Quick Answer: When does ERAS open for 2026-2027, and what should you have ready before applications go live?

ERAS opens in early June 2026. Applications can be submitted starting in early September 2026. Programs begin reviewing applications in late September and may send interview invitations within days.

Before September, you need:

• A polished 700-850 word personal statement
• Four confirmed letters of recommendation
• Your Step 2 CK score report
• A complete target program list with specific requirements
• Detailed descriptions of up to ten activities in your experiences section

Early submission is critical. Competitive interview slots fill quickly once programs start reviewing applications.

Securing a residency position requires careful planning and strategic timing. This comprehensive guide walks you through every phase of the application process, from initial preparation to Match Day, ensuring you stay on track without unnecessary stress.

VSLO

Visiting Student Learning Opportunities allow students to apply to audition or away rotations at host institutions. Because away rotations are becoming essential for most competitive residency specialties and programs, we consider applying for away rotations to be paramount and an essential component of the residency match programs.

Read more: VSLO Complete Guide: Everything Medical Students Need to Know About Away Rotations

Understanding the ERAS Application System

When applying for residency, you'll work primarily through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). This centralized platform streamlines how medical students submit materials to training programs across the country. Think of it as the residency equivalent of AMCAS or AACOMAS, but with its own unique features and requirements.

The system consists of four interconnected platforms serving different stakeholders. As an applicant, you'll primarily interact with MyERAS, where you'll build your profile, upload documents, and submit applications. Meanwhile, your medical school's dean's office uses a separate portal to upload institutional materials, letter writers access a dedicated system for recommendation submissions, and program directors review applications through their own interface.

How the Process Works

Your medical school's designated dean's office will provide you with a unique access token. This one-time code allows you to create your MyERAS account and begin building your application. You'll input your experiences, draft your personal statement, and designate which programs should receive your materials.

Simultaneously, your recommenders upload their letters directly to the system, your dean's office prepares your Medical School Performance Evaluation (MSPE), and testing organizations transmit your USMLE or COMLEX scores. Once everything is assembled, programs gain access to your complete application package through their review portal.

Critical Dates for the 2026-2027 Residency Application Cycle

Based on historical patterns, here are the projected key dates for your application year. While official dates haven't been announced yet, these estimates follow ERAS's consistent scheduling:

Important note: ERAS typically maintains consistent timing year over year. The 2025-2026 cycle opened June 4th and allowed submissions starting September 3rd, with program access beginning September 24th. Expect similar dates for your cycle, likely falling on the same weekdays in 2026.

Recent ERAS Application Changes You Need to Know

The residency application landscape evolves annually. Understanding recent modifications helps you navigate the process more effectively.

For the current cycle, several significant updates were implemented. The AAMC partnered with Thalamus to consolidate interview scheduling platforms, reducing the complexity of coordinating multiple interviews. Certain specialties introduced enhanced signaling options, allowing applicants in anesthesiology and plastic surgery to provide detailed explanations for their program preferences.

Additionally, specialty-specific supplemental questions now appear for applicants in anesthesiology, neurosurgery, and plastic surgery integrated tracks. Surgical subspecialties like otolaryngology and orthopedics gained flexibility in geographic preference reporting. The geographic preferences section expanded to include locations where applicants previously resided and maintained meaningful connections, not just current addresses.

Finally, the AAMC modified terminology around training interruptions, changing "and" to "or" to clarify reporting requirements, while also permitting inclusion of non-ACGME training experiences in certain contexts.

Building Your ERAS Application: Essential Components

Your residency application comprises five major elements, each requiring thoughtful preparation and attention to detail.

Experience Descriptions

This section functions as your professional portfolio, showcasing the breadth of your medical training. You'll describe up to ten significant activities spanning research projects, volunteer work, leadership roles, and clinical experiences. The system allows you to designate three as particularly meaningful.

Structure each description to answer three fundamental questions: what the activity entailed, what specific contributions or impact you made, and what insights or skills you gained. Keep descriptions concise but substantive. Reviewers will reference this section when preparing interview questions, so accuracy and clarity are paramount. We recommend writing in a narrative format rather than using bullets, but not everyone agrees with this approach.

Crafting Your Residency Personal Statement

Unlike your medical school essay, which focused on why you wanted to become a physician, your residency statement must articulate why you've chosen a specific specialty and what makes you an exceptional candidate for training programs.

You've now completed years of clinical rotations, developed professional relationships with attending physicians, and gained concrete understanding of different specialties. Your statement should reflect this maturity and specificity. Discuss formative patient encounters, meaningful mentorship, or pivotal moments during rotations that crystallized your specialty choice.

While the system permits up to 28,000 characters, effective statements typically run 700-850 words. Focus on quality over quantity. A compelling, authentic narrative makes a stronger impression than a lengthy, unfocused essay. Consider this your sole opportunity to speak directly to program directors about what's not captured elsewhere in your application.

Read: The Residency Match Personal Statement

Securing Strong Residency Recommendation Letters

Letters provide program directors with crucial third-party validation of your abilities and potential. You'll need four letters per program, strategically selected to paint a comprehensive picture of your capabilities.

Ideal recommenders include attending physicians who supervised you directly during clinical rotations, department chairs in your chosen specialty, and research mentors who can speak to your scholarly abilities. At least two letters should come from someone prominent in your target specialty who can specifically endorse your suitability for that field.

Start identifying potential letter writers early. Physicians who know you well and can provide specific examples of your clinical skills, professionalism, and growth make far stronger advocates than prestigious names who barely know you. Your dean's letter and MSPE don't count toward your four letters, so choose carefully.

Including a Professional Photograph

Though technically optional, including a professional headshot is strongly recommended. A polished photo helps program directors connect your application with a face, making you more memorable among hundreds of candidates.

Technical requirements are specific: dimensions must be 2.5 by 3.5 inches, resolution should be 150 dpi, and file size cannot exceed 100 kilobytes. More important than technical specs, however, is the impression your photo conveys. Choose professional attire similar to what you'd wear for interviews, ensure good lighting, select a neutral background, and most importantly, smile naturally.

If you don't know a photographer personally, investing in a professional headshot is worthwhile. This is not the place for a cropped photo from a wedding or a selfie taken in your apartment. The cost is minimal compared to your overall investment in medical education.

Requesting Official Transcripts

Your USMLE or COMLEX transcript must be officially transmitted to ERAS. Initiate this request during the summer, as processing can take several weeks. Since Step 2 CK scores heavily influence screening decisions, schedule this exam with sufficient time for scores to arrive before you submit applications in early September.

Your medical school handles MSPE preparation and transcript submission through their dean's office portal. Confirm with your school's administration what documentation they need from you and when they require it.

Your Month-by-Month Residency Match Application Action Plan

January Through April

This period focuses on two critical tasks: excelling on Step 2 CK and laying groundwork for away rotations.

Step 2 CK serves as the primary screening metric for most programs. Competitive specialties like dermatology and orthopedic surgery now see average Step 2 scores around 257. Develop a structured study plan early, allocating sufficient time to master clinical knowledge while balancing ongoing clerkship responsibilities.

Simultaneously, research away rotation opportunities if your specialty requires or recommends them. Some fields expect audition rotations, while others don't. Understand your specialty's norms and plan accordingly. Keep an eye on the Visiting Student Learning Opportunities portal as every program has its own opening date for applications.

Winter and early spring also provide ideal timing for administrative tasks that become burdensome later. Update all required immunizations, obtain necessary certifications (like ACLS), and refresh your curriculum vitae. Completing these mundane but essential tasks now prevents last-minute scrambling during the stressful summer months.

Begin cultivating relationships with potential letter writers. If you've already identified attendings you'd like to ask, approach them early with a polite inquiry about their willingness to write a strong letter. Early requests are more likely to receive enthusiastic responses than eleventh-hour appeals.

Finally, start documenting your extracurricular activities in detail. Record dates, roles, accomplishments, and meaningful moments while memories are fresh. These notes will prove invaluable when completing your application's experiences section.

Priority tasks:

• Create a Step 2 CK study schedule and stick to it
• Research and plan away rotations - keep an eye on VSLO
• Complete immunizations, certifications, and CV updates
• Identify and approach potential letter writers
• Maintain detailed notes on all extracurricular activities

April Through June

As clerkships wind down, shift focus toward understanding the application process comprehensively.

Familiarize yourself with ERAS mechanics: when does the portal open, what documents are required, how do you designate programs? Many students underestimate the complexity and time required to complete applications thoroughly.

Begin serious personal statement work. Brainstorm themes, reflect on pivotal experiences, and start drafting. Some away rotations require personal statements, which provides beneficial practice for your main application essay. Don't aim for perfection in early drafts. Focus on getting ideas onto paper and refining them through multiple revisions.

Research programs systematically. What are their specific requirements? Do they require particular letter writers or have geographic preferences? Building a spreadsheet of program requirements now saves time later.

Priority tasks:

• Thoroughly review ERAS application requirements and timeline
• Contact programs of interest to clarify specific requirements
• Begin brainstorming and drafting your personal statement
• Create a comprehensive program research spreadsheet

Early June

Application season officially launches in early June. This is go-time for system access and final logistical preparations.

Contact your dean's office immediately to obtain your MyERAS access token. Don't delay on this. Set up your account as soon as possible to familiarize yourself with the interface and begin inputting information.

Determine whether your target programs require the Casper situational judgment test or other Acuity Insights assessments. Some specialties mandate these additional evaluations, and scheduling them requires advance planning.

Priority tasks:

• Obtain your access token from the dean's office
• Register for MyERAS and explore the platform
• Determine if you need to schedule Casper or other supplemental assessments

June

With system access secured, June centers on populating your application with content.

Begin entering all experiences, using your detailed notes to craft descriptions that are specific, active, and insightful. Don't just list responsibilities; explain what you learned and how you grew.

Simultaneously, intensify personal statement writing. Multiple drafts are essential. Write, set aside for a few days, then revise with fresh eyes. Share drafts with trusted mentors for feedback. A well-crafted statement requires time and iteration.

Finalize your letter writers if you haven't already. Confirm each person's willingness and provide them with necessary information: your CV, personal statement draft, and specific qualities you hope they'll address.

Compile your preliminary program list. While you'll refine this throughout summer, establishing a working list helps you understand the scope of applications you're planning.

Priority tasks:

• Input all experiences into MyERAS with detailed descriptions
• Write and revise personal statement drafts continuously
• Formally request letters from all recommenders
• Develop preliminary list of target programs

July and August

Summer represents crunch time. Your goal is completing every application element before the September submission window opens.

Finalize your program list based on thorough research. Consider geographic preferences, program culture, training philosophy, and career goals. Quality research now prevents regret later.

Request all transcripts and ensure they're transmitted properly. Follow up to confirm receipt. Don't assume anything happens automatically.

Continue personal statement revisions until it's polished and compelling. Consider professional editing if you're struggling to reach the level of quality needed for competitive programs.

Touch base with letter writers to confirm they're on track for timely submission. A gentle reminder is appropriate and appreciated.

Finally, begin interview preparation. Review common residency interview questions, practice articulating your narrative, and develop thoughtful questions to ask programs. Early preparation reduces anxiety when invitations arrive.

Priority tasks:

• Finalize complete program list
• Request and confirm receipt of all transcripts
• Complete final personal statement revisions
• Confirm letter writers are prepared to submit on time
• Begin structured interview preparation

September

Application submission month requires both urgency and precision.

Submit your completed application as soon as ERAS opens for submissions in early September. Don't wait. Programs receive access to applications in late September, and interviews are often extended to early applicants who demonstrate strong interest.

Submitting early doesn't mean submitting hastily. Triple-check every section. Errors or omissions can't be corrected after programs access your materials.

Concurrently, register for the National Resident Matching Program. This is a separate system from ERAS and requires its own registration process.

Once applications are submitted, shift immediately into interview mode. Programs can extend invitations as soon as they access applications. Monitor your email constantly and respond promptly to interview offers.

Priority tasks:

• Submit completed application when ERAS opens (early September)
• Register for the NRMP Match
• Monitor email continuously for interview invitations
• Respond immediately to interview offers to secure preferred dates

October Through February

The next five months constitute interview season, demanding flexibility, organization, and stamina.

Interview invitations arrive unpredictably. Competitive slots fill within hours of invitations being sent. Check your email constantly, including spam folders. Respond immediately when invitations arrive.

Maintain a flexible schedule. Avoid major commitments that could conflict with potential interview dates. Keep your calendar updated in real-time so you can identify optimal interview slots instantly when opportunities arise.

Prepare thoroughly for each interview. Research the program, review your application materials, and practice articulating your interest in both the specialty and that specific institution. Interviews often occur virtually, so ensure you have reliable technology and an appropriate setting.

Priority tasks:

• Monitor email relentlessly for interview invitations
• Respond immediately to secure preferred dates
• Research each program thoroughly before interviews
• Maintain calendar flexibility for spontaneous interview opportunities

March: Match Week

The third week of March brings Match Week, culminating your year-long journey.

Monday morning, you'll learn whether you matched, though not yet where. This binary information determines your next steps. Matched applicants can relax and wait for Friday's location reveal. Unmatched or partially matched candidates immediately enter the SOAP (Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program) process.

SOAP runs Monday through Thursday, requiring rapid applications and interviews for remaining unfilled positions. It's intense and stressful, but thousands of students successfully match through SOAP annually.

Friday at noon Eastern, Match Day arrives. You'll receive an email revealing your placement. Programs simultaneously receive their new resident rosters.

Priority tasks:

• Prepare emotionally for Monday's initial notification
• If unmatched, engage immediately in SOAP process
• Celebrate (or decompress) appropriately after Friday's results

Maximizing Your Residency Match Application Success

Strong applications don't happen by accident. They result from strategic planning, consistent effort, and often, expert guidance.

Consider which aspects of your application might benefit from professional support. Personal statement editing, interview coaching, and strategic advising can meaningfully improve outcomes, particularly for applicants targeting competitive specialties or overcoming application weaknesses.

The residency application represents one of your career's most significant undertakings. Investing appropriate time, energy, and resources now pays dividends for your entire professional life.

At MedEdits we have been assisting applicants to competitive residency programs for more than 18 years. Physician-founded and led, we maintain a boutique approach so each applicant receives personalized and strategic guidance.