Residency and fellowship: choose training for the work you want to do

The Essentials

National Matching Services (NMS) administers the ASHP Resident Matching Program. Applicants and programs submit preferences through rank order lists. Use the current NMS rules and schedule for process requirements, and the program’s own instructions for its application.

What the Match Does

The algorithm uses applicants’ rankings, programs’ rankings, and available positions. It attempts to place an applicant at their most preferred program where a match is possible under those rankings. It does not evaluate the applicant’s CV or interview performance itself.

PhORCAS brings residency application materials together. Application submission and Match participation are related but distinct responsibilities; review current instructions for both.

PGY1, PGY2, Combined Programs, and Early Commitment

PGY1 and PGY2 describe stages of postgraduate residency training. For a PGY2 position through the Match, NMS requires applicants to have completed a PGY1 residency or be completing one before PGY2 begins. Check program-specific requirements in addition to Match eligibility.

Combined programs and eligible PGY2 early-commitment arrangements have their own conditions. Do not assume a position is secured without completing the applicable process. Internationally educated applicants should review NMS eligibility and documentation requirements directly.

Follow the Current Cycle

Research programs before their deadlines, prepare application materials, complete the required registration, participate in interviews, and submit rankings by the official deadline. Check separate Phase I, Phase II, and post-Match instructions where applicable. Program start dates must be confirmed directly.

Build a Program List You Can Defend

Compare eligibility, learning opportunities, supervision, staffing expectations, location, costs, and personal constraints. Choose an application list you can prepare for and afford. There is no universally appropriate number of applications or reliable “safe” program category.

Program events and conversations can help you investigate fit. Use available virtual and in-person options, and ask current residents about workload, feedback, project support, and how concerns are handled.

Write the Letter of Intent

Follow each program’s requested format and length. Explain why you seek training, the preparation you bring, the specific program features relevant to your goals, and how you hope to contribute. Use truthful examples and remove claims that could apply unchanged to any program.

Prepare the CV

Present relevant rotations, responsibilities, projects, teaching, presentations, and leadership clearly. Distinguish your contribution from the team’s results and completed work from work in progress. The resume and CV resource provides additional structure.

Request References Thoughtfully

Confirm the number and type of references required by each program. Ask people who can describe relevant work, allow reasonable preparation time, and provide accurate background. Read the reference system’s access and waiver information and make your own informed choice; do not assume a particular choice guarantees a favorable evaluation.

Prepare for the Interview

Ask about the format and any case, presentation, writing, or other exercise. Prepare examples of reasoning, collaboration, communication, and learning from feedback. Practice explaining uncertainty and how you would seek help. Prepare questions about supervision, workload, development, and program culture.

Rank in Your Genuine Order of Preference

NMS advises ranking acceptable programs in your true preference order rather than by your guess about where you will match. Do not rank a program you would not accept. Read the Match agreement and applicable rules before submitting a list; matched applicants and programs have commitments under those terms.

Avoid Common Planning Mistakes

Do not confuse program deadlines with Match deadlines, assume every program participates in an event, or treat attendance as a substitute for meeting requirements. Avoid generic applications, unsupported claims, unexamined geographic constraints, and rankings based solely on prestige.

Phase II and the Post-Match Process

If you remain unmatched, review the official eligibility, available-position information, and schedule for the next phase. Prepare materials and reassess programs against your requirements. After the phases, follow the separate post-Match instructions for remaining positions. Do not assume the same dates, fees, or rules apply to every stage.

If you do not obtain a position, seek feedback where available and compare reapplication with employment or other development routes. A useful next step should build experience you value, whether or not you later reapply.

Choose Your Next Preparation Step

Start with eligibility and your program comparison. Identify the materials, references, and learning needs that require the most lead time. Use targeted review for any requested case exercise; a licensure study plan is a supplementary learning resource, not a substitute for program-specific preparation.