Scramble tips

root · Posted : Mon Feb 13, 2006 Post subject: Scramble tips

I know most of you guys are very tensed about the match results. Some of you may be lucky enough to get a spot, others may be not. The next 48hours after the match is not the time to cry and get consoled, instead, you need to have the courage and presence of mind to win the last battle before its too late.

For those who are not matched, you will get the list of unmatched positions the next day at 12 noon. Before receiving the list, you need to get everything arranged. If you are comfortable with any residency, then plan to apply to all specialties. Make copies of your CV, personal statements, medical school transcripts, LORs and other important documents. Arrange a separate fax line, separate phone line, and an internet connection. Be mentally prepared!

As soon as you get the list, start calling the programs one by one. Never get tired even if its all voicemails! Keep on calling them. In the mean time, if you are already registered in ERAS, you can apply to 30 programs for free. Carefully select programs that are willing to accept applications through ERAS and where you know you might have a chance. When you call the programs, if you are lucky, you may get connected to a person and they might interview you on the phone and gives their decision on the spot. Most programs prefer Green card holders or citizens. It is very very difficult to get a spot for those who require a visa. The process continues for 2 days. Some programs are more formal and traditional- they would like you to apply through ERAS and then invite you for an interview. It is better if you do not load the fax machines of the programs with hundreds of documents without knowing whether they will accept it or not. Many programs dont like you to just send them many documents by fax or email attachments without first talking to them and receiving their acceptance. They might simply throw your documents in trash.

If you were not lucky enough to get a spot in scramble, you can register in Find-a-resident which is run by ERAS. For those already registered in ERAS, the registration fees is only 30$ and also you could transfer your CV and other documents from ERAS to Find-a-resident. If the program has a vacancy later, they could see your resume and could contact you.Some programs might have vacancies very late in august or september due to some candidates with visa issues opting out. So you always have to check out for these spots. Hope this helps.