Factors used by program directors to select residents

TLDR

The study surveyed 405 program directors nationwide to assess how they select residents. The survey confirmed that interviews are the primary selection factor, but rising competition has amplified the weight of academic credentials—most directors require NBME Part I passing and favor strong elective performance—turning senior‑year electives into a residency chase.

Abstract

A national, stratified random sample of 405 graduate medical education program directors was surveyed on the way they selected their residents. The results from the 237 respondents reaffirm earlier studies which found that the interview was the most important selection variable. The results indicate that the recent increase in competition for residency positions has increased the importance of academic variables. For example, 86 percent of the respondents stated that they would not rank a candidate who had not passed the National Board of Medical Examiners Part I examination. Because 86 percent also stated that they give preference in ranking students to those who have done well in an elective at their hospitals, the senior year of medical school may be used as a “residency chase” rather than for the general professional education of the physician.