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Page 1: Results of the 2020 NRMP Program Director Survey€¦ · NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 1 In March 2020, the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) conducted its biennial

Results of the 2020 NRMP Program Director Survey

www.nrmp.org

August 2020

Page 2: Results of the 2020 NRMP Program Director Survey€¦ · NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 1 In March 2020, the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) conducted its biennial

Questions about the contents of this publication may be directed to National Resident Matching Program, (202) 400-2233 or [email protected].

Questions about the NRMP should be directed to Donna L. Lamb, D.HSc., M.B.A., B.S.N., President and CEO, National Resident Matching Program, (202) 400-2233 or [email protected].

Suggested CitationNational Resident Matching Program, Data Release and Research Committee: Results of the

2020 NRMP Program Director Survey. National Resident Matching Program, Washington, DC. 2020.

Copyright © 2020 National Resident Matching Program. All rights reserved. Permission to use, copy and/or distribute any documentation and/or related images from this publication shall be

expressly obtained from the NRMP.

Page 3: Results of the 2020 NRMP Program Director Survey€¦ · NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 1 In March 2020, the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) conducted its biennial

Table of Contents

Introduction ................................................................................................................................................. 1 All Specialties Charts for Individual Specialties Anesthesiology .............................................................................................................................................. 9 Child Neurology .......................................................................................................................................... 16 Dermatology ............................................................................................................................................... 23 Emergency Medicine .................................................................................................................................. 30 Family Medicine ......................................................................................................................................... 37 Internal Medicine ........................................................................................................................................ 44 Internal Medicine/Pediatrics ....................................................................................................................... 51 Interventional Radiology ............................................................................................................................. 58 Neurological Surgery .................................................................................................................................. 65 Neurology ................................................................................................................................................... 72 Obstetrics and Gynecology ......................................................................................................................... 79 Orthopaedic Surgery ................................................................................................................................... 86 Otolaryngology ........................................................................................................................................... 93 Pathology .................................................................................................................................................. 100 Pediatrics ................................................................................................................................................... 107 Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation ...................................................................................................... 114 Plastic Surgery .......................................................................................................................................... 121 Psychiatry .................................................................................................................................................. 128 Radiation Oncology .................................................................................................................................. 135 Radiology-Diagnostic ............................................................................................................................... 142 Surgery ..................................................................................................................................................... 149 Transitional Year ...................................................................................................................................... 156

Page 4: Results of the 2020 NRMP Program Director Survey€¦ · NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 1 In March 2020, the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) conducted its biennial

Introduction

1NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020

In March 2020, the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) conducted its biennial survey of the directors of all programs participating in the Main Residency Match®. The primary purpose of the survey was to shed light on the factors that program directors use to (1) select applicants to interview and (2) rank applicants for the Match.

The survey was fielded during the 18 days between the Rank Order List Deadline and Match Week so that program match outcomes would not influence respondents' answers.

The survey solicited information on: the number of applications received, screened, and

reviewed, as well as the number of applicants interviewed and ranked

the frequency with which programs interview and rank specific applicant groups

use of test scores in considering which applicants to interview, and

the factors used for both interview selection and for ranking applicants.

The overall response rate for all specialties in this report was 18.0 percent. Transitional Year programs and programs in 22 specialties with 10 or more responses are included in this report. Response rates are listed in the table below.

In the 2020 Program Director Survey, several new questions were added to learn more about the recruitment process at the program level including whether programs would offer more invitations than interview slots as well as reasons for that practice; time allowed for applicants to respond to interview invitations; and how programs scheduled interviews.

Numbers of responses are presented in most of the graphs, and some graphs use data from multiple survey questions. In those cases, different N's are listed. Numbers of applicants ranked and positions in the Match are extracted from the NRMP database. Graphs are suppressed for questions with fewer than five responses.

This report presents results by specialty on selected items from the survey. The NRMP hopes that program directors, medical school officials, and applicants find these data useful as they prepare for and participate in the Main Residency Match._______________

The NRMP's data reporting and research activities are guided by its Data Release and Research Committee. NRMP data and reports can be found at: www.nrmp.org/main-residency-match-data/.

Specialty Surveys Sent Number Responding Response Rate

Anesthesiology 191 33 17.3%

Child Neurology 77 20 26.0%

Dermatology 142 16 11.3%

Emergency Medicine 248 59 23.8%

Family Medicine 635 142 22.4%

Internal Medicine 854 69 8.1%

Internal Medicine/Pediatrics 77 10 13.0%

Interventional Radiology (Integrated) 84 19 22.6%

Neurological Surgery 112 20 17.9%

Neurology 164 30 18.3%

Obstetrics  and Gynecology 288 73 25.3%

Orthopaedic Surgery 189 49 25.9%

Otolaryngology 118 30 25.4%

Pathology‐Anatomic and Clinical 136 29 21.3%

Pediatrics 228 52 22.8%

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 105 21 20.0%

Plastic Surgery (Integrated) 82 16 19.5%

Psychiatry 250 57 22.8%

Radiation Oncology 85 17 20.0%

Radiology‐Diagnostic 195 36 18.5%

Surgery‐General 540 70 13.0%

Transitional Year 144 22 15.3%

Vascular Surgery 59 10 16.9%

All Others 140 24 17.1%

Total 5,143 924 18.0%

Page 5: Results of the 2020 NRMP Program Director Survey€¦ · NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 1 In March 2020, the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) conducted its biennial

All Specialties Combined(N=924)

Page 6: Results of the 2020 NRMP Program Director Survey€¦ · NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 1 In March 2020, the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) conducted its biennial

100% 50% 0%

90%84%

78%78%76%

70%69%66%66%65%65%63%62%62%61%60%57%56%52%51%51%50%48%47%46%45%44%41%40%36%

31%28%25%

21%20%20%15%10%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

1 2 3 4 5

4.04.3

4.03.94.0

4.44.0

4.34.5

4.04.3

4.24.2

4.54.2

4.03.93.9

3.74.4

3.84.04.0

3.53.6

4.03.73.84.0

3.74.7

4.13.9

3.63.8

3.23.33.5

Figure 1All SpecialtiesPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=650)

Percent Citing Factor Average Rating

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

3NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020

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100% 50% 0%

95%95%

89%88%

70%67%64%64%63%61%60%58%57%56%54%50%49%47%46%43%42%42%37%36%36%35%34%34%31%30%29%28%23%23%21%20%

18%18%17%16%11%11%10%8%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

All SpecialtiesPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=641)

Figure 2

1 2 3 4 5

4.84.84.84.7

4.13.94.0

4.34.7

4.44.3

4.04.44.4

3.84.04.14.0

4.44.04.0

3.94.2

3.84.4

3.94.04.04.1

3.83.83.83.9

3.74.7

3.94.0

3.83.94.03.9

3.43.4

3.7

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

4NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

Page 8: Results of the 2020 NRMP Program Director Survey€¦ · NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 1 In March 2020, the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) conducted its biennial

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

26%

36% 38%

Test Required?

All SpecialtiesProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure 3

USMLE Step 1 Scores

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

43%

55%

3%

Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Never Seldom Often

28%

57%

15%

Does your program consider applicants who fail theirLicensure test on the first attempt?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Never Seldom often

33%

57%

10%

Does your program consider applicants who fail theirLicensure test on the first attempt?

N=655N=651

N=651 N=629

N=171N=281N=337

USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

N=190

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol in the box represents the mean.

USMLE Step 2 CKUSMLE Step 1USMLE Step 2 CKUSMLE Step 1

5NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

6% 4%

90%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

41%45%

14%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=240%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

51% 49%

USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skills (CS)Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

25%

35%39%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=190%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

5% 2%

93%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

39%

12%

49%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=542 N=540

N=531 N=446

* DO seniors/graduates only

Figure 4 All SpecialtiesPrograms Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA

Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

N=644 N=542

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

6NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020

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0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Prior to Oct. 12019

October 2019 November2019

December2019

January 2020or later

18%

47%

22%

10%4%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During EachTime Period

All SpecialtiesProgram's Interview Activities Figure 5

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

Number ofpositions in the

Match

Number ofapplications

received

Number ofinterview

invitations sent

Number ofapplicantsinterviewed

Number ofapplicants ranked

6

789

107 86 74

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, InterviewInvitations Sent, and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applications rejectedbased on a standardized screening

process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

45%49%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=626 N=647N=663 N=668 N=669 N=668*N=924*

7NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Prior to Oct. 12019

October 2019 November2019

December2019

January 2020 orlater

1%

15%

32% 33%

19%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=649 N=632

Yes, 36%

No, 64%

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=685

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100

I wanted to ensure we had anadequate number of alternatecandidates in the event other

applicants cancelled at the last minute

I wanted to ensure all interview spotsfilled in a timely manner

I worried I would not fill all my interviewslots

Other

68%

39%

31%

24%

Reason for offering more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=245

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

1% 0% 1% 4%

15%

80%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitationsbefore extending invitations to other applicants

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

66%

19%

21%

How interviews were scheduled

N=676N=662

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0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

35% 35%

12%

23%

No communication otherthan receipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has

initiated contact withthe applicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

All SpecialtiesOther Topics Figure 6

N=638

8

0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.8

4.5

4.3

4.2

3.8

3.7

3.5

3.1

Importance of Factors in Assessing Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020

n=621

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian1% 4% 10%

26%17%

32%

67%

30%

5%

58%

26%

51%54%

51%

30%

56%94%

37%

64%

23% 29%17%

3%14%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian1% 7% 11%

26% 20%34%

67%

32%

5%

56%

25%

51%52%

48%

29%

54%94%

37%

65%

23% 28%17%

3%14%

Often Seldom Never

RankingFrequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

n=661 n=660

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Anesthesiology(N=33)

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 9

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Figure AN-1AnesthesiologyPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=25)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.34.4

4.23.5

4.04.2

3.94.5

4.84.2

4.54.4

4.24.8

4.54.5

3.94.3

3.94.9

3.64.24.1

3.73.7

4.04.2

3.84.3

3.65.0

4.34.3

4.04.0

3.83.03.0

100% 50% 0%

100%68%

88%60%

92%68%

76%72%

76%80%

64%80%

52%68%

60%48%

52%56%52%

56%56%

48%56%52%

44%40%40%36%

28%36%

12%

24%12%16%

8%20%8%4%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 10

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AnesthesiologyPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=25)

Figure AN-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.94.94.94.8

4.14.24.34.4

4.84.44.4

4.04.2

4.63.84.0

4.64.4

4.75

3.94.2

4.43.7

4.93.9

4.44.24.4

4.14.14.3

4.03.8

5.03.0

4.73.83.7

4.25.05.0

3.53.0

100% 50% 0%

100%100%

88%88%

56%88%

80%68%

72%48%

68%92%

76%56%

36%76%

36%36%

56%52%56%52%

40%44%40%

28%20%

40%28%

36%28%

12%16%20%8%4%

12%12%12%

24%16%8%8%4%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 11

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170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

AnesthesiologyProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure AN-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

36%

60%

4%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

40%

56%

4%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

21%

79%

0%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

12%

48%40%

Test Required?

N=24N=25

N=25N=25

N=11N=18 N=15 N=10

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 2 CKUSMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 2 CK

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 12

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

13%

70%

17%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=24

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

46%54%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

AnesthesiologyProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure AN-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

5%

50%45%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=190%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0%11%

89%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0%6%

94%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

24%

5%

71%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=24N=19

N=23 N=22

N=21 N=18

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 13

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Figure AN-5AnesthesiologyProgram's Interview Activities

0

200

400

600

800

1,000

1,200

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

10

1,033

168 143 125

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

48%43%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=26N=25N=33* N=26*N=26N=27

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=26

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

23%

47%

17%10%

4%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

1%

19%

35% 33%

12%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=25N=25

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

76%

20%

16%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

0% 0% 4% 4%

23%

69%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

I wanted to ensure we had an adequatenumber of alternate candidates in theevent other applicants cancelled at the

last minute

I wanted to ensure all interview spotsfilled in a timely manner

I worried I would not fill all my interviewslots

Other

70%

20%

20%

20%

Reason for offering more interview invitations to applicants thaninterview slots to fill

38%Yes

62%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=26

N=10

N=26N=25

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 14

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

5.0

4.9

5.0

5.0

4.8

4.6

4.4

4.5

3.9

4.4

3.6

3.4

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure AN-6AnesthesiologyProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=24

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

50%

33%

17%13%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication andinstead will initiate contactwith references and/or themedical school if needed

To be contacted by the applicant’s

medical school after program has initiated

contact with the applicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=24

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

4% 8% 8%24%

71%

16%

36% 24%

60% 60%

72%

25%

76%100%

64%72%

32% 32%

4% 4% 8%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian4% 8% 8%

24%

72%

16%

40%21%

58% 60%

72%

24%

76%100%

60%75%

33% 32%

4% 4% 8%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=25 n=25

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 15

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Child Neurology(N=20)

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 16

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Figure CN-1Child NeurologyPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=17)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

3.84.2

3.63.9

3.64.2

3.63.9

4.43.3

3.63.8

3.54.14.0

3.63.4

4.03.2

4.53.5

3.83.8

3.43.3

3.63.33.3

3.53.5

5.05.0

3.63.0

3.32.3

3.03.0

100% 50% 0%

88%82%

65%82%

65%76%76%

53%82%

71%59%

53%76%

53%59%

47%47%

59%59%

76%47%

53%24%

53%65%

41%53%53%

35%35%

24%12%

29%12%

35%24%24%24%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 17

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Child NeurologyPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=17)

Figure CN-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.74.64.64.5

4.03.8

3.64.1

4.44.3

3.73.8

4.44.2

3.63.73.93.8

4.52

3.44.0

3.83.0

4.53.3

4.33.7

4.03.0

3.33.8

3.63.5

4.73.7

4.52.72.8

5.03.2

3.03.0

3.5100% 50% 0%

100%100%100%

88%76%

71%53%53%

29%76%

41%59%

41%53%53%

41%41%

24%35%29%

47%35%

29%41%

24%24%18%18%

35%29%

35%24%

29%24%18%18%12%

29%24%

6%18%

6%6%

12%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 18

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170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

Child NeurologyProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure CN-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

24%

71%

6%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

35%

59%

6%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

41%

53%

6%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

12% 12%

76%

Test Required?

N=17N=17

N=17N=17

N=9 N=5

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 1

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 19

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

36%

50%

14%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=17

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

18%

82%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

Child NeurologyProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure CN-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

14%

29%

57%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=160%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0% 0%

100%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0%8%

92%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

14%7%

79%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=17N=16

N=14 N=14

N=14 N=12

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 20

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Figure CN-5Child NeurologyProgram's Interview Activities

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

Number ofpositions in the

Match

Number ofapplications

received

Number ofinterview

invitations sent

Number ofapplicantsinterviewed

Number ofapplicants ranked

2

117

36

24 22

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

36%

67%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=17N=16N=20* N=18*N=18N=17

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=18

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Prior to Oct. 12017

October 2017 November2017

December2017

January 2017or later

43% 40%

9% 8%0%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended DuringEach Time Period

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Prior to Oct. 12017

October 2017 November2017

December2017

January 2017or later

0%

16%

38%30%

15%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted DuringEach Time Period

N=16N=16

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

82%

0%

18%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

0% 0% 0% 0%

11%

89%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

I wanted to ensure we had an adequatenumber of alternate candidates in theevent other applicants cancelled at the

last minute

I wanted to ensure all interview spotsfilled in a timely manner

I worried I would not fill all my interviewslots

Other

86%

71%

86%

14%

Reason for offering more interview invitations to applicants thaninterview slots to fill

39%Yes

61%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=18

N=7

N=18N=17

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 21

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

4.7

4.8

4.8

4.5

4.6

4.3

3.4

3.7

3.6

3.1

2.8

2.9

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure CN-6Child NeurologyProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=17

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

53%

29%

18%12%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=17

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

6%19%

12%25%

87%

24%

53%

29%

50%76% 44%

13%

59%100%

41%

71%

31%

12%

31%18%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian

6%21%

12%24%

80%

29%

50%

29%

43%76% 47%

20%

53%100%

44%

71%

36%

12%

29%18%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=17 n=17

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 22

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Dermatology(N=16)

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 23

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Figure D-1DermatologyPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=12)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.34.5

4.04.0

4.54.34.54.5

4.94.4

4.04.24.44.5

4.03.8

4.03.7

4.04.5

4.13.5

4.53.8

3.64.5

3.93.9

3.64.5

4.34.3

3.73.5

3.33.5

100% 50% 0%

100%83%

67%83%

92%92%92%92%

67%83%

75%75%75%75%

83%33%

75%25%

83%33%

83%17%

67%83%

58%17%

58%67%

0%58%

33%25%

33%

25%50%50%

17%0%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 24

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DermatologyPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=12)

Figure D-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.84.74.74.6

4.34.04.0

4.64.44.4

4.34.34.4

4.04.0

4.3

4.14.3

4.44.0

4.34.2

4.04.1

4.54.7

3.33.5

4.04.3

4.04.0

3.84.3

3.74.0

5.0

3.8

100% 50% 0%

92%100%100%100%

67%67%

50%67%

75%58%

67%50%

58%58%

50%50%

0%67%

25%0%

67%8%

50%42%

8%67%

0%50%

25%25%

33%50%

25%33%

17%42%

25%8%

25%8%0%0%

33%0%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 25

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DermatologyProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure D-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

50% 50%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

67%

33%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

33%

67%

0%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0%

27%

73%

Test Required?

N=12N=12

N=11N=12

N=7

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 1

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

USMLE Step 1 not reported because of low response

rate

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 26

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0%

43%

57%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=11

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

36%

64%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

DermatologyProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure D-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0%

29%

71%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=100%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0% 0%

100%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0% 0%

100%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0%

29%

71%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=11N=10

N=7 N=7

N=7 N=6

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 27

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Figure D-5DermatologyProgram's Interview Activities

0

100

200

300

400

500

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

4

488

44 41 38

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

41%52%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=11N=11N=16* N=12*N=12N=12

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=12

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

3%

20%

62%

12%3%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

3% 2%10%

21%

64%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=11N=11

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

67%

17%

17%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

0% 0% 0%10% 10%

80%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

25%Yes

75%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=12

N=10N=12

Reasons for "offering more interview invitations to applicants

than interview slots to fill" not reported because of low response

rate.

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 28

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.7

4.9

4.3

4.4

4.0

3.8

4.1

3.3

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure D-6DermatologyProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=12

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

8%

33%25%

50%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=12

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

8%

33%

58%42%

58%

91%

58%58%

58%

42%58%

42%

9%

42%

100%

33%

8%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian

8%

27%

55%42%

58%

92%

50%

58%

55%

45%58%

42%

8%

50%

100%

33%18%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=12 n=12

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 29

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Emergency Medicine(N=59)

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 30

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Figure EM-1Emergency MedicinePercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=38)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

3.64.9

3.93.53.7

4.34.2

4.74.6

3.94.4

3.94.7

4.44.0

3.73.6

3.93.4

4.73.4

4.04.1

3.43.43.53.4

4.23.7

3.23.94.1

4.73.33.3

2.22.83.0

100% 50% 0%

95%97%

84%55%

63%76%

53%71%

76%55%

66%71%

63%45%

55%55%

66%68%

58%66%

47%66%

45%39%

50%39%

50%29%

39%26%18%

32%61%

11%11%

13%13%11%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 31

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Emergency MedicinePercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=38)

Figure EM-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.94.84.84.84.8

3.74.04.2

4.64.14.2

3.64.8

4.53.5

3.93.9

3.74.5

64.5

3.94.7

3.34.8

3.54.2

4.03.6

3.13.5

3.23.8

4.24.7

4.24.3

4.03.3

3.73.8

2.33.3

2.0100% 50% 0%

95%86%

68%81%

100%73%

81%46%

51%59%

51%43%

65%59%

38%41%

49%51%

54%62%

35%54%

49%43%

46%22%

35%24%14%22%

30%16%14%16%8%

16%54%

22%8%8%11%8%8%5%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 32

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170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

Emergency MedicineProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure EM-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

23%

72%

5%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

30%

68%

3%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

56%

44%

0%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

28%36% 36%

Test Required?

N=39N=39

N=39N=37

N=12N=17 N=14 N=11

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 2 CKUSMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 2 CK

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 33

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

43% 40%

17%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=39

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

33%

67%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

Emergency MedicineProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure EM-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

17%

37%46%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=320%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

9%3%

88%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

7% 3%

90%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

26%

11%

63%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=39N=32

N=35 N=35

N=35 N=30

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 34

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Figure EM-5Emergency MedicineProgram's Interview Activities

0

200

400

600

800

1,000

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

11

953

182139 126

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

29%

62%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=39N=38N=59* N=39*N=39N=39

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=39

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

11%

54%

19%11%

5%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

3%12%

33% 32%

20%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=39N=39

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

76%

7%

27%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

2% 0% 0%5%

15%

80%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

I wanted to ensure we had an adequatenumber of alternate candidates in theevent other applicants cancelled at the

last minute

I wanted to ensure all interview spotsfilled in a timely manner

I worried I would not fill all my interviewslots

Other

80%

35%

30%

30%

Reason for offering more interview invitations to applicants thaninterview slots to fill

49%Yes

51%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=41

N=20

N=41N=41

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 35

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

4.9

4.9

5.0

4.8

4.8

4.4

4.4

4.1

3.6

3.8

3.1

2.7

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure EM-6Emergency MedicineProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=38

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

22%

46%

5%

30%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=37

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

3% 3%

21%13%

41%56%

44%

74%

23%

67%

64%

59%41%

49%

100%

23%

74%

13%23%

3% 8%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian5% 3%

19% 18%

46%58%

45%

64%

19%

65%59%

51%39%

45%

100%

31%

78%

16%23%

3% 3%11%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=39 n=39

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 36

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Family Medicine(N=142)

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 37

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Figure FM-1Family MedicinePercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=97)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

3.64.1

3.94.03.9

4.53.7

4.24.1

3.74.3

4.13.9

4.54.2

4.04.0

3.63.5

4.14.1

3.93.9

3.23.7

3.93.7

3.64.0

3.34.7

4.13.8

3.63.2

2.93.43.6

100% 50% 0%

80%81%80%

84%73%

93%61%

64%76%

49%67%65%

51%62%61%

79%64%

80%32%

76%67%

78%40%38%36%

57%37%38%

74%8%

33%44%

11%

39%11%9%

25%20%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 38

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Family MedicinePercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=97)

Figure FM-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.94.84.84.7

3.93.6

3.94.3

4.64.6

4.33.8

4.34.4

4.03.7

4.14.04.0

74.0

3.63.9

3.64.04.14.0

3.74.03.93.8

3.03.8

3.44.6

3.54.04.24.2

3.94.0

3.72.3

3.8100% 50% 0%

98%95%90%91%

65%62%

76%66%

60%83%

67%63%57%

65%71%

41%72%

56%63%

71%33%

60%27%

20%61%

44%65%

31%44%

26%24%

6%15%17%21%11%4%

26%33%

23%16%14%3%

15%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 39

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170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

Family MedicineProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure FM-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

0%

55%

45%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

5%

66%

29%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

70%

29%

1%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

46%

32%

22%

Test Required?

N=97N=97

N=97N=94

N=21N=25 N=24 N=21

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 2 CKUSMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 2 CK

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 40

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

68%

31%

1%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=97

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

69%

31%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

Family MedicineProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure FM-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

45%

33%22%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=780%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

4% 0%

96%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

3% 1%

96%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

62%

10%

29%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=97N=78

N=97 N=94

N=94 N=76

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 41

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Figure FM-5Family MedicineProgram's Interview Activities

0

200

400

600

800

1,000

1,200

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

8

1,105

115 86 73

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

56%

34%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=89N=88N=142* N=97*N=98N=94

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=97

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

30%40%

17%9%

3%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

1%

23%

38%28%

10%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=93N=93

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

74%

12%

18%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

1% 0% 0% 1%

18%

82%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

I wanted to ensure we had an adequatenumber of alternate candidates in theevent other applicants cancelled at the

last minute

I wanted to ensure all interview spotsfilled in a timely manner

I worried I would not fill all my interviewslots

Other

65%

41%

27%

22%

Reason for offering more interview invitations to applicants thaninterview slots to fill

52%

Yes

48%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=98

N=51

N=99N=97

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 42

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

4.9

4.9

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.4

4.2

4.1

3.8

3.6

3.6

2.5

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure FM-6Family MedicineProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=92

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

44%35%

4%

23%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=93

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

1% 3%14%

34%

73%

36%

8%

65%

3%

69% 44%

52%

26%

52%92%

34%

97%

28%42%

15%1%

11%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian4% 3%

18%35%

73%

40%

9%

61%

2%

68% 39%

50%

26%

50%

91%

34%

98%

29%43%

15%1%

10%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=98 n=98

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 43

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Internal Medicine(N=69)

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 44

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Figure IM-1Internal MedicinePercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=44)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.14.0

4.43.9

4.24.3

3.94.24.4

4.14.2

4.03.9

4.74.24.1

3.94.2

4.04.3

3.74.3

3.93.4

3.74.1

4.03.7

4.23.7

4.84.1

3.73.6

3.33.3

3.23.4

100% 50% 0%

91%75%

93%70%

89%55%

77%55%

73%80%

48%57%

66%52%

57%84%

55%80%

48%59%

39%80%

57%50%52%

61%48%43%

61%27%

48%

34%16%

32%20%23%

27%16%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 45

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Internal MedicinePercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=44)

Figure IM-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.94.8

4.74.5

4.04.14.3

4.54.8

4.34.24.34.4

4.24.04.3

4.13.9

4.67

4.44.24.3

4.14.6

3.74.24.14.34.2

3.93.5

3.93.6

4.73.9

3.74.04.04.1

4.03.03.2

3.7100% 50% 0%

95%95%

86%82%

73%82%84%

68%77%

55%59%

80%36%

41%48%

64%73%

50%57%

70%43%

70%48%

36%48%

34%57%

41%55%

41%39%

23%39%

27%27%

16%7%

11%25%

34%2%

25%14%16%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 46

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170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

Internal MedicineProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure IM-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

18%

71%

11%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

20%

68%

11%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

32%

66%

2%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

25%

50%

25%

Test Required?

N=44N=45

N=44N=44

N=18N=27 N=25 N=17

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 2 CKUSMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 2 CK

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 47

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

28%

60%

13%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=44

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

68%

32%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

Internal MedicineProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure IM-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

22%

54%

24%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=370%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

3% 5%

92%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

6% 6%

89%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

41%

26%33%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=44N=37

N=40 N=41

N=39 N=35

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 48

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Figure IM-5Internal MedicineProgram's Interview Activities

0

400

800

1,200

1,600

2,000

2,400

Number ofpositions in the

Match

Number ofapplications

received

Number ofinterview invitations

sent

Number ofapplicantsinterviewed

Number ofapplicants ranked

8

2,118

199 170 141

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

59%

31%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=46N=44N=69* N=49*N=49N=47

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=49

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

18%

45%

22%

11%5%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

2%

20%

35%28%

15%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=47N=47

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

72%

15%

20%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

0% 0% 0% 2%

15%

83%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

I wanted to ensure we had an adequatenumber of alternate candidates in theevent other applicants cancelled at the

last minute

I wanted to ensure all interview spotsfilled in a timely manner

I worried I would not fill all my interviewslots

Other

65%

53%

59%

24%

Reason for offering more interview invitations to applicants thaninterview slots to fill

35%Yes

65%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=49

N=17

N=48N=46

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 49

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

4.9

4.9

4.8

4.9

4.8

4.7

4.4

4.4

4.2

3.9

3.7

3.1

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure IM-6Internal MedicineProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=42

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

50%

25%

11% 14%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=44

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

4% 11%2%

18% 11% 18%

60%

29%18%

58%

23%

49%

40%36%

40%

53%78%

31%

75%

33%49% 47%

18%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian

7%14%

5%16% 11%

21%

60%

32%11%

55%

20%

51%

43%37%

40%

52%82%

32%

75%

33%45% 42%

16%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=45 n=45

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 50

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Internal Medicine/Pediatrics(N=10)

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 51

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Figure IMP-1Internal Medicine/PediatricsPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=7)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.03.4

4.03.9

4.13.6

4.34.3

4.84.24.24.2

4.05.0

4.24.2

4.04.0

4.44.8

3.34.0

4.33.8

3.53.5

4.44.0

4.33.0

4.05.0

3.03.0

3.54.04.0

100% 50% 0%

100%71%71%

100%100%

71%86%

43%71%71%

86%86%

71%43%

71%71%

57%86%

71%57%

43%71%

57%57%

29%29%

71%57%57%

14%43%

29%

0%14%14%

29%14%14%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 52

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Internal Medicine/PediatricsPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=7)

Figure IMP-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.64.4

4.84.7

3.74.2

4.04.0

5.03.7

4.33.7

5.04.4

3.83.84.0

4.54.5

54.3

4.04.04.0

4.54.3

4.03.8

4.04.0

4.8

4.54.3

4.04.0

3.0

4.03.5

4.0100% 50% 0%

100%100%

86%86%

43%71%

86%57%

43%43%

86%86%

29%71%71%71%

43%57%57%

71%43%

71%71%71%

57%43%

57%57%

14%43%

57%0%

29%43%

29%14%0%0%14%0%0%

14%29%

14%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 53

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Internal Medicine/PediatricsProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure IMP-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

14%

43% 43%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

43%

29% 29%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

57%

43%

0%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

14% 14%

71%

Test Required?

N=7N=7

N=7N=7

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

USMLE Step 1 not reported because of low response

rate

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

USMLE Step 1 not reported because of low response

rate

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 54

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

67%

33%

0%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=7

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

43%

57%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

Internal Medicine/PediatricsProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure IMP-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

17% 17%

67%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=70%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0% 0%

100%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0% 0%

100%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

33%

17%

50%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=7N=7

N=6 N=6

N=6 N=6

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 55

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Figure IMP-5Internal Medicine/PediatricsProgram's Interview Activities

0

40

80

120

160

200

240

280

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

6

242

9877 75

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

32%

74%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=8N=7N=10* N=8*N=8N=8

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=8

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

34%

53%

11%3% 0%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

0%

25%

38%30%

7%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=8N=8

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

71%

14%

14%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

0% 0% 0%

13%

25%

63%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

38%Yes

63%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=8

N=8N=7

Reasons for "offering more interview invitations to applicants

than interview slots to fill" not reported because of low response

rate.

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 56

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

4.7

4.7

4.7

4.7

4.7

4.4

4.4

4.1

4.4

3.7

3.1

3.1

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure IMP-6Internal Medicine/PediatricsProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=7

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

14%

43%

0%

43%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=7

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

29%14%

43% 43%29%

86%

29%

43%

29%

43% 43% 71%

14%

71%

100%

29%

57%

14% 14%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian

33%

14%

43% 43%29%

86%

29%

50%

29%

43% 43% 71%

14%

71%

100%

17%

57%

14% 14%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=7 n=7

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 57

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Interventional Radiology(N=19)

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 58

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Figure IR-1Interventional RadiologyPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=11)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.14.3

3.73.4

4.14.4

3.94.6

4.14.0

4.34.4

3.64.3

4.03.83.8

3.03.83.8

3.13.5

3.03.2

4.03.0

4.03.63.53.43.53.4

4.04.0

3.82.8

4.04.0

100% 50% 0%

91%100%

64%73%

91%73%

82%64%

73%82%

100%64%

73%45%

64%45%45%

18%

73%45%

73%18%

27%82%

55%27%27%

64%

18%82%

36%55%

18%

9%36%36%

18%9%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 59

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Interventional RadiologyPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=11)

Figure IR-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.84.94.9

4.84.44.5

3.84.4

4.24.44.44.4

4.84.8

3.54.7

3.64.0

4.55

4.23.5

4.34.64.5

3.53.0

4.03.5

4.45.0

3.93.6

4.04.7

4.04.3

4.04.5

4.33.5

3.03.0

100% 50% 0%

91%100%

82%73%

91%73%

55%45%

55%45%

55%64%

73%82%

55%55%

45%45%

36%18%

45%18%

27%45%

18%36%

18%18%18%

45%9%

64%45%

18%27%

9%36%

27%9%

36%0%

18%9%9%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 60

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170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

Interventional RadiologyProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure IR-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

20%

80%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

9%

82%

9%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

27%

73%

0%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

18%27%

55%

Test Required?

N=11N=10

N=11N=11

N=8 N=7

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 1

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 61

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

38%

13%

50%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=11

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

36%

64%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

Interventional RadiologyProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure IR-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0%

13%

88%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=110%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

9%0%

91%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0% 0%

100%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0%

13%

88%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=11N=11

N=8 N=8

N=8 N=8

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 62

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Figure IR-5Interventional RadiologyProgram's Interview Activities

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

180

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

2

168

36 30 28

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

34%

72%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=11N=11N=19* N=11*N=11N=11

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=11

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

14%

70%

5%11%

0%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

1%10%

35% 32%

20%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=11N=11

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

45%

45%

9%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

0% 0% 0%

18%27%

55%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

27%Yes

73%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=11

N=11N=11

Reasons for "offering more interview invitations to applicants

than interview slots to fill" not reported because of low response

rate.

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 63

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

4.9

4.7

4.8

4.8

4.4

4.8

4.6

4.3

3.7

4.0

3.7

3.3

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure IR-6Interventional RadiologyProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=11

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

10%

60%

20%

10%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=10

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

9%18% 18%

45%

27%18%

64%55%

82%73%

55%

73%

73%100%

36% 36%

9% 9%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian

9%18% 18%

45%

27%18%

64% 45%

82%73%

55%

73%

73%100%

36%45%

9% 9%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=11 n=11

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 64

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Neurological Surgery(N=20)

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 65

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Figure NS-1Neurological SurgeryPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=13)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.24.8

4.04.4

3.84.9

4.34.0

5.04.04.2

4.64.64.64.7

3.84.7

4.03.3

4.04.0

3.83.73.7

4.44.0

3.74.0

4.35.0

3.83.7

5.04.7

3.53.0

100% 50% 0%

92%92%

54%62%62%

69%46%

69%23%

46%69%

38%38%

54%54%

31%54%

8%54%

0%38%

8%38%

23%54%

38%23%23%

8%69%

23%38%

46%8%

46%15%

8%0%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 66

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Neurological SurgeryPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=13)

Figure NS-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.94.94.94.8

4.34.04.24.3

4.94.9

4.53.9

4.24.8

4.54.2

3.84.44.3

04.4

4.04.5

3.4

4.04.04.2

4.54.04.0

4.44.04.0

5.04.3

3.63.5

4.03.5

4.03.0

3.5

100% 50% 0%

92%85%85%85%

92%69%

46%77%

62%69%

46%54%

69%62%

46%38%

31%62%

23%8%

38%8%

31%38%

0%38%

8%46%

31%23%15%

54%15%

23%15%

46%38%

46%8%

31%46%

8%15%

0%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 67

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170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

Neurological SurgeryProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure NS-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

54%46%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

70%

30%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

8%

92%

0%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

15%

31%

54%

Test Required?

N=13N=13

N=13N=10

N=12 N=7

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 1

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 68

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

33%

67%

0%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=13

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

38%

62%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

Neurological SurgeryProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure NS-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0%

67%

33%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=110%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

9% 9%

82%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0%

33%

67%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0%

67%

33%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=13N=11

N=3 N=3

N=3 N=3

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 69

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Figure NS-5Neurological SurgeryProgram's Interview Activities

0

40

80

120

160

200

240

280

320

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

2

283

46 34 28

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

55%45%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=13N=13N=20* N=13*N=13N=13

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=13

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

33%43%

11% 12%

0%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

6%11%

33% 33%

17%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=13N=13

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

54%

31%

15%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

8%0% 0%

15% 15%

62%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

I wanted to ensure we had an adequatenumber of alternate candidates in theevent other applicants cancelled at the

last minute

I wanted to ensure all interview spotsfilled in a timely manner

I worried I would not fill all my interviewslots

Other

50%

33%

50%

17%

Reason for offering more interview invitations to applicants thaninterview slots to fill

43%Yes

57%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=14

N=6

N=13N=13

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 70

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

4.8

4.3

4.5

4.3

3.8

3.8

4.0

4.1

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure NS-6Neurological SurgeryProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=12

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

33%

50%

17%8%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=12

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

62%69%

15%

69%

15%8%

54%

23%23%

77%92%

23%

54%

92%

46%

15%8% 8% 8% 8%

31%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian

9%

62% 67%

15%

69%

17%8%

45%

31% 25%

77%92%

23%

50%

92%

45%

8% 8% 8% 8% 8%

33%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=13 n=13

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 71

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Neurology(N=30)

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 72

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Figure N-1NeurologyPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=25)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

3.94.2

3.83.9

4.14.5

3.94.34.3

4.04.4

3.93.9

4.24.14.2

3.73.63.8

4.43.83.7

4.13.5

4.04.4

3.53.6

4.03.2

4.43.73.8

3.43.6

3.23.2

3.7100% 50% 0%

96%92%

84%84%

92%64%64%

76%68%

80%64%64%

68%76%

64%68%

36%44%

52%44%48%

44%44%

52%44%

48%52%

44%40%44%

32%24%

36%28%

20%20%

20%12%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 73

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NeurologyPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=25)

Figure N-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

5.04.9

4.74.5

4.23.8

3.64.3

4.74.5

3.94.14.24.3

3.74.04.1

3.74.5

83.93.94.0

4.44.5

3.63.9

3.64.5

3.84.0

3.84.3

3.64.4

3.43.6

3.33.8

3.43.7

3.33.0

3.5100% 50% 0%

100%100%100%

88%68%

72%64%

68%64%

68%56%

64%52%

64%60%

48%60%

44%60%

36%40%

28%32%32%

40%32%

36%24%

32%36%

20%24%20%20%20%20%

24%24%20%20%16%16%8%8%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 74

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170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

NeurologyProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure N-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

16%

84%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

17%

83%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

52%44%

4%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

28%32%

40%

Test Required?

N=25N=25

N=25N=24

N=6N=11 N=10 N=5

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 2 CKUSMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 2 CK

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 75

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

45%41%

14%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=24

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

50% 50%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

NeurologyProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure N-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

27%36% 36%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=230%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

9%0%

91%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

10%5%

85%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

38%

19%

43%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=24N=23

N=22 N=22

N=21 N=20

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 76

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Figure N-5NeurologyProgram's Interview Activities

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

6

519

92 71 59

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

40%

58%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=22N=21N=30* N=24*N=24N=23

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=24

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

23%

44%

20%

9%3%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

1%

20%

34% 33%

12%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=23N=23

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

67%

33%

8%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

0% 0% 0% 0%

12%

88%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

I wanted to ensure we had an adequatenumber of alternate candidates in theevent other applicants cancelled at the

last minute

I wanted to ensure all interview spotsfilled in a timely manner

I worried I would not fill all my interviewslots

Other

85%

31%

23%

8%

Reason for offering more interview invitations to applicants thaninterview slots to fill

52%Yes

48%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=25

N=13

N=25N=24

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 77

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

5.0

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.3

4.4

3.9

4.2

3.2

3.4

3.2

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure N-6NeurologyProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=24

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

25%

42%

21%17%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=24

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

4%16%

4% 8%

54%

12%4%

36%

24%

52%60%

64%

42%

64%96%

60%76%

32% 36%28%

4%

24%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian4%

16%4% 8%

54%

12%4%

56%

24%

56%

60%64%

42%

68%96%

40%

76%

28%36%

28%

4%20%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=25 n=25

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 78

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Obstetrics and Gynecology(N=73)

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 79

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Figure OG-1Obstetrics and GynecologyPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=56)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.14.0

4.33.94.1

4.34.14.3

4.74.14.24.34.3

4.74.3

4.14.14.1

3.84.6

3.94.24.1

3.63.7

4.03.93.94.1

3.54.8

4.23.43.53.5

3.33.53.7

100% 50% 0%

95%88%82%77%71%

55%70%

61%75%70%

63%64%

68%64%64%64%

57%52%52%52%

41%41%39%

43%50%

41%63%

39%

36%36%32%

21%13%

27%23%

14%7%5%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 80

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Obstetrics and GynecologyPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=56)

Figure OG-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.94.84.94.8

3.94.24.24.3

4.74.34.3

3.94.34.3

3.64.0

4.34.14.2

74.0

4.34.1

3.94.4

3.94.4

4.14.0

3.84.0

3.43.7

3.94.7

3.73.3

4.34.0

4.33.8

4.72.8

4.7100% 50% 0%

93%93%93%93%

55%59%

63%66%66%

52%55%

46%55%50%

41%48%43%43%38%36%32%29%

43%29%29%25%25%

32%18%

29%36%

25%21%21%18%21%11%11%14%5%

14%5%

11%5%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 81

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170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

Obstetrics and GynecologyProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure OG-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

33%

61%

5%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

50% 50%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

33%

63%

4%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

28%

53%

19%

Test Required?

N=57N=57

N=57N=56

N=27N=34 N=25 N=21

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 2 CKUSMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 2 CK

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 82

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

27%

54%

19%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=55

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

67%

33%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

Obstetrics and GynecologyProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure OG-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

25%

48%

27%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=440%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

5% 7%

89%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

6% 9%

85%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

46%

13%

41%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=55N=44

N=48 N=48

N=46 N=34

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 83

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Figure OG-5Obstetrics and GynecologyProgram's Interview Activities

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

5

589

87 76 66

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

46% 46%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=54N=51N=73* N=56*N=56N=55

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=56

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

10%

70%

13%7%

1%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

0%

17%

47%

31%

5%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=57N=57

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

53%

28%

19%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

2% 3% 0% 3%9%

83%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

I wanted to ensure we had an adequatenumber of alternate candidates in theevent other applicants cancelled at the

last minute

I wanted to ensure all interview spotsfilled in a timely manner

I worried I would not fill all my interviewslots

Other

25%

0%

0%

75%

Reason for offering more interview invitations to applicants thaninterview slots to fill

7%Yes

93%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=58

N=4

N=58N=57

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 84

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

5.0

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.8

4.4

4.2

4.1

3.7

3.9

3.1

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure OG-6Obstetrics and GynecologyProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=55

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

32%27%

9%

36%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=56

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

2%16%

39%28%

47%

66%

40%

7%

63% 32%

34% 56%

44%

30%

54%

93%

35%

53%

27%16%

9% 4% 5%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian2%

9%18%

41%30%

49%

68%

41%

5%

58%30%

34% 54%

44%

28%

54%

93%

33%

52%

25%16%

7% 4% 5%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=57 n=57

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Orthopaedic Surgery(N=49)

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Figure OS-1Orthopaedic SurgeryPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=36)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.14.5

3.83.6

3.94.4

4.04.5

4.84.0

4.44.6

4.14.7

4.53.84.0

4.53.8

4.64.1

4.43.9

3.53.73.93.83.7

4.34.1

4.93.83.83.83.8

3.32.0

100% 50% 0%

97%86%

75%67%64%

50%72%

81%31%

75%72%69%

58%78%

58%47%

58%22%

69%14%

50%14%

42%47%

39%19%

36%42%

8%50%

25%17%

33%11%11%22%

6%

0%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 87

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Orthopaedic SurgeryPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=36)

Figure OS-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.84.84.84.7

4.23.94.14.0

4.84.44.5

3.64.54.4

3.54.14.0

3.94.8

2.03.73.84.0

3.84.03.9

3.53.8

4.53.1

3.43.94.0

3.94.8

4.04.2

3.5

5.0

4.55.0

100% 50% 0%

89%95%89%

92%68%65%

41%54%54%

24%70%

46%65%

49%30%

49%19%

43%22%11%

41%16%22%

49%5%

24%5%

27%5%

19%27%27%

14%22%14%5%

16%0%0%3%5%0%5%3%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 88

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170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

Orthopaedic SurgeryProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure OS-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

82%

18%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

71%

29%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

16%

81%

3%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

19%27%

54%

Test Required?

N=37N=34

N=37N=31

N=7N=29 N=23 N=6

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 2 CKUSMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 2 CK

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 89

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

15%

60%

25%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=36

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

36%

64%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

Orthopaedic SurgeryProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure OS-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

15%

30%

55%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=320%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

3% 0%

97%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0%

11%

89%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

20% 20%

60%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=36N=32

N=20 N=20

N=20 N=18

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 90

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Figure OS-5Orthopaedic SurgeryProgram's Interview Activities

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

4

603

71 59 51

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

50% 46%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=38N=37N=49* N=39*N=39N=38

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=38

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

0%

19%

60%

16%

5%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

1% 0%6%

38%

55%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=38N=38

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

54%

21%

31%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

0% 0% 0%11% 8%

82%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

I wanted to ensure we had an adequatenumber of alternate candidates in theevent other applicants cancelled at the

last minute

I wanted to ensure all interview spotsfilled in a timely manner

I worried I would not fill all my interviewslots

Other

50%

50%

25%

25%

Reason for offering more interview invitations to applicants thaninterview slots to fill

21%Yes

79%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=39

N=8

N=38N=39

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 91

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.6

4.6

4.4

4.1

3.6

3.5

3.6

3.4

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure OS-6Orthopaedic SurgeryProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=36

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

38%32%

8%

24%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=37

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

3%13%

31%

54% 49%

74%90%

46%

10%

67%

49%

46%49%

23%8%

54%

87%

21% 21%

3% 3% 3%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian3%

13%

33%

53% 51%

77%90%

50%

11%

67%

46%

47% 46%

21%10%

50%

87%

21% 21%

3% 3%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=39 n=39

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Otolaryngology(N=30)

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Figure O-1OtolaryngologyPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=25)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.04.6

3.53.7

4.14.44.4

4.24.8

4.04.5

4.04.54.5

4.13.63.7

3.43.5

4.53.8

2.74.3

3.53.73.9

3.33.8

3.34.1

4.43.0

3.7

4.43.3

3.03.0

100% 50% 0%

100%96%

64%72%

76%56%

84%84%

48%68%64%64%

68%68%

52%36%

64%20%

76%16%

56%12%

64%60%

52%32%

40%48%

16%72%

20%12%

40%0%

32%32%

4%4%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

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OtolaryngologyPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=25)

Figure O-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.84.84.8

4.74.5

3.93.3

4.44.54.7

4.43.9

4.44.6

3.64.0

2.73.7

4.3

4.03.0

4.53.8

3.53.9

03.8

4.33.7

3.34.5

3.73.8

4.34.2

3.83.7

3.0

3.5

100% 50% 0%

96%88%88%84%80%

36%24%

64%80%

64%60%

52%56%

64%44%

36%12%

40%24%

4%48%

8%44%

36%8%

48%4%

36%12%

36%16%

52%28%20%24%

48%40%

0%0%4%

12%0%

16%0%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

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170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

OtolaryngologyProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure O-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

67%

33%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

65%

30%

4%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

32%

60%

8%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

21%13%

67%

Test Required?

N=25N=24

N=24N=23

N=15 N=12

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 1

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

27%

45%

27%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=23

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

35%

65%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

OtolaryngologyProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure O-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

18%

0%

82%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=200%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

5%0%

95%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

10%0%

90%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

9% 9%

82%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=23N=20

N=11 N=11

N=11 N=10

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 97

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Figure O-5OtolaryngologyProgram's Interview Activities

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

3

364

57 45 41

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

20%

81%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=26N=24N=30* N=26*N=26N=26

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=26

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

5%

37%45%

11%2%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

0% 1%

15%

49%

36%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=25N=25

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

64%

20%

16%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

0% 0%

12% 8%

24%

56%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

I wanted to ensure we had an adequatenumber of alternate candidates in theevent other applicants cancelled at the

last minute

I wanted to ensure all interview spotsfilled in a timely manner

I worried I would not fill all my interviewslots

Other

29%

57%

14%

29%

Reason for offering more interview invitations to applicants thaninterview slots to fill

28%Yes

72%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=25

N=7

N=25N=25

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

4.8

5.0

4.9

4.8

4.8

4.3

4.4

4.2

3.8

3.6

3.9

3.8

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure O-6OtolaryngologyProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=24

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

28%20%

24%32%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=25

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

4%

40%56%

20%

40%

72%

16%

64%

40%

40%

76%

56%

28%

72%96%

36%20%

4% 4% 4%12%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian4% 4%

44%60%

32%44%

75%

30%

52%

36%

36%

64%52%

25%

57%96%

44%

20%4% 4% 4%

13%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=25 n=25

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Pathology(N=29)

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Figure PA-1PathologyPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=24)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.14.6

4.23.73.9

4.84.1

4.34.5

3.94.03.93.8

4.54.3

4.14.03.9

3.24.6

3.33.83.8

3.33.4

3.83.5

3.83.8

3.55.0

3.74.2

4.53.73.7

4.03.0

100% 50% 0%

92%100%

83%100%

63%100%

63%67%

50%63%63%

50%58%

63%58%58%

46%63%

29%46%42%

54%46%

33%33%

71%21%

38%

33%46%

58%13%

42%13%

29%29%

29%17%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

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PathologyPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=24)

Figure PA-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.74.84.8

4.74.5

3.73.8

4.14.4

4.74.0

3.84.64.6

3.63.8

4.03.8

4.45

3.83.5

3.83.8

4.43.33.53.73.7

3.53.73.6

3.53.6

4.83.7

4.54.0

4.33.0

4.04.0

3.53.5

100% 50% 0%

88%92%

83%96%

67%63%

54%67%

71%75%

50%54%50%

42%58%

50%54%

33%42%42%38%

42%38%

21%42%

25%33%29%

46%25%13%

33%21%21%

33%25%

33%17%13%

4%8%

17%17%

8%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

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170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

PathologyProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure PA-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

21%

54%

25%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

26%

48%

26%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

46% 46%

8%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

29%21%

50%

Test Required?

N=24N=24

N=24N=23

N=7 N=6

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 1

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 103

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

43% 43%

14%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=24

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

33%

67%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

PathologyProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure PA-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

24% 24%

52%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=240%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

4% 0%

96%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

10%0%

90%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

24%

10%

67%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=24N=24

N=21 N=21

N=21 N=20

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 104

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Figure PA-5PathologyProgram's Interview Activities

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

450

500

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

4

456

70 53 45

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

40%47%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=21N=21N=29* N=22*N=22N=22

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=22

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

22%

45%

21%

9%3%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

0%

16%

34% 34%

15%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=23N=23

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

54%

21%

25%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

0% 0% 0% 0% 4%

96%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

I wanted to ensure we had an adequatenumber of alternate candidates in theevent other applicants cancelled at the

last minute

I wanted to ensure all interview spotsfilled in a timely manner

I worried I would not fill all my interviewslots

Other

63%

25%

25%

50%

Reason for offering more interview invitations to applicants thaninterview slots to fill

33%Yes

67%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=24

N=8

N=23N=24

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 105

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.7

4.3

4.3

4.5

3.7

3.7

3.1

3.2

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure PA-6PathologyProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=21

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

18%

59%

9%14%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=22

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

9% 9%

41%

13%8%

30% 13%

57%

30% 26%

50%

52%

92%

70%78%

35%

70% 74%

9%

35%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian5% 5%

43%

14%9%

36%18%

62%

32%23%

48%

45%

91%

64%77%

33%

68%77%

10%

41%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=24 n=23

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Pediatrics(N=52)

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Figure P-1PediatricsPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=38)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

3.83.94.0

3.34.4

4.14.14.44.5

4.04.4

4.04.0

4.33.94.0

3.74.0

3.74.5

3.74.0

3.63.53.73.93.83.94.0

3.34.8

4.33.3

3.63.9

2.72.83.0

100% 50% 0%

92%68%

84%71%

82%47%

76%74%

82%68%68%

61%66%61%63%

68%53%

87%58%

74%58%

76%47%45%

58%71%

50%39%

58%29%32%29%

18%29%

21%18%13%11%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 108

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PediatricsPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=38)

Figure P-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.94.84.84.7

3.83.94.14.1

4.64.04.14.24.34.4

3.84.24.2

4.04.6

74.14.0

4.43.9

4.64.14.1

3.74.0

3.63.8

3.64.1

3.84.4

4.03.0

3.93.83.94.0

3.72.8

3.8100% 50% 0%

100%97%

100%95%

78%78%

86%62%

70%70%70%73%76%

65%54%

68%73%

57%73%76%

54%81%

41%43%

68%51%

70%38%

54%41%

51%35%32%27%

35%19%14%19%

35%24%19%19%16%11%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 109

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170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

PediatricsProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure P-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

3%

72%

26%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

5%

87%

8%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

51%46%

3%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

18%

36%

46%

Test Required?

N=39N=39

N=39N=39

N=12N=18 N=17 N=11

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 2 CKUSMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 2 CK

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 110

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

37%

58%

5%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=39

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

51% 49%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

PediatricsProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure P-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

16%

39%45%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=310%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

3% 0%

97%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

3% 0%

97%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

41%

8%

51%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=39N=31

N=38 N=38

N=37 N=29

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 111

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Figure P-5PediatricsProgram's Interview Activities

0

200

400

600

800

1,000

1,200

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

11

1,113

230170 153

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

49% 45%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=40N=36N=52* N=40*N=39N=40

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=39

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

31%40%

17%9%

3%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

0%

19%

38%32%

11%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=38N=38

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

72%

10%

26%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

3% 0% 0%5%

24%

68%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

I wanted to ensure we had an adequatenumber of alternate candidates in theevent other applicants cancelled at the

last minute

I wanted to ensure all interview spotsfilled in a timely manner

I worried I would not fill all my interviewslots

Other

78%

39%

28%

22%

Reason for offering more interview invitations to applicants thaninterview slots to fill

43%Yes

58%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=40

N=18

N=38N=39

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 112

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

4.9

4.9

4.8

4.9

4.9

4.3

4.2

4.1

4.1

3.6

3.1

3.1

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure P-6PediatricsProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=35

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

32%41%

16% 14%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=37

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

15%8% 13%

66%

8%

53%

23%

50%

43%

55%

32%

57%

100%

48%

78%

35%50%

32%

3%

35%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian

15%8%

15%

66%

8%

49%

23%

48%

41%

48%

26%

53%

100%

51%

78%

38%51%

38%

8%

40%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=40 n=40

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Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation(N=21)

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 114

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Figure PMR-1Physical Medicine and RehabilitationPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=16)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

3.63.9

3.54.2

3.74.3

3.84.24.2

3.43.94.14.2

4.63.83.9

3.73.7

3.44.2

3.73.73.6

3.33.4

3.03.33.5

3.93.4

5.03.73.9

3.03.2

2.74.0

3.7100% 50% 0%

94%94%

63%81%

88%88%

69%88%

63%75%

69%63%

69%69%

56%63%

69%94%

50%

56%63%63%

69%56%

50%25%

44%38%

50%44%

31%19%

50%6%

38%19%6%

19%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

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Physical Medicine and RehabilitationPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=16)

Figure PMR-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.74.84.74.8

3.83.53.6

3.94.6

4.34.3

3.64.14.3

3.93.6

4.03.6

4.21.1

3.63.6

4.23.4

4.23.7

4.04.0

3.53.84.0

3.73.6

3.05.0

3.43.6

3.5

2.03.5

5.03.0

5.0100% 50% 0%

100%100%

88%81%

69%63%

31%81%

63%69%69%

44%63%

50%44%44%

31%31%31%

38%31%

56%38%

31%31%

44%31%

44%25%

31%25%

38%31%

13%19%

31%50%

25%0%6%

13%6%6%6%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

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170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

Physical Medicine and RehabilitationProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure PMR-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

13%

75%

13%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

25%

75%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

35%

53%

12%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

29%

12%

59%

Test Required?

N=17N=16

N=17N=16

N=8 N=5

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 1

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 117

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

35%

53%

12%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=17

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

47%53%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

Physical Medicine and RehabilitationProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure PMR-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

29%

12%

59%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=150%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0% 0%

100%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0% 0%

100%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

47%

0%

53%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=17N=15

N=17 N=17

N=17 N=15

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 118

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Figure PMR-5Physical Medicine and RehabilitationProgram's Interview Activities

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

450

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

5

436

83 71 58

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

31%

64%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=19N=19N=21* N=19*N=19N=19

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=19

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

14%

69%

10% 6%1%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

2%10%

34%

45%

8%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=17N=17

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

71%

18%

24%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

0% 0%5% 5%

26%

63%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

I wanted to ensure we had an adequatenumber of alternate candidates in theevent other applicants cancelled at the

last minute

I wanted to ensure all interview spotsfilled in a timely manner

I worried I would not fill all my interviewslots

Other

75%

50%

50%

25%

Reason for offering more interview invitations to applicants thaninterview slots to fill

21%Yes

79%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=19

N=4

N=19N=17

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 119

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

4.9

4.9

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.2

4.0

4.0

3.8

3.2

3.1

3.4

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure PMR-6Physical Medicine and RehabilitationProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=16

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

38%

13% 13%

44%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=16

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

13% 12%

41%

65%

19%6%

76%63%

82%

53%

35%

63%94%

24%

100%

25%

6% 6%19%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian

6%18% 12%

40%

63%

18%6%

71%59%

82%

60%

38%

65%94%

24%

100%

24%

6%18%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=17 n=17

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 120

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Plastic Surgery(N=16)

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 121

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Figure PS-1Plastic SurgeryPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=12)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.44.9

4.03.0

3.84.8

4.04.85.0

3.84.6

3.84.64.7

4.03.8

3.65.0

3.75.0

3.6

3.54.0

3.33.0

3.64.3

4.45.0

3.54.3

3.04.3

3.54.0

100% 50% 0%

92%92%

67%67%67%

33%67%

42%58%

67%67%

50%67%

50%50%

42%42%

8%92%

25%42%

0%58%

33%58%

8%50%

33%0%

75%17%17%

58%8%

50%25%

8%0%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 122

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Plastic SurgeryPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=12)

Figure PS-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.95.0

4.84.84.9

3.93.6

4.24.84.8

3.93.6

4.64.4

3.03.3

4.03.7

4.7

4.5

4.84.04.04.0

3.5

3.63.5

4.34.04.0

5.04.34.4

3.0

3.33.5

100% 50% 0%

100%82%

100%91%

82%91%

64%45%45%

55%64%

45%73%

45%55%55%

36%55%

27%0%

36%0%

36%55%

9%45%

0%36%

0%45%

36%55%

36%27%

9%55%

45%0%9%0%0%

27%18%

0%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 123

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170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

Plastic SurgeryProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure PS-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

82%

18%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

80%

20%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

17%

83%

0%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

8%

50%42%

Test Required?

N=12N=11

N=12N=10

N=6N=9 N=8 N=5

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 2 CKUSMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 2 CK

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 124

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

29%

43%

29%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=12

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

50% 50%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

Plastic SurgeryProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure PS-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0%

29%

71%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=90%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0% 0%

100%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0%

20%

80%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

17% 17%

67%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=12N=9

N=7 N=7

N=6 N=5

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 125

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Figure PS-5Plastic SurgeryProgram's Interview Activities

0

40

80

120

160

200

240

280

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

2

249

45 35 32

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

21%

76%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=12N=12N=16* N=12*N=12N=12

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=12

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

0% 0%

62%

27%

11%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

0% 0%

11%

44% 44%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=11N=11

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

67%

17%

25%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

0% 0% 0%8% 8%

83%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

25%Yes

75%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=12

N=12N=12

Reasons for "offering more interview invitations to applicants

than interview slots to fill" not reported because of low response

rate.

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 126

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

4.9

4.8

4.7

4.9

4.6

4.9

4.2

4.1

3.6

4.2

3.5

3.9

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure PS-6Plastic SurgeryProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=10

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

42%

25%

0%

33%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=12

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

33%50%

42% 42%

73%

33%

67%

58%42%

33%50%

27%

58%

100%

33%

8% 8%25%

8% 8%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian

33%50%

42% 42%

73%

33%

67%

58%42%

33%50%

27%

67%

100%

33%

8% 8%25%

8%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=12 n=12

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 127

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Psychiatry(N=57)

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 128

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Figure PSY-1PsychiatryPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=37)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

3.54.1

3.84.3

4.04.6

4.04.34.3

3.84.5

4.34.34.54.6

3.84.3

3.53.3

4.34.1

3.64.0

3.73.7

4.23.7

4.23.63.7

5.04.1

3.83.9

4.33.8

3.03.0

100% 50% 0%

62%73%76%

86%78%81%

62%65%

70%41%

65%51%

76%57%

70%73%

57%51%

32%54%

46%57%

46%41%

32%57%

41%49%

54%16%

41%24%16%

30%19%16%14%

3%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 129

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PsychiatryPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=37)

Figure PSY-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.94.94.94.9

4.03.43.6

4.44.9

4.54.5

4.24.54.6

4.23.83.8

4.14.3

73.9

3.34.3

3.34.14.2

3.84.14.14.2

3.54.1

4.03.5

4.84.1

4.03.3

3.84.5

3.92.4

4.33.5

100% 50% 0%

100%97%95%97%

59%49%

57%78%

59%62%

43%68%

54%54%

68%35%

59%43%43%

51%46%41%

49%22%

35%35%

49%32%

46%19%

30%22%24%22%

30%22%

5%27%22%16%8%

14%8%

11%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

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170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

PsychiatryProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure PSY-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

11%

45% 45%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

13%

55%

32%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

78%

19%

3%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

50%

31%

19%

Test Required?

N=37N=38

N=36N=38

N=5N=7 N=6

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 2 CKUSMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 1

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 131

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

74%

24%

3%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=35

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

63%

37%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

PsychiatryProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure PSY-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

57%

26%17%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=270%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

7%0%

93%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

13%

0%

87%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

53%

9%

38%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=35N=27

N=34 N=35

N=34 N=23

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 132

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Figure PSY-5PsychiatryProgram's Interview Activities

0

200

400

600

800

1,000

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

7

909

86 74 58

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

49%

36%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=38N=35N=57* N=39*N=39N=39

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=39

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

21%

48%

19%9%

4%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

2%

23%33%

26%16%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=39N=39

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

55%

26%

26%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

0% 0% 0% 0%

13%

88%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

I wanted to ensure we had an adequatenumber of alternate candidates in theevent other applicants cancelled at the

last minute

I wanted to ensure all interview spotsfilled in a timely manner

I worried I would not fill all my interviewslots

Other

60%

47%

53%

20%

Reason for offering more interview invitations to applicants thaninterview slots to fill

38%Yes

63%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=40

N=15

N=40N=38

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

5.0

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.3

4.4

4.1

3.9

3.4

3.4

2.8

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure PSY-6PsychiatryProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=37

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

38%30%

16%22%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=37

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

3% 5%

24%11%

24%

55%

29%

8%

61%

16%

47%

55%

61%

37%

63%92%

37%

79%

29% 34%

16%8% 8%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian

8% 3%

27%16%

24%

58%

29%

8%

58%

14%

49%55%

63%

32%

63%92%

34%

84%

24% 29%13% 11% 8%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=38 n=38

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 134

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Radiation Oncology(N=17)

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 135

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Figure RO-1Radiation OncologyPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=15)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

3.74.3

3.84.3

3.54.54.44.4

4.74.0

4.54.34.44.5

4.13.3

3.6

3.45.0

3.5

4.33.53.7

4.03.2

3.8

4.75.0

4.03.8

2.04.5

3.04.0

100% 50% 0%

93%93%

53%87%

93%80%

93%80%

27%73%

67%73%

80%67%

73%40%

67%0%

60%7%

40%0%

60%60%

73%13%

33%40%

0%73%

13%7%

40%

7%47%

20%

7%0%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 136

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Radiation OncologyPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=15)

Figure RO-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.74.9

4.84.7

4.23.94.0

4.44.6

4.44.3

3.34.54.6

4.03.94.0

3.74.5

3.6

4.34.0

5.03.8

5.03.0

3.83.0

4.43.8

3.05.0

4.14.0

4.0

3.0

100% 50% 0%

79%93%

86%93%

71%50%

36%79%

57%57%

71%43%

57%57%

50%50%

29%50%

14%0%

50%0%

29%14%

7%29%

0%21%

7%29%

7%57%

29%29%

7%57%

29%0%0%

14%0%0%

14%0%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 137

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Radiation OncologyProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure RO-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

40%

60%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

50% 50%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

67%

27%

7%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

8% 8%

85%

Test Required?

N=15N=15

N=13N=14

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

USMLE Step 1 not reported because of low response

rate

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

USMLE Step 1 not reported because of low response

rate

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 138

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

25% 25%

50%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=13

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

8%

92%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

Radiation OncologyProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure RO-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

13% 13%

75%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=120%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

8%0%

92%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

13%

0%

88%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

13% 13%

75%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=13N=12

N=8 N=8

N=8 N=8

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 139

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Figure RO-5Radiation OncologyProgram's Interview Activities

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

3

123

4335 31

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

19%

83%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=13N=13N=17* N=14*N=14N=14

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=14

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

0%

60%

32%

4% 3%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

0% 2%12%

48%38%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=15N=15

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

60%

40%

7%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

0% 0% 0% 0%7%

93%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

20%Yes

80%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=15

N=15N=15

Reasons for "offering more interview invitations to applicants

than interview slots to fill" not reported because of low response

rate.

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 140

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

4.8

4.9

4.9

4.6

4.8

4.3

4.1

4.1

3.5

2.8

3.3

3.7

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure RO-6Radiation OncologyProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=14

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

36%

14% 14%

36%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=14

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

20% 27%

60%

33%47%

80%

27%

60%

67%

40%

67%53%

20%

67%

100%

20%7% 7%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian

21% 27%

64%

29%

64%80%

27%

57%

67%

36%

71%

36%20%

67%

100%

21%7% 7%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=15 n=15

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 141

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Radiology(N=36)

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Figure RD-1Radiology-DiagnosticPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=27)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.34.14.0

3.54.2

4.04.34.4

4.84.34.3

3.94.24.5

4.13.5

4.04.3

3.64.9

3.84.44.4

3.63.6

4.43.4

4.13.8

3.74.6

4.03.8

3.73.0

3.53.5

4.5100% 50% 0%

100%81%78%

89%93%

52%70%

63%81%

89%59%

70%48%

74%59%

44%52%44%

59%

63%48%

30%63%

52%41%

41%56%

41%

19%33%

44%33%

19%11%

7%33%

7%7%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 143

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Radiology-DiagnosticPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=27)

Figure RD-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.74.84.8

4.64.14.2

4.14.3

4.74.14.34.3

4.54.3

3.64.3

3.74.1

4.85

4.44.04.14.0

4.73.8

3.64.34.24.1

3.83.5

3.94.1

4.94.0

3.84.5

3.84.3

3.92.7

4.23.0

100% 50% 0%

93%93%93%

81%74%

81%70%

59%74%

52%63%

85%59%

67%63%

78%48%

41%59%

30%63%

44%37%

59%44%44%

19%59%

37%41%41%41%

30%33%

44%15%19%

33%15%

30%7%

11%22%

7%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

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170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

Radiology-DiagnosticProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure RD-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

41%

56%

4%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

37%

59%

4%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

30%

70%

0%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

26% 22%

52%

Test Required?

N=27N=27

N=27N=27

N=6N=18 N=16 N=6

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 2 CKUSMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 2 CK

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 145

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

32% 32%36%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=27

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

37%

63%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

Radiology-DiagnosticProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure RD-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

23% 23%

55%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=210%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0% 0%

100%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

6% 6%

89%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

32%

5%

64%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=27N=21

N=22 N=22

N=22 N=18

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 146

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Figure RD-5Radiology-DiagnosticProgram's Interview Activities

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

6

615

115 96 87

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

37%

55%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=26N=26N=36* N=26*N=27N=27

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=27

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

27%

52%

9% 8%4%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

1%

22%

33% 31%

14%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=27N=27

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

74%

15%

19%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

4% 0% 4% 0%

21%

71%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

I wanted to ensure we had an adequatenumber of alternate candidates in theevent other applicants cancelled at the

last minute

I wanted to ensure all interview spotsfilled in a timely manner

I worried I would not fill all my interviewslots

Other

86%

64%

36%

29%

Reason for offering more interview invitations to applicants thaninterview slots to fill

50%Yes

50%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=28

N=14

N=28N=27

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

4.9

4.7

4.9

4.8

4.6

4.8

4.2

4.4

3.4

3.7

3.0

3.1

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure RD-6Radiology-DiagnosticProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=26

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

37%33%

22%26%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=27

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

4%19%

4%15%

56%

15%

67%

26%

62%

74%67%

33%

63%100%

30%

74%

19% 22% 19%11%

22%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian4%

19%4%

19%

56%

15%

63%

28%

58%

70%

59%

30%

63%100%

33%

72%

23% 26% 22%15%

22%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=27 n=27

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 148

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Surgery(N=70)

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 149

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Figure GS-1SurgeryPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=42)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.34.24.3

4.03.9

4.54.24.1

4.94.34.24.4

4.34.54.6

4.34.0

4.24.2

4.93.9

4.64.3

3.63.6

4.14.04.24.4

3.84.7

4.23.5

4.04.0

3.94.34.3

100% 50% 0%

90%88%86%81%

60%67%67%

60%45%

62%67%69%71%69%

60%45%

69%45%

52%

33%43%

38%50%52%48%43%

40%40%

19%38%

29%

29%10%12%14%19%

10%7%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

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SurgeryPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=42)

Figure GS-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.84.94.84.8

4.04.24.3

4.64.84.7

4.53.8

4.44.5

4.04.24.24.2

4.75

3.84.24.1

4.04.9

3.94.3

3.84.2

3.43.83.9

4.34.0

4.84.2

4.54.54.7

4.03.94.0

4.54.5

100% 50% 0%

95%95%

83%88%

71%78%

71%73%

59%56%

66%27%

51%51%

59%44%

32%59%

37%27%

44%32%

39%41%

20%34%

15%34%

24%29%32%34%

22%32%

12%22%10%20%7%

15%10%10%7%5%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

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170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

SurgeryProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure GS-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

44%

56%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

54%46%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

17%

83%

0%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

12%

71%

17%

Test Required?

N=41N=41

N=41N=39

N=27N=31 N=29 N=25

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 2 CKUSMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 2 CK

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 152

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

28%

50%

22%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=41

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

68%

32%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

SurgeryProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure GS-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

13%

50%

38%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=350%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

6% 6%

89%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

10%3%

86%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

41%

13%

47%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=41N=35

N=32 N=32

N=32 N=29

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 153

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Figure GS-5SurgeryProgram's Interview Activities

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

5

739

75 61 50

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

56%

37%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=44N=44N=70* N=44*N=44N=46

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=45

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

9%

53%

19%13%

6%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

1%9%

34% 37%

19%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=42N=42

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

65%

23%

16%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

0% 2% 0%7% 4%

87%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

I wanted to ensure we had an adequatenumber of alternate candidates in theevent other applicants cancelled at the

last minute

I wanted to ensure all interview spotsfilled in a timely manner

I worried I would not fill all my interviewslots

Other

86%

14%

14%

21%

Reason for offering more interview invitations to applicants thaninterview slots to fill

30%Yes

70%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=46

N=14

N=46N=43

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 154

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

4.9

5.0

4.9

5.0

4.8

4.7

4.4

4.2

4.1

4.0

3.7

3.5

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure GS-6SurgeryProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=40

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

29%

52%

17% 14%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=42

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

5% 7% 12%28%

15%

39%

70%

40%

2%

46% 31%

42%

49%

44%

30%

35%93%

46%57%

30% 37%

17%25%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian5% 10% 12%

30%23%

45%

73%

45%

5%

45%32%

40%45%

39%

25%

33%90%

45%56%

30% 32%16%

3%

22%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=41 n=41

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 155

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Transitional Year(N=22)

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 156

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Figure TY-1Transitional YearPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=13)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.53.5

4.54.0

3.95.0

3.63.8

4.74.44.54.54.74.8

4.34.4

4.24.5

4.04.7

3.54.6

4.33.2

3.84.04.04.0

4.53.8

4.55.0

3.3

4.02.0

100% 50% 0%

92%62%

85%85%

62%23%

46%31%

85%46%

31%54%

23%31%

54%77%

54%77%77%

85%38%

77%23%

38%38%

46%54%

15%62%

46%15%

31%0%

23%0%8%8%0%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

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Transitional YearPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=13)

Figure TY-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.74.7

4.44.1

3.64.54.64.64.6

5.04.3

3.83.5

5.04.04.24.4

3.94.5

33.8

4.6

4.14.6

4.04.64.5

4.33.3

4.34.04.0

3.33.0

5.0

03.5

5.03.0

0

100% 50% 0%

85%92%

85%85%

54%46%

62%54%

62%15%

46%62%

15%8%

77%38%

54%54%

46%54%

46%38%

0%62%

38%23%

38%31%

46%23%23%

31%8%

23%8%8%0%8%

15%8%8%8%0%0%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 158

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170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

Transitional YearProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure TY-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

36%

64%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

43%

57%

0%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

21%

79%

0%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

14%

64%

21%

Test Required?

N=14N=14

N=14N=14

N=9N=11 N=10 N=8

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

USMLE Step 2 CKUSMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 1 USMLE Step 2 CK

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

15%

85%

0%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=14

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

57%

43%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

Transitional YearProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure TY-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

15%

62%

23%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=110%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

18%

0%

82%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

20%

0%

80%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

46%

15%

38%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=14N=11

N=13 N=13

N=13 N=10

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 160

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Figure TY-5Transitional YearProgram's Interview Activities

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

8

515

9469 60

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

57%

38%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=14N=14N=22* N=14*N=14N=14

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=14

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

21%

38%

23%

11%7%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

1%

16%

36%27%

20%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=13N=13

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicantsresponded to interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a

specified deadline (e.g., within 72hours), with no preference given to the

order of responses

Other

71%

0%

29%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

0% 0% 0% 0%

27%

73%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

I wanted to ensure we had an adequatenumber of alternate candidates in theevent other applicants cancelled at the

last minute

I wanted to ensure all interview spotsfilled in a timely manner

I worried I would not fill all my interviewslots

Other

44%

44%

11%

11%

Reason for offering more interview invitations to applicants thaninterview slots to fill

56%

Yes

43.75%

No

Program offered more interview invitationsto applicants than interview slots to fill

N=16

N=9

N=15N=14

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 161

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.8

4.6

3.9

4.2

4.3

4.0

3.1

4.1

3.3

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure TY-6Transitional YearProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=10

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

50%

29%

7%14%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=14

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

14%

36%

7%

36%

79%

57%

57%

14%

36%

57%

57%

21%

36%

100%

29%

86%

29%36%

7% 7%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian

14%

38%

18%29%

79%

57%

57%

23%

38%

55%

64%

21%

36%

100%

29%

77%

23% 27%

7% 7%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=14 n=14

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 162

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Vascular Surgery(N=10)

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 163

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Figure VS-1Vascular SurgeryPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Selecting Applicants to Interview(N=6)

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.35.0

4.44.5

4.05.0

3.54.54.7

4.04.8

4.04.3

4.85.0

4.53.0

4.34.04.0

3.54.54.7

3.34.0

5.04.0

3.54.0

3.75.0

3.54.7

3.0

4.0

100% 50% 0%

100%100%

83%67%67%

100%50%

67%50%50%

83%50%50%

67%83%

67%33%

50%50%

17%33%33%

50%50%

67%17%17%

67%50%50%

17%33%

50%17%0%0%

33%0%

USMLE Step 1 score

Letters of recommendation in the specialty

USMLE Step 2 CK score

Personal Statement 

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter) 

Perceived commitment to specialty 

Grades in required clerkships 

Audition elective/rotation within your department

Any failed attempt in USMLE

Class ranking/quartile 

Personal prior knowledge of the applicant

Leadership qualities

Grades in clerkship in desired specialty 

Evidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived interest in program 

Passing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experience 

COMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any failed attempt in COMLEX‐USA*

Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*

Consistency of grades 

Awards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Graduate of highly‐regarded medical (MD/DO) school

Evidence of continuous medical education without gaps

Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membership

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialty

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*

Demonstrated involvement and interest in research

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMP 

Visa status**

Away rotation in your specialty at another institution 

Fluency in language spoken by your patient population 

Interest in academic career 

Awards or special honors in basic sciences

USMLE Step 3 score

COMLEX‐USA Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 164

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Vascular SurgeryPercentage of Programs Citing Each Factor And Mean Importance Rating¹ for Each Factor in Ranking Applicants(N=6)

Figure VS-2

Average RatingPercent Citing Factor

¹ Ratings on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (very important).* DO seniors/graduates only.** International Medical Graduates only.

1 2 3 4 5

4.75.0

4.84.84.7

4.54.2

5.05.0

4.84.5

4.04.44.6

4.04.0

4.74.0

4.55

4.54.0

4.54.04.0

4.54.5

4.04.5

4.34.0

5.04.5

5.04.0

5.04.04.04.0

100% 50% 0%

100%100%100%

67%100%

67%83%83%

50%100%

33%33%

83%83%

50%50%50%

17%33%33%

0%33%33%33%

17%17%

33%33%33%33%

0%50%

33%17%

33%17%

33%33%

17%17%17%

0%0%0%

Interpersonal skillsInteractions with faculty during interview and visit

Interactions with housestaff during interview and visitFeedback from current residents

Letters of recommendation in the specialtyUSMLE Step 1 scoreUSMLE Step 2 score

Perceived interest in programEvidence of professionalism and ethics

Perceived commitment to specialtyLeadership qualities

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE/Dean's Letter)Audition elective/rotation within your department

Personal prior knowledge of the applicantPersonal Statement

Class ranking/quartilePassing USMLE Step 2 CS

Other life experienceAny failed attempt in USMLE

COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Clinical Evaluation (CE) score*Grades in required clerkshipsCOMLEX‐USA Level 1 score*

Grades in clerkship in desired specialtyAlpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership

Any Failed COMLEX attempt*Volunteer/extracurricular experiences

Passing COMLEX‐USA Level 2 Performance Evaluation*Consistency of grades

Evidence of continuous medical education without gapsGraduate of highly regarded medical (MD/DO) schoolGold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) membershipDemonstrated involvement and interest in research

Awards or special honors in clerkship in desired specialtyAwards or special honors in clinical clerkships

Applicant was flagged with Match violation by the NRMPInterest in academic career

Away rotation in your specialty at another institutionOther post‐interview contact

Fluency in language spoken by your patient populationVisa status**

Second interview/visitUSMLE Step 3 score

Awards or special honors in basic sciencesCOMLEX Level 3 score*

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 165

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Vascular SurgeryProgram Usage of USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) Scores When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure VS-3

USMLE Step 2 (CK) Scores

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom Often

43% 43%

14%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Never Seldom often

43% 43%

14%

Does your program consider applicants who failtheir Licensure test on the first attempt?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

29%

57%

14%

Test Required?

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

43% 43%

14%

Test Required?

N=7N=7

N=7N=7

Average USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Scores Programs Consider When Granting Interviews

USMLE Step 1 Scores

The boxes in the boxplots above represent the interquartile range (IQR), which is the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles, and the line in the box is the median. The x-shaped symbol is the mean.

Scores Above Which Programs Almost Always Grant Interviews

Scores Below Which Programs Generally Do Not Grant Interviews

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

USMLE Step 1 not reported because of low response

rate

USMLE Step 2 CK not reported

because of low response rate

USMLE Step 1 not reported because of low response

rate

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 166

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0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

33% 33% 33%

COMLEX-USA Level 1*Test Required?

N=7

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes No

71%

29%

USMLE Step 2 CSTest Required?

Vascular SurgeryProgram Usage of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skill (CS), Step 3, and COMLEX-USA Scores* When Considering Which Applicants to Interview

Figure VS-4

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

50%

17%

33%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE*Test Required?

N=50%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0% 0%

100%

USMLE Step 3Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

0% 0%

100%

COMLEX-USA Level 3*Test Required?

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Yes, pass only Yes, target score No

50%

0%

50%

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE*Test Required?

N=7N=5

N=6 N=6

N=6 N=4

* DO seniors/graduates only

USMLE Step 2 CS and Step 3 Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE Scores

COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and Level 3 Scores

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 167

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Figure VS-5Vascular SurgeryProgram's Interview Activities

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

# positions inthe Match

# applicationsreceived

# interviewinvitations

sent

# applicantsinterviewed

# applicantsranked

1

151

4333 27

Average Number of Positions, Applications Received, Interview Invitations Sent,and Applicants Interviewed and Ranked

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Percentage of applicationsrejected based on a standardized

screening process

Percentage of applicationsreceiving an in-depth review

37%

65%

Average Percentage of Applications Rejected and Reviewed

N=7N=7N=10* N=7*N=7N=7

* Data from the NRMP database. All responding programs included

N=7

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

0%

85%

15%

0% 0%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Extended During Each TimePeriod

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Prior to Oct.1 2019

October2019

November2019

December2019

January2020 or later

0% 0%

24%

40%36%

Percentage of Program's Interviews Conducted During EachTime Period

N=7N=7

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

In the order in which applicants respondedto interview offers

Applicants submitted a rank order ofinterview date preferences by a specifieddeadline (e.g., within 72 hours), with no

preference given to the order of responses

Other

29%

43%

29%

How interviews were scheduled

0%

10%20%

30%

40%50%

60%70%

80%

90%100%

Less than1 hour

1 -3 hours 3 - 12hours

12 - 24hours

24 - 48hours

more than48 hours

0% 0% 0% 0%

14%

86%

Time given applicants to respond to interview invitations beforeextending invitations to other applicants

43%Yes

57%No

Program offered more interview invitations toapplicants than interview slots to fill

N=7

N=7N=7

Reasons for "offering more interview invitations to applicants

than interview slots to fill" not reported because of low response

rate.

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 168

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0 1 2 3 4 5

Professionalism

Quality of patient care

Clinical competency

Ethics

Communication skills

Passing board certification examination

Personality

Academic performance during residency

Ability to teach medical students

Performance on in-training examination

Patient Satisfaction Scores

Research and publications

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

4.8

4.8

4.3

4.5

3.7

4.0

4.2

3.8

Importance of Factors in Determining Residents' Success in Residency ProgramAverage rating on a scale of 5 (5=very important)

Figure VS-6Vascular SurgeryProgram's Interview Activities (Continued) and Program Assessment of Residents' Success

n=5

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

29% 29% 29%

14%

No communication other thanreceipt of the ERAS

application

No communication and instead will initiate contact with references and/or the medical school if needed

To be contacted bythe applicant’s

medical school afterprogram has initiated

contact with theapplicant

Other

Preferred Type of Communication About Applicants During SOAP

N=7

Frequency of Programs Interviewing and Ranking Candidates in the Main Residency Match

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MD SeniorMD Grad

DO SeniorDO Grad

US IMGNon-US IMG

PathwayCanadian

14% 14%

57%

29%

71%

14%

29%43%

14%

71%

57%

29%

71%100%

57%43%

29% 29%14% 14%

Often Seldom Never

Interview

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MDSenior

MD Grad DOSenior

DO Grad US IMG Non-USIMG

Pathway Canadian

14% 14%

57%

14%

43%

71%

29%

29%43%

14%

43%

29%

14%

43%100%

57%43%

29%43%

29%14%

29%

Often Seldom Never

Rankingn=7 n=7

NRMP Program Director Survey Results, 2020 169