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Every year, thousands of medical students and graduates eagerly await their residency match results. For some, however, the outcome can be disheartening. If you find yourself unmatched, remember: not matching isn’t the end of your medical career. With strategic planning, persistence, and a clear understanding of your options, you can still secure a residency position. This guide will walk you through your next steps, including navigating the Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP), and other alternatives to help you achieve your goals of matching.
What is SOAP?
The Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP) is a process that allows unmatched residency candidates to apply for unfilled residency positions after the main Match. SOAP is an opportunity to secure a spot and begin your medical career, so it’s important to act quickly and strategically. Eligible unmatched or partially matched applicants will be able to access the list of unfilled positions.
*Of note, applicants and their representatives CANNOT communicate with a residency program until contacted by that program. If an applicant or their representatives communicate with a residency program before the program has contacted them, it will be considered a match violation.
Am I eligible to participate in soap?
To participate in SOAP, you must meet the following criteria:
Registered with the NRMP Main Residency Match
Eligible to start graduate medical education on July 1st, 2025, as verified by ECFMG
Be unmatched or partially matched on Monday of Match Week
**Of note, Obstetrics & Gynecology applicants using Residency CAS will still be able to participate in the SOAP through Residency CAS. Applicants are encouraged to review the ResidencyCAS support website, where they can find more information regarding SOAP such as:
The SOAP ResidencyCAS Schedule
Pre-SOAP Tasks
What to Do During SOAP
SOAP Resources for ResidencyCAS Applicants
SOAP Applicant FAQs
What is the timeline of SOAP?
For the 2024-2025 Match, SOAP starts on March 17th and ends on March 20th. The entire timeline is as follows:
Date/Time | Event |
---|---|
March 17th - 10:00 a.m. ET | SOAP begins |
March 18th - 8:00 a.m. ET | Programs can start reviewing applications |
March 19th - All Day | Programs continue reviewing applications, conducting interviews, and creating/certifying SOAP preference lists in the R3 system. |
March 20th - 9:00 a.m. ET | Applicants receive Round 1 offers |
March 20th - 11:00 a.m. ET | Applicant deadline to reject/accept offers |
March 20th - 12:00 p.m. ET | Applicants receive Round 2 offers |
March 20th - 2:00 p.m. ET | Applicant deadline to reject/accept offers |
March 20th - 3:00 p.m. ET | Applicant receive Round 3 offers |
March 20th - 5:00 p.m. ET | Applicant deadline to reject/accept offers |
March 20th - 6:00 p.m. ET | Applicants receive Round 4 offers |
March 20th - 8:00 p.m. ET | Applicant deadline to reject/accept offers |
March 20th - 8:30 p.m. ET | Programs update their number of remaining unfilled positions on the List of Unfilled Programs. |
March 20th - 9 p.m. ET | SOAP ends |
Steps to Navigate SOAP Effectively
Prepare Early
Before Match Week, ensure your Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) application is complete and ready for SOAP. This includes updated personal statements, letters of recommendation, and other essential documents.
Stay Calm and Strategic
Once SOAP begins, review the list of unfilled positions carefully. Focus on programs that align with your qualifications and interests, but try to remain flexible with specialties and locations. By being open, you broaden your chances of matching.
Submit Applications Quickly
During SOAP, time is critical. Submit your applications to selected programs as soon as the application window opens.
Communicate Professionally
If a program contacts you for an interview, respond promptly and professionally. This is your chance to stand out among other candidates. Remember to have your phone ringer on. If you may be working or are in a rotation, alert your preceptor or supervisor how crucial having access to your phone and email at this time is.
Be Ready to Accept
If you receive an offer during SOAP, decide quickly. You’ll have limited time to accept, and this could be your only opportunity to secure a position for the year. However, keep in mind that you will be attending this program for the next 3 to 5 years and it should be a program you would be happy to be a resident at.
Alternatives to SOAP
If SOAP doesn’t result in a match, don’t lose hope. There are several paths you can take to strengthen your candidacy for the next application cycle:
Reach Out to Programs Directly
After the Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP) concludes, applicants can directly contact programs that still have open residency positions by accessing the "List of Unfilled Programs" provided by the NRMP. During SOAP, applicants are NOT allowed to reach out to programs outside of the NRMP SOAP. However, once SOAP ends, unmatched applicants are free to reach out to any programs listed as having unfilled spots.
Gain More Clinical Experience
Participate in US Clinical Experience (USCE), such as observerships or externships, to improve your application. Programs like MD2B Connect can help you find quality rotations that enhance your clinical skills and provide strong letters of recommendation.
Strengthen Your Application
Rewrite your personal statement to better reflect your goals and experiences.
Request additional letters of recommendation from mentors who know you well.
Improve your Step scores, if applicable, by retaking exams or focusing on high-yield areas.
Pursue Research Opportunities
Engaging in clinical or academic research can make your application stand out. It demonstrates your commitment to advancing medical knowledge and gaining expertise in your specialty of interest.
Consider a Different Specialty
If your desired specialty is highly competitive, consider applying to a less competitive one. Gaining a residency position in another specialty can still lead to a fulfilling medical career.
Enroll in a Master’s or Fellowship Program
Programs in public health, healthcare management, or other related fields can enhance your resume and provide you with valuable insights into the healthcare system.
Network with Program Directors and Alumni
Attend conferences, reach out to alumni from your medical school, or connect with program directors. Networking can open doors to opportunities and provide valuable advice for future applications.
Staying Resilient
The post-match process can be emotionally challenging, but resilience is key. Surround yourself with a strong support system of mentors, peers, friends, and family. Reflect on your goals, identify areas for improvement, and remain steadfast in your commitment to becoming a physician. We understand how devastating it can be to receive the message that you did not match. We want to remind you that not matching does not define you or your career path.
Conclusion
Not matching into a residency program is undoubtedly a setback, but it’s not the end of your journey. The SOAP process offers unmatched candidates a chance to secure unfilled residency positions, while alternative pathways provide opportunities to strengthen your application for future match cycles ultimately helping you build on your candidacy. By staying proactive, flexible, and persistent, you can overcome this hurdle and achieve your goals in medicine.
For personalized guidance and resources, consider using our other resources through our blog, YouTube channel, and social media platforms. For more advanced advice, we welcome you to utilize our Admissions Services and US clinical experience program to help you navigate and plan your next steps.
Remember, every successful physician has faced challenges—this is just one part of your story. Keep moving forward and, on behalf of our entire team, wishing you all the best!
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