Will second visit to residency programs help me match?
​Does going for or requesting a second visit to program increase your odds of matching in that program? This is one of the most important questions we are asked by residency IMG applicants, during the interview season. We discuss some important aspects below:

Should I request a second visit?
  • Requesting a second visit does increase the perception of your desire to be in that particular program.
  • Many residency Program Directors do take this gesture favorably.

What if my request is denied?
  • You should know that requesting a second visit will likely go through a formal process and it may be turned down by the program due to logistics or scheduling reasons. However, this should not be considered a negative.
  • Every correspondence to the program will always be noted; notes regarding a particular applicant requesting for a second visit will be put on record and will be available during the program’s rank order list.
However, some IMG friendly residency programs may have a policy of not scheduling second visits and will tell you during the interview itself so do your due diligence prior to requesting a second visit to a program.

What if the program is inviting me for a second visit?

Some programs do offer second visits to their applicants (IMGs and AMGs) requesting them to come and review their program again
  • This may be sign that the Program Director or the other interviewers liked you a lot. Remember, second visit is as much of an investment for the program as it is on your end, so seriously consider going.
  •  This should not be declined unless you really don’t want to be part of that program and will be putting them low on your rank order list.

What happens during the second visit?

A second visit is more relaxed then the formal interview. You must remember however to maintain all etiquette you would ensure during the formal interview.
  • During your second visit you may have the opportunity to create an impression on the program director and faculty and this may be your last chance for the program to choose you favorably over other applicants.
  • Some programs may invite you to morning rounds with the faculty. In this case be alert, aware and participate with interest, making sure you are not stepping on too many toes, trying to show off your knowledge.
TIP: It is advisable to never mention to how many programs you have interviewed at, regardless of the interviews you have attended.

What questions should I ask in second visit?

Some questions you may ask during your second visit are
  1. Where do the residents live?
  2. How is the transition to this city?
  3. What restaurant are nearby?
  4. What do residents do for fun?
  5. what the opportunities for socializing with other residents and their families?
  6. Applicants with families and kids can have other questions related to their situation
If you notice most of this question are from a perspective of a potential resident who is serious about relocating to this city and to be part of that program.
TIPS
  • it is best to now avoid questions regarding the program that you would ask during your first interview.
  • It is also best to avoid correcting any errors you made during your Interview to the program.

Finally: is the second visit a make or break deal?

No. Your interview performance, overall profile and fit for the program will determine your match and the programs rank order list. This is a second chance for you and the program to know each other a bit better, and from your perspective, nudge them a bit more to consider you for the position.

Best wishes from the USMLESarthi team to all of you for the interview season and the upcoming Match!!.

Useful Videos for IMGs

​How will programs rank you? Discussion with a former Program coordinator
Second visit to residency programs
How to prepare your rank order list