Adult Neurology Resident Application & Requirements

The Adult Neurology residency program is a categorical program where applicants match for all four years. Applicants do not have to apply separately for a PGY-1 position, which is spent primarily in the Department of Internal Medicine. All applications must be submitted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) or the Residency Central Application (https://centralapp.accessgme.com). Candidates may apply through either service or both. The CentralApp was started as a free alternative to ERAS in plastic surgery in 2020, and it is now used specialty wide. We are among the first programs to trial this platform in neurology, in the hope that in future years we can reduce financial barriers created by progressive application fee structures. Please direct any questions about the application to HELP@accessgme.com

Required documents include: Curriculum vitae, personal statement, USMLE scores, medical school transcript, medical student performance evaluation/Dean's letter, and three letters of recommendation. See below for more details about selection criteria.

Following candidate interviews, all positions are filled through the National Neurology Matching Program. 

ANNUAL TIMELINE

Late September: Application review begins 

October-January: Interviews conducted on Tuesdays. All are virtual interviews.

Please note: We respectfully request cancellation notification as soon as possible, at least two weeks prior to the interview date. 

ELIGIBILITY AND SELECTION

Eligible candidates include graduates of accredited medical schools as well as graduates of medical schools outside the US & Canada who hold valid certificates from the ECFMG or have completed a Fifth Pathway program provided by an LCME-accredited medical school. 

• All applications must be received through ERAS or the CentralApp. This ensures consistency of documentation and makes review fair and even. 
• Applicants are invited to interview based on review of the following criteria:
  • Medical school transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Research experience (including publications)
  • Personal statement (Our perspective on the personal statement is that this is a chance for applicants to showcase unique experiences and perspectives, in addition to communication skills. Nuance and creativity are encouraged.)
  • Additional degrees (including PhD and MPH degrees)
  • USMLE/COMLEX scores
  • Awards and honors (including selection for AOA and GHHS)
• Applications are reviewed by the program directors to determine the group of applicants to invite for interviews. Many factors are considered in the application. Personal photographs and demographic information are not included in this review.
• Applicants who complete the interview process are evaluated in writing, using a standard system, by all faculty and residents with whom they interview. This includes an assessment of all of the elements of the application as well as individual applicant attributes observed during the interview. House staff that have worked with or helped entertain applicants are also invited to submit comments.
• The final rank list is submitted to the National Resident Match Program in accordance with their policies.
• The program director evaluating residents attempting to transfer from other educational programs (prior to completion of training offered in that discipline at that institution) will directly contact the referring program director, chair, and/or other appropriate references to assess the educational qualifications of the resident or fellow before making any offer of employment. A final letter of evaluation and recommendation must be obtained from the referring program for all residents entering Vanderbilt programs after completing some phase of training at another institution. 

FAQ