Maximizing Residency Match Probability with Low USMLE Step Scores as an IMG - A guide by IMG Rotations
- Ash Eighaei Sedeh MD
- Feb 18
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 22
Matching into a U.S. residency program can be more challenging with low USMLE Step scores, but it’s not impossible. As an International Medical Graduate (IMG), you can further improve your chances of matching by focusing on other aspects of your application. Here's how you can maximize your residency match probability despite low USMLE Step scores.
1. Strengthening Your Clinical Experience is more important than ever
Hands-On Experience: If your USMLE scores are low, it’s important to compensate with strong clinical experience in U.S. hospitals or clinics. Clinical rotations, observerships, and externships in the U.S. provide you with practical exposure to the healthcare system, making your application stronger.
2. Securing Strong Letters of Recommendation (LoRs) from USCE is essential to maximize probability of matching
U.S.-based LoRs: Obtain Letters of Recommendation from U.S. physicians who can vouch for your clinical abilities, professionalism, and character. Strong LoRs can help offset lower scores.
3. Craft a Strong Personal Statement
A well-written personal statement can help highlight your passion for medicine, your resilience, and your motivation for becoming a U.S. resident. Discuss how you’ve worked through challenges, such as low test scores, and your commitment to improving.
4. Apply Broadly
Apply to a wide variety of IMG-friendly residency programs across different specialties and geographic locations. This increases your chances of securing interviews and matching. This would allow more programs to see more than just your USMLE score and to review other aspects of your application such as solid USCE and strong LORs from US-based doctors to maximize your match probability as an IMG.
How IMG Rotations Can Help maximize your match probability with low USMLE scores
At IMG Rotations, we provide tailored support to help IMGs maximize their chances of matching despite low USMLE scores. We offer clinical rotation opportunities and personalized guidance on residency applications, interview preparation, and more.