Residency Applicant FAQ

A complete application includes the following:

1. Medical School Transcript
2. Medical School Performance Evaluation (Dean's Letter)
3. Three letters of recommendation
4. USMLE transcript
5. ECFMG Certificate (if applicable) 
6. A Personal Statement.

Research and honors in the surgery clerkship are also factors.

All applications must be submitted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS).

Our deadline for 2025-2026 is October 6, 2024. 

USMLE Step 1 score of 240 or higher for tests taken before January 26, 2022. After January 26, 2022, we require a "Pass" on Step 1.

We require that you have passed USMLE Step 2 prior to our application deadline.

• We require a passing exam score of 240. We do not have a limitation on the number of attempts for USMLE exam, but do take into consideration any failed attempts.

2024 Interviews date will be December 13-14, 2024 and January 10-11, 2025.

No. Our interviews will be held in person over the course of two days.

Friday

• Interviews in the afternoon with our department chair and program director.
• Social that evening with our residents and fellow applicants.

Saturday

• Breakfast 
• Presentation and welcome to the program
• Interviews with faculty and residents 
• Tour of VUMC

We will be participating in the American Orthopaedic Association’s Universal Offer Day. More information on Universal Offer Day can be found on the AOA's website.

No previous US clinical experience is required to apply to the program.

We do not have a cut-off for the number of years since graduation from medical school. This will be taken into consideration when reviewing applications.

• Our program only offers J-1 Visas.
• The Graduate Medical Education (GME) office handles the J-1 visa applications. 

Applicants should be ECFMG certified by the application deadline.