Understanding the ERAS Application for IMGs Applying for the U.S. Residency Match - A guide by IMG Rotations
- Ash Eighaei Sedeh MD
- Feb 19
- 5 min read
Updated: Feb 22
The Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) is the online platform used by International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and U.S. medical students to apply for residency programs in the United States. For IMGs, the ERAS application is crucial in securing an interview and eventually matching into a U.S. residency program.
In this blog post, we will break down the different sections of the ERAS application and how you can fill them out effectively to maximize your chances of matching into your desired residency program.
A step by step guide in completing the ERAS application by IMG Rotations Experts:
1. Personal Information
What is it?
The Personal Information section is where you provide essential details about yourself. This includes your name, contact information, date of birth, and citizenship.
Why is it important?
While this section seems basic, it’s important to ensure that all personal information is correct, as it will be used for your entire application process. This section also asks about your visa status (e.g., J-1 or H-1B visa), which is particularly important for IMGs.
Tips for IMGs:
Double-check your contact details to ensure you're reachable by residency programs.
If you’re an IMG, be sure to accurately indicate your visa status and any other immigration-related details.
2. Medical School Information
What is it?
In this section, you will provide details about your medical school, including the name, location, and degree (e.g., MD, MBBS, DO). You will also indicate whether you’ve graduated or are still completing your studies.
Why is it important?
Residency programs will use this information to verify your medical school credentials and confirm whether your school is recognized by the World Directory of Medical Schools and accredited by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG).
Tips for IMGs:
Make sure to double-check the name and location of your medical school, as discrepancies may delay your application.
Attach proof of your degree (e.g., diploma, transcripts) if required by the program.
3. Clinical Experience
What is it?
This section is where you will detail any clinical rotations or externships you have completed, either in the U.S. or abroad. It includes the names of institutions, rotation dates, and the specialties you’ve worked in. Our IMG Rotations experts highly emphasize the importance of USCE in this ERAS application guide.
Why is it important?
For IMGs, U.S. clinical experience is particularly valuable as it demonstrates your familiarity with the U.S. healthcare system. Clinical rotations are often one of the key factors in determining whether you will be selected for an interview.
Tips for IMGs:
Highlight any U.S.-based clinical experience, as this will give you an edge in the application process.
Provide detailed descriptions of each rotation, including your specific responsibilities and the skills you gained.
4. USMLE/COMLEX Scores
What is it?
In this section, you will enter your USMLE scores (Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 2 CS if applicable). For IMGs, U.S. medical licensing exams are a key factor in evaluating your qualifications.
Why is it important?
Your USMLE scores are critical for your residency application. Residency programs use your scores as one of the main ways to assess your medical knowledge and readiness for residency training.
Tips for IMGs:
Submit official USMLE score reports and ensure they are up to date. If you haven’t taken all the steps yet, be sure to mention which ones you have completed.
Consider retaking Step 1 or Step 2 if your scores aren’t competitive enough, but be sure to weigh the time and cost involved.
5. Personal Statement
What is it?
Your Personal Statement is a critical section where you describe your motivation for pursuing residency, your career goals, and why you’re interested in specific specialties. This is your chance to showcase your passion and unique qualifications.
Why is it important?
The Personal Statement allows you to present yourself in a more personal light, beyond test scores and clinical experience. For IMGs, a compelling personal statement is crucial for explaining why you are interested in U.S. residency and how your background makes you a great fit.
Tips for IMGs:
Be genuine and tell your personal story. Highlight any challenges you’ve overcome in your journey to pursuing medicine.
Tailor your personal statement for each specialty you apply to, focusing on your specialty-specific experiences and goals.
If you’ve had any U.S. clinical experience, discuss how it helped shape your career aspirations.
6. Letters of Recommendation (LoRs)
What is it?
This section allows you to submit Letters of Recommendation (LORs) from individuals who can speak to your clinical abilities, work ethic, and potential as a resident. Ideally, these letters should come from U.S. physicians who have supervised you in clinical rotations.
Why is it important?
Letters of Recommendation are one of the most significant aspects of your application. They provide a third-party endorsement of your qualifications and fit for a residency program.
Tips for IMGs:
Try to secure U.S.-based Letters of Recommendations (LORs) obtained through United States Clinical Experience (USCE) as these will carry much more weight with residency programs.
Ensure your LoRs are written by individuals who know you well and can provide detailed feedback on your clinical skills and professionalism.
If you don't have a U.S.-based LoR, focus on obtaining strong recommendations from reputable physicians in your home country or from research mentors.
7. Research and Publications
What is it?
In this section, you will list any research experience you’ve had, including publications, presentations, or other academic work.
Why is it important?
Research experience is highly valued by residency programs, especially in competitive specialties. If you have any publications, posters, or research abstracts, this is the place to highlight them.
Tips for IMGs:
Include any U.S.-based research experience or international projects that align with your residency goals.
If you have published articles in peer-reviewed journals, be sure to provide full citations and links where possible.
8. Extracurricular Activities and Volunteer Work
What is it?
This section allows you to showcase any extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or leadership roles that demonstrate your character, commitment to community, and well-roundedness.
Why is it important?
For IMGs, highlighting volunteer work, especially in healthcare-related settings, can demonstrate your commitment to patient care and willingness to give back to the community.
Tips for IMGs:
Include volunteer work that is relevant to medicine or showcases your teamwork, leadership, and community service.
Highlight any involvement in medical organizations or global health initiatives.
How IMG Rotations Can Help You with the ERAS Application
At IMG Rotations, we understand how overwhelming the ERAS application process can be for International Medical Graduates (IMGs). That’s why we offer tailored support for residency application services. Whether you need assistance with:
We are here to guide you every step of the way to maximize your chances of matching into a U.S. residency program.