experience and build professional relationships that translate into strong, credible letters of recommendation. This session focuses on networking, observerships and externships, and what residency programs expect from IMG applicants.

Key Topics Include:

• Finding observerships and externships

• Building a U.S. professional network

• Securing strong letters of recommendation as an IMG

• Understanding what residency programs look for in IMG candidates

Session 2: Match Like a Pro — IMG Strategy & Crafting Your Narrative

Audience: International Students

Date: March 28, 2026

Position yourself as a competitive IMG by learning how to tell your story with intention and strategy. This session addresses program targeting, ranking strategy, and contingency planning.

Key Topics Include:

• Positioning yourself as a strong IMG applicant

• Identifying IMG-friendly programs

• Personal statement storytelling strategies

• Realistic vs. aspirational rank lists

• How SOAP works for IMGs

• Emergency planning if you don’t match

Session 3: IMG Roadmap — Visas, ECFMG & USMLE Steps for Success

Audience: International Students

Date: April 18, 2026

A practical overview of certification requirements, exams, and visa pathways — all in one place.

Key Topics Include:

• ECFMG certification requirements

• Visa pathways (J-1 vs. H-1B)

• OET and USMLE timeline planning

• Key documentation and deadlines

• Common IMG application mistakes to avoid

Session 4: Crafting Your Narrative & Preparing for Residency Applications

Audience: Domestic Students

Date: March 2026

Residency programs want more than a résumé — they want to understand your journey. This session helps students articulate their story with clarity and confidence.

Key Topics Include:

• Defining your journey through medicine

• Clarifying the “why” behind your specialty choice

• Personal statement framework and best practices

• Transitioning into a growth mindset

• Mapping meaningful experiences (clinical, research, leadership, life)

• Mentorship vs. sponsorship

Session 5: Your Fourth Year, Done Right — A Practical Guide to Residency Prep

Audience: Domestic Students

Date: April 2026

Fourth year is about strategy, timing, and balance. Learn how to make intentional decisions that support a strong residency application — without burning out.

Key Topics Include:

• Application and timeline planning

• Choosing rotations strategically

• Navigating VSLO and elective opportunities

• Securing strong letters of recommendation

• Financial planning during fourth year

• Mental health, wellness, and burnout prevention

Session 6: Crush Your ERAS — Crafting the Ultimate Application

Audience: Domestic Students

Date: May 2026

ERAS is more than a form — it’s your professional narrative. This session breaks down how to submit a polished, competitive application.

Key Topics Include:

• Building a compelling ERAS application

• Writing an unforgettable personal statement

• Selecting the right residency programs

• Letters of recommendation strategy

• MSPE pitfalls to avoid

Session 7: Own the Interview — How to Stand Out on the Big Day

Audience: International & Domestic Students

Date: October 2026

Interviews are where your application comes to life. Learn how to prepare, perform, and follow up with confidence.

Key Topics Include:

• Virtual vs. in-person interview strategies

• Behavioral questions and storytelling

• Researching programs effectively

• Post-interview etiquette and thank-you notes

Session 8: Smart Matching — Rank List Strategy & SOAP Prep

Audience: International & Domestic Students

Date: January 2027

End the cycle strong with a clear understanding of ranking strategy and contingency planning.

Key Topics Include:

• How the NRMP Match algorithm works

• Building a strategic Rank Order List

• What to do if you don’t match

• Understanding and preparing for SOAP

Who Should Attend?

• International medical students and graduates pursuing U.S. residency

• U.S. medical students preparing for ERAS and the Match

• Students seeking structured guidance, mentorship, and honest insight into the residency process

Why This Series?

The Residency Prep Series is built to fill the gaps traditional medical education often leaves behind — offering clarity, strategy, and real-world insight so students can move forward with confidence and purpose.