Applying for a residency might appear intricate, but fear not! Let’s break down the steps of this journey to your desired residency. Here is complete guide for an IMG how to apply for Neurology Match in 2023.

1. A Comprehensive Guide

Step 1: Discovering the Perfect Neurology Residency Program

• Start by exploring ACGME-accredited Neurology Residency Programs.
• Utilize resources like AMA-FREIDA, Residency Explorer, and the AMA Directory of Graduate Medical Education Programs (the “Green Book”).
• These sources provide valuable insights into program accreditation and specialty requirements.

Step 2: Making an Informed Program Selection

• Gather insights from various sources, including neurology department chairs, faculty, current residents, and recent graduates.
• Evaluate factors like academic atmosphere, specialization interests, subspecialty prospects, clinical involvement, and beyond.
• Examine program size, patient-to-resident ratios, geographical location, and program competitiveness.
• Tailor your search based on your STEP scores, J-1 and H-1B visa sponsorship options, and more.

Step 2: Making an Informed Program Selection

• Gather insights from various sources, including neurology department chairs, faculty, current residents, and recent graduates.
• Evaluate factors like academic atmosphere, specialization interests, subspecialty prospects, clinical involvement, and beyond.
• Examine program size, patient-to-resident ratios, geographical location, and program competitiveness.
• Tailor your search based on your STEP scores, J-1 and H-1B visa sponsorship options, and more.

Step 3: PGY-1 Training

• Apply to PGY-1 programs concurrently with your Neurology program application.
• Some Neurology programs offer an integrated PGY-1 year, while others require you to independently find a PGY-1 position through the NRMP Match.

Step 4: Combination Programs

• Explore limited combination programs in areas like Internal Medicine/Neurology, Neurology/Diagnostic Radiology/Neuroradiology, and Psychiatry/Neurology.
• These unique pathways offer exciting opportunities and are listed on FREIDA.

Step 5: Navigating the Interview Process

• Connect with programs to grasp their interview schedule, typically from November to January.
• Prepare for interviews by researching programs, formulating questions, and interacting with house staff.

Interviews are based on your credentials, personal statement, and letters of reference. Use this chance to gather insights

Step 6: Ranking Your Choices

After interviews, create a ranking list of preferred programs for the Neurology Matching Program.