Preparing for Match Day & beyond

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AMA Road to Residency Guide
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Understand residency match slang with this glossary
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FREIDA™, the AMA Residency & Fellowship Database®
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AMA medical student membership, discounts & benefits
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6 Min Read

Failed Step 1 or Step 2? These specialties put less weight on exams

There is a pathway to a successful Match after a first-attempt failure on USMLE Step 1 or 2. Learn more with the AMA. 

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USMLE® Step 1 & 2
Succeeding in Medical School

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4 Min Read

Which factors do applicants weigh most when picking residency programs?

Which are the top factors you are considering in your Match rank-order list? Learn how they compare with what your colleagues are seeking.

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Prep for Residency
The Road to Residency
UPDATED
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3 Min Read

AMA guide to creating your Match rank-order list

Now that you’ve interviewed, learn how to rank-order your target residency programs ahead of the match. 

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Prep for Residency
The Road to Residency
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6 Min Read

Creating a Match rank-order list? Avoid these 4 common missteps

If you interviewed with a residency program, you should probably rank it. Get more advice ahead of the March 4 Match rank-order list deadline.

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Prep for Residency
The Road to Residency
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6 Min Read

What ERAS application changes could mean for future Match cycles

Starting with the 2027 residency-application cycle, a change to the platform most specialties use may boost emphasis on peer-reviewed research.

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Prep for Residency
The Road to Residency
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5 Min Read

How to create a Match rank-order list for long-term satisfaction

Medical students often put weight on the wrong factors when ranking residency programs. Learn what predicts less stress and more happiness in GME.

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Prep for Residency
The Road to Residency
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4 Min Read

Looking to subspecialize? Take careful approach in residency Match

Even if you have your heart set on a subspecialty, it’s critical to keep your options open and have tact in discussing it with program directors

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Prep for Residency
The Road to Residency
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6 Min Read

Match Day countdown: What medical students must do to prepare

The road to Match Day 2026 has many milestones. This guide offers insight on what to do at each step of the physician residency-selection process.

Prep for Residency
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6 Min Read

Didn't match? How to come back stronger next residency-selection cycle

One failed Match should not define your career. Bounce back with expert advice on reapplying to physician residency programs.

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Prep for Residency
The Road to Residency