Application Costs
The residency selection process includes application fees for two items: initially the ERAS® program and later, the NRMP®. These application fees are separate from interview expenses, which are more varied and driven by geography.
The total cost of the process will fall within a wide range, depending on key factors such as which specialty or specialties the applicant is interested in, how many applications are made and programs ranked, and how close the applicant is to these programs geographically.
The application fees are easier to project, but they will vary depending on the volume of applications and number of specialties. Use the ERAS Residency Fee Calculator to help plan for your costs. Additional costs associated with the application include the USMLE Transcript fee of $80 and the COMLEX-USA Transcript fee of $80. Both are assessed once per application season.
| Number of Applications Per Specialty | Cost Per Application |
|---|---|
| 1 to 30 | $11 |
| 31 or more | $30 |
Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS®)
The ERAS program streamlines the residency application process for applicants. Applicants can complete their applications, select programs of interest, include necessary supporting documents, and submit their applications, all in one location. The ERAS program provides a centralized and flexible solution to the residency application and document distribution process.
Register for MyERAS for Residency to get started.
| Apply Smart for Residency |
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Your likelihood of securing residency training depends on many factors. One of many considerations is the number of residency programs you apply to, but there is no magic number that applies to all applicants. Review the data and resources at Apply Smart for Residency for help with developing a smart application strategy. |
National Resident Matching Program® (NRMP®)
The NRMP® is a private, not-for-profit organization that matches medical school students and graduates to graduate medical education (GME) training programs in the United States. The standard registration fee for the Main Residency Match® allows for the submission of up to 20 ranked programs and access to data and reports. Review the complete fee structure, current schedule of dates for NRMP® Matches, and learn how the matching algorithm works by visiting the NRMP® website.
| Match Fees |
|---|
| Standard Registration Fee: $70 (up to 20 programs) |
| Extra Rank Fee: $30 per program code |
Total Costs
Application costs are just one component of the equation when determining total cost of applying for residency. To accurately account for the total expense, applicants must consider the application fees as well as the costs associated with interview activities. Together, these two areas equate to the total amount that will be invested in the pursuit of a residency position. Review the The Cost of Interviewing for Residency fact sheet.
| Application Fees + Interview Expenses = Total Cost |
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If you need help with anything related to the ERAS program, check this Frequently Asked Questions for ERAS Residency Applicants. If you cannot locate the answers you need, you can contact the ERAS team by sending a message or contacting the ERAS Support at 202-862-6264 (Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET).
For assistance with handling your finances during residency, check out the resources available from FIRST.
