Geographic Preference in IMG Residency Match: Is It Important? A guide by IMG Rotations USCE services
- Margaret Ye
- Feb 18
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 22
When applying for U.S. residency programs, one of the most common questions is whether your geographic preference (which region, state, or city you'd prefer to train in) plays a significant role in your chances of matching. Let’s explore the importance of geographic preference and how it impacts the residency match process.
What is Geographic Preference?
Geographic preference refers to the specific states, regions, or even individual programs that you select when applying for residency. This can include whether you prefer to be in urban or rural settings, or specific areas such as the East Coast or West Coast.
How Does Geographic Preference Affect Your Chances of Matching?
Flexibility is Key: While it’s not a dealbreaker, being flexible with your geographic preferences can increase your chances of matching. Residency programs tend to have a more competitive selection process in some areas (like large cities), while others (particularly in rural areas) may be less competitive.
IMGs and Geographic Preference: For International Medical Graduates (IMGs), geographic preference can be tricky. Many residency programs in larger cities or more competitive states may be more selective about accepting IMGs. On the other hand, rural and underserved areas are more IMG-friendly.
Tips for Geographic Preference:
Apply Broadly: Apply to a variety of programs, especially in IMG-friendly areas, to increase your chances.
Be Flexible: Being open to multiple locations increases your odds of receiving an interview and matching.
Consider the Needs of the Program: Programs in underserved areas are more likely to accept IMGs.
How IMG Rotations can help you with matching into a residency in your geographic preference
We help you strategically navigate the residency match process, offering expert advice on how to balance your geographic preferences and increase your chances of matching in IMG-friendly regions.