USMLE residency interview timeline for IMGs

USMLE Residency interview timeline- when will I get the interview invites?

NOTE: The blog below should be read with the following updates

Timeline for 2021 season is pushed out by 5 weeks, most interviews will start only in November now. You can add a month to all the timelines discussed below
Almost all interviews will be virtual
While we do expect cancellations to happen and interviews to still go out in phases, it is unclear to what extent the previous year trends will follow

The Interview time-line (We want you to remember this throughout the season to avoid stress and disappointment)

The interview process is roughly divided into three waves.
The first wave takes place between September and October
The second wave takes place between November and December
And the third wave is at the Beginning of January and may extend till mid-February (specially with newly accredited programs).

The First wave:
During the first wave applicants with higher credentials, research and USCE are sought for. The program tries to evaluate the best candidate for their positions during this time. There may be many of you who may not receive any interview at this time and this should not be disheartening You may hear your colleague has had three interviews and you have had none. Don’t worry the seasons just begun.

The Second wave:
By this time the program has done with its fist batches of interviews and they have a rough idea of applicants who would rank them verses them ranking the applicants, remember this is a Match, as much as the applicant is concerned regarding matching so it the program vary of going unfilled. You do expect a drop in the expectations of the programs and they will be willing to fill in the spots with lower credentials. This is when most IMG expect maximum Interviews.

The Third wave:
This is post winter and you expect a large cancellation of interviews and this is the when the lower credential applicants will be receiving their interviews. Programs will be seeking large IMG diasporas during this time as many AMG and sought after IMGs (with 15+ interviews) may have cancelled their interviews due to the sheer number of interviews they have or due to financial or logistical reasons.
Regardless of when you get an interview, once offered an interview you are at par with all applicants regardless of your credentials, your ranking will be based on your performance in the Interview. It is paramount to be well prepared and know how to address the questions being asked in a composed and calm manner. Practice makes perfect here. It’s a one-shot chance to a life changing event. To learn more about how to prepare for interviews please contact us. This is where we offer first-hand experience with U.S. Attendings, residents and hospitalists to guide you on the most appropriate way to approach any set of questions.
We discuss this topic in in our YouTube video as well, link to which is below

Check out our Interview Prep courses