March 21 — aka Residency Match Day — is a major day for residents all over the country!
Leading up to that day, you’re undoubtedly going to feel a mix of panic, excitement, anticipation, and stress. As doctors ourselves, we know first-hand how emotional Match Week can be.
One way to ease the emotional turmoil coming up is to know exactly what’s around the corner for Residency Match. To help you feel more prepared, we’ve provided some key dates and tips below.
Monday of Match Week (March 17)
At 10 a.m. ET, check your email or the Registration, Ranking and Results (R3) system to learn if you have matched. Just a reminder – you will only learn if you matched, not where you matched (those specifics will be released on March 21).
If you haven’t matched, or only partially matched, you may be able to apply to residency programs with unfilled positions through the Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP). You should receive a list of unfilled programs through the R3 system.
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of Match Week (March 18-20)
For those who haven’t matched or partially matched and submitted to unfilled positions, these few days will be a whirlwind. Be sure to clear your schedule for rapid-fire residency applications and interviews.
The SOAP process has four rounds of offers—after which the remaining unfilled spots are released, and you can start reaching out to programs directly.
Friday of Match Week: Match Day (March 21)
It’s the big day! At noon ET, check your email or log into the R3 system to learn which residency program you matched with—and where you’ll receive the next step in your physician training.
Most medical schools hold their own Match Day ceremonies at this time—although they may be virtual again this year. Regardless of how or where they will be held, be sure to join in on the festivities. You worked hard to get here, and it’s time to celebrate!
After Match Week
Nearly every residency starts in June or July—which is just a few short months away. Here are three ways to get on top of securing new accommodations, completing all the required paperwork, and getting your financial ducks in a row.
Speaking of finances, now that you’re matched, you will start earning an income. However, be aware that the amount your residency pays may only be barely enough to afford basic living essentials—especially if you’re relocating to a city with a higher cost of living.
But don’t worry.
If you have a life expense, and find that your meager salary isn’t enough to cover a surprise bill, then Panacea Financial has you covered: we provide PRN Personal Loans for doctors-in-training. Unlike most lenders, we don’t require you to have a cosigner and you know your rates before you apply. As a resident, you can apply online for up to $30,000.
And remember: you don’t need to match to secure funding with Panacea. This means you can contact us any time to get started.
Learn more about PRN Loans on our website.
Find more Match Day resources on our Match Day page—and once again, congratulations on matching!
Panacea Financial, a division of Primis. Member FDIC.
