Applying to the Pathology Residency Program
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The Laboratory Medicine and Pathology residency training program at the University of Minnesota Medical School is distinctive in having a nationally recognized commitment to both clinical and anatomic pathology and the structural flexibility to customize training plans for community, academic, and research careers. The program's breadth and expertise is unique among training programs in the United States. Applicants may choose from anatomic only, clinical only, and combined anatomic and clinical pathology tracks.
First year resident applicants are required to apply through ERAS, the Electronic Residency Application Service. Completed applications must be received no later than December 1 for positions beginning July 1 of the following year.
In summary, application requires the following:
- Completed application form
- Medical School Dean's letter
- Personal statement
- Medical School and pre-medical transcripts (originals or certified copies)
- USMLE scores
- Current letters of recommendation (3)
- Copy of ECFMG certificate if graduated from foreign school
- Any other appropriate credentials, e.g., clinical-base documentation of entering at CA-1 level
In general, the Program accepts new PGY-1 residents through the NRMP, National Residency Match Program. Rare outstanding applicants are considered outside of the match for PGY-1 positions.
Advanced level resident applicants who are considering transfer from another pathology program or medical specialty should write the Program Coordinator and request an application. Direct inquires to:
Gina Deveney
GME Program Coordinator
Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology
University of Minnesota Medical School
420 Delaware St. SE/MMC 609
Minneapolis, MN 55455
Fax: (612) 625-3976
deveneyg@umn.edu
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mechanism for applications via the NRMP Match?
Only through the ERAS (Electronic Residency Application Service) system.
What is the information required though ERAS?
- Completed application form
- Medical School Dean's letter
- Personal statement
- Medical School and pre-medical transcripts (originals or certified copies)
- USMLE scores
- Current letters of recommendation (3)
- Curriculum Vitae
- Copy of ECFMG certificate if graduated from foreign school
- Any other appropriate credentials, e.g., clinical-base documentation of entering at CA-1 level
Is there a specific USMLE "cut-off" score?
Scores of 80 or more are required.
Do you take into consideration the year of graduation, and if so in what way?
Yes, we accept candidates up to 8 years after MD graduation.
Any special letter of reference required or recommended?
Letters of reference are at the discretion of the applicant. In general, strong letters from experts both within pathology, as well as those outside of pathology are desirable.
Do you require any previous US clinical experience?
We have found this is very helpful and desirable to the successful applicant.
Do you accept IMGs to your residency program?
Yes
What percentage of your residents are IMG?
Of the 5 first-year residents beginning their program in July 2009, 3 graduated from a U.S. medical school, 1 from a Caribbean medical school, and 1 from a foreign medical school.
What is your minimum USMLE score for each step 1 and 2?
See answer above.
Do you accept J1 Visa?
Yes
Do you accept H1-B Visa?
No
Are there any special requirements for foreign medical graduates?
USMLE examination scores; appropriate Visa status; and fluency in English. Foreign medical graduates must be ECFMG certified to apply.
How many positions are available?
Each year, we match five PGY-1 positions.
How many current residents are there in your program?
The ACGME has certified 26 residents in training in our program.