Apply Smart: Data to Consider When Applying to Residency
Does submitting one more application always help?
Our researchers suspected that — unlike buying raffle tickets, where the more tickets you buy, the better your chances of winning — additional applications to residency do not necessarily increase chances of getting accepted to a program. We set out to determine if there was a point where the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the likelihood of entry into a residency changes. Or, simply put, a point of diminishing returns. For more information on how we conducted these analyses and important context when interpreting these results, please refer to the research methodology and our overall research conclusions.
As you consider the number of residency programs you apply to, consider the strength of your entire application as well as your personal circumstances. But also note: though it varies by specialty, Step 1 scores, and applicant type, there is a point at which submitting one more application results in a lower rate of return on likelihood of entering a residency program.
The diminishing returns data — along with other resources — can help determine the best plan for your residency applications.
Special note to IMG applicants
Select your applicant type from the drop-down menu to reveal the specialty choices. Choose your specialty to reveal the relevant data. In some cases, entrance rates or a point of diminishing returns cannot be reported due to small sample size.
For more information on how we conducted these analyses and important context and caveats when interpreting these results, please refer to the research methodology and our overall research conclusions.
Anesthesiology (U.S. DO)
The study included data from 843 U.S.-DO applicants who applied to the Anesthesiology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Anesthesiology |
Entered training in Anesthesiology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 211 |
281 |
94 |
33% |
73 |
26% |
114 |
41% |
Score 212-229 |
287 |
189 |
66% |
41 |
14% |
57 |
20% |
Score ≥ 230 |
275 |
209 |
76% |
37 |
13% |
29 |
11% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
69 |
14 |
20% |
22 |
32% |
33 |
48% |
*Outside of Anesthesiology training programs, the most common specialties where Anesthesiology applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Diagnostic Radiology or General Surgery (tied). The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Anesthesiology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Anesthesiology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Anesthesiology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering an Anesthesiology residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering an Anesthesiology residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 230 (yellow line) submitted 32 applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (confidence band of 26 to 39). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 81%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 212 to 229 (green line) submitted 36 applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (confidence band of 27 to 45). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 70%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
The point of diminishing returns for applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 211 could not be estimated because of the small sample size and a low base rate of entry into Anesthesiology residency programs for applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores in this range.
Dermatology (U.S. DO)
The study included data from 113 U.S.-DO applicants who applied to the Dermatology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Dermatology applicants (total number = 113) |
Entered training in Dermatology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 213 |
38 |
-- |
-- |
11 |
29% |
25 |
66% |
Score 214-237 |
38 |
-- |
-- |
18 |
47% |
12 |
32% |
Score ≥ 238 |
37 |
18 |
49% |
11 |
30% |
-- |
-- |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
*The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
Because the number of applicants who entered training in this specialty was less than 10 for multiple Step 1 score terciles, we are not able to report the exact percentages or trends for specialty entrance rates for those terciles.
Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
Diagnostic Radiology (U.S. DO)
The study included data from 489 U.S.-DO applicants who applied to the Diagnostic Radiology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Diagnostic Radiology applicants (total number = 489) |
Entered training in Diagnostic Radiology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 216 |
165 |
49 |
30% |
33 |
20% |
83 |
50% |
Score 217-237 |
161 |
105 |
65% |
26 |
16% |
30 |
19% |
Score ≥ 238 |
163 |
111 |
68% |
32 |
20% |
20 |
12% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
33 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
19 |
58% |
*Outside of Diagnostic Radiology training programs, the most common specialties where Diagnostic Radiology applicants entered training were Anesthesiology, Family Medicine, and Internal Medicine. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Diagnostic Radiology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Diagnostic Radiology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Diagnostic Radiology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering a Diagnostic Radiology residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering a Diagnostic Radiology residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 238 (yellow line) submitted 40 applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (confidence band of 30 to 49). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 77%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 217 to 237 (green line) submitted 41 applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (confidence band of 30 to 52). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 84%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
The point of diminishing returns for applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 216 could not be estimated because of the small sample size and a low base rate of entry into Diagnostic Radiology residency programs for applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores in this range.
Emergency Medicine (U.S. DO)
The study included data from 1,574 U.S.-DO applicants who applied to the Emergency Medicine training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Emergency Medicine applicants (total number = 1,574) |
Entered training in Emergency Medicine |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 213 |
530 |
235 |
44% |
109 |
21% |
186 |
35% |
Score 214-229 |
532 |
313 |
59% |
91 |
17% |
128 |
24% |
Score ≥ 230 |
512 |
372 |
73% |
77 |
15% |
63 |
12% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
80 |
15 |
19% |
24 |
30% |
41 |
51% |
*Outside of Emergency Medicine training programs, the most common specialties where Emergency Medicine applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Anesthesiology. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Emergency Medicine and the percentage of applicants who entered in Emergency Medicine by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Emergency Medicine training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering an Emergency Medicine residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering an Emergency Medicine residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 230 (yellow line) submitted 36 applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (confidence band of 30 to 43). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 78%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 214 to 229 (green line) submitted 35 applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (confidence band of 29 to 41). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 68%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 213 (dark orange line) submitted 38 applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (confidence band of 26 to 49). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 54%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Family Medicine (U.S. DO)
The study included data from 1,879 U.S.-DO applicants who applied to the Family Medicine training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
|
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Family Medicine and the percentage of applicants who entered in Family Medicine by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Family Medicine training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering a Family Medicine residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering a Family Medicine residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 218 (yellow line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (15 applications; confidence band of 11 to 20) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores < 218. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 51%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 203 to 217 (green line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (24 applications; confidence band of 12 to 35) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 202. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 65%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 202 (dark orange line) submitted the highest number of applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (26 applications; confidence band of 17 to 36). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 62%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
General Surgery (U.S. DO)
The study included data from 1,341 U.S.-DO applicants who applied to the General Surgery training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam. These data include applicants who applied to, and entered, training in preliminary and categorical positions.
Specialty Entrance Rates
|
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in General Surgery and the percentage of applicants who entered in General Surgery by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered General Surgery training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Internal Medicine (U.S. DO)
The study included data from 3,331 U.S.-DO applicants who applied to the Internal Medicine training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam. These data include applicants who applied to, and entered, training in preliminary and categorical positions.
Specialty Entrance Rates
|
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Internal Medicine and the percentage of applicants who entered in Internal Medicine by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Internal Medicine training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering an Internal Medicine residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering an Internal Medicine residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 228 (yellow line) submitted 29 applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (confidence band of 25 to 33). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 72%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 211 to 227 (green line) submitted 26 applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (confidence band of 22 to 30). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 68%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 210 (dark orange line) submitted 29 applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (confidence band of 18 to 39). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 49%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Internal Medicine - Pediatrics (U.S. DO)
The study included data from 169 U.S.-DO applicants who applied to the Internal Medicine - Pediatrics training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Internal Medicine - Pediatrics applicants (total number = 169) |
Entered training in Internal Medicine - Pediatrics |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 208 |
56 |
-- |
-- |
28 |
50% |
22 |
39% |
Score 209-224 |
57 |
22 |
39% |
22 |
39% |
13 |
23% |
Score ≥ 225 |
56 |
36 |
64% |
15 |
27% |
-- |
-- |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
17 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
*Outside of Internal Medicine - Pediatrics training programs, the most common specialties where Internal Medicine - Pediatrics applicants entered training were Pediatrics, Internal Medicine, and Family Medicine. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Internal Medicine - Pediatrics and the percentage of applicants who entered in Internal Medicine - Pediatrics by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Internal Medicine - Pediatrics training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Neurology (U.S. DO)
The study included data from 233 U.S.-DO applicants who applied to the Neurology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
|
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Neurology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Neurology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Neurology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Obstetrics and Gynecology (U.S. DO)
The study included data from 650 U.S.-DO applicants who applied to the Obstetrics and Gynecology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Obstetrics and Gynecology applicants (total number = 650) |
Entered training in Obstetrics and Gynecology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 209 |
221 |
88 |
40% |
67 |
30% |
66 |
30% |
Score 210-224 |
215 |
117 |
54% |
52 |
24% |
46 |
21% |
Score ≥ 225 |
214 |
127 |
59% |
46 |
21% |
41 |
19% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
55 |
16 |
29% |
15 |
27% |
24 |
44% |
*Outside of Obstetrics and Gynecology training programs, the most common specialties where Obstetrics and Gynecology applicants entered training were Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, and Anesthesiology or General Surgery or Pediatrics (tied). The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Obstetrics and Gynecology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Obstetrics and Gynecology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Obstetrics and Gynecology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering an Obstetrics and Gynecology residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering an Obstetrics and Gynecology residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 225 (yellow line) submitted 32 applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (confidence band of 25 to 39). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 67%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 210 to 224 (green line) submitted 26 applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (confidence band of 15 to 37). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 56%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 209 (dark orange line) submitted the highest number of applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (48 applications; confidence band of 24 to 71). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 52%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Orthopedic Surgery (U.S. DO)
The study included data from 227 U.S.-DO applicants who applied to the Orthopedic Surgery training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
|
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Orthopedic Surgery and the percentage of applicants who entered in Orthopedic Surgery by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Orthopedic Surgery training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Otolaryngology (U.S. DO)
The study included data from 104 U.S.-DO applicants who applied to the Otolaryngology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Otolaryngology |
Entered training in |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 222 |
35 |
-- |
-- |
17 |
49% |
17 |
49% |
Score 223-241 |
35 |
-- |
-- |
16 |
46% |
12 |
34% |
Score ≥ 242 |
34 |
10 |
29% |
-- |
-- |
15 |
44% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
*Outside of Otolaryngology training programs, the most common specialty where Otolaryngology applicants entered training was General Surgery. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
Because the number of applicants who entered training in this specialty was less than 10 for multiple Step 1 score terciles, we are not able to report the exact percentages or trends for specialty entrance rates for those terciles.
Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
Pathology (U.S. DO)
The study included data from 244 U.S.-DO applicants who applied to the Pathology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Pathology applicants (total number = 244) |
Entered training in Pathology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 207 |
81 |
34 |
42% |
14 |
17% |
33 |
41% |
Score 208-227 |
81 |
53 |
65% |
-- |
-- |
21 |
26% |
Score ≥ 228 |
82 |
52 |
63% |
14 |
17% |
16 |
20% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
20 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
10 |
50% |
*The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Pathology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Pathology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Pathology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Pediatrics (U.S. DO)
The study included data from 1,074 U.S.-DO applicants who applied to the Pediatrics training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
|
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Pediatrics and the percentage of applicants who entered in Pediatrics by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Pediatrics training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering a Pediatrics residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering a Pediatrics residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 224 (yellow line) submitted 21 applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (confidence band of 16 to 26). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 62%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 208 to 223 (green line) submitted 16 applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (confidence band of 11 to 21). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 58%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from ≤ 207 (dark orange line) submitted 21 applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (confidence band of 17 to 24). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 68%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Plastic Surgery - Integrated (U.S. DO)
The study included data from 51 U.S.-DO applicants who applied to the Integrated Plastic Surgery training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Integrated Plastic Surgery applicants (total number = 51) |
Entered training in Integrated Plastic Surgery |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 212 |
17 |
-- |
-- |
10 |
59% |
-- |
-- |
Score 213-237 |
18 |
-- |
-- |
14 |
78% |
-- |
-- |
Score ≥ 238 |
16 |
-- |
-- |
12 |
75% |
-- |
-- |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
*Outside of Integrated Plastic Surgery training programs, the most common specialty where Integrated Plastic Surgery applicants entered training was General Surgery. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
Because the number of applicants who entered training in this specialty was less than 10 for multiple Step 1 score terciles, we are not able to report the exact percentages or trends for specialty entrance rates for those terciles.
Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
Psychiatry (U.S. DO)
The study included data from 571 U.S.-DO applicants who applied to the Psychiatry training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Psychiatry applicants (total number = 571) |
Entered training in Psychiatry |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 202 |
198 |
92 |
46% |
30 |
15% |
76 |
38% |
Score 203-219 |
184 |
108 |
59% |
28 |
15% |
48 |
26% |
Score ≥ 220 |
189 |
115 |
61% |
31 |
16% |
43 |
23% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
86 |
36 |
42% |
11 |
13% |
39 |
45% |
*Outside of Psychiatry training programs, the most common specialties where Psychiatry applicants entered training were Internal Medicine and Family Medicine. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Psychiatry and the percentage of applicants who entered in Psychiatry by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Psychiatry training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering a Psychiatry residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering a Psychiatry residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 220 (yellow line) submitted 26 applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (confidence band of 18 to 34). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 75%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 203 to 219 (green line) submitted 23 applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (confidence band of 16 to 30). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 63%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 202 (dark orange line) submitted 27 applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (confidence band of 16 to 39). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 60%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Radiation Oncology (U.S. DO)
The study included data from 52 U.S.-DO applicants who applied to the Radiation Oncology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Radiation Oncology applicants (total number = 52) |
Entered training in Radiation Oncology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 207 |
17 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
Score 208-230 |
17 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
Score ≥ 231 |
18 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
*The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
Because the number of applicants who entered training in this specialty was less than 10 for multiple Step 1 score terciles, we are not able to report the exact percentages or trends for specialty entrance rates for those terciles.
Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
Urology (U.S. DO)
The study included data from 81 U.S.-DO applicants who applied to the Urology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Urology applicants (total number = 81) |
Entered training in Urology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 228 |
29 |
-- |
-- |
11 |
38% |
10 |
34% |
Score 229-239 |
25 |
-- |
-- |
10 |
40% |
-- |
-- |
Score ≥ 240 |
27 |
17 |
63% |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
*The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
Because the number of applicants who entered training in this specialty was less than 10 for multiple Step 1 score terciles, we are not able to report the exact percentages or trends for specialty entrance rates for those terciles.
Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
Integrated Vascular Surgery (U.S. DO)
The study included data from 56 U.S.-DO applicants who applied to the Integrated Vascular Surgery training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Integrated Vascular Surgery applicants (total number = 56) |
Entered training in Integrated Vascular Surgery |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 215 |
19 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
Score 216-231 |
20 |
-- |
-- |
12 |
60% |
-- |
-- |
Score ≥ 232 |
17 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
*The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
Because the number of applicants who entered training in this specialty was less than 10 for multiple Step 1 score terciles, we are not able to report the exact percentages or trends for specialty entrance rates for those terciles.
Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
Anesthesiology (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 1,145 non-U.S. IMG applicants who applied to the Anesthesiology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Anesthesiology |
Entered training in Anesthesiology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 215 |
401 |
52 |
13% |
56 |
14% |
293 |
73% |
Score 216-233 |
368 |
108 |
29% |
69 |
19% |
191 |
52% |
Score ≥ 234 |
376 |
162 |
43% |
105 |
28% |
109 |
29% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
109 |
14 |
13% |
-- |
-- |
89 |
82% |
*Outside of Anesthesiology training programs, the most common specialties where Anesthesiology applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, General Surgery, and Family Medicine. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Anesthesiology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Anesthesiology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Anesthesiology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Dermatology (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 211 non-U.S. IMG applicants who applied to the Dermatology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Dermatology applicants |
Entered training in Dermatology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 214 |
71 |
-- |
-- |
12 |
17% |
57 |
80% |
Score 215-237 |
72 |
14 |
19% |
24 |
33% |
34 |
47% |
Score ≥ 238 |
68 |
10 |
15% |
40 |
59% |
18 |
26% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
24 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
20 |
83% |
*Outside of Dermatology training programs, the most common specialties where Dermatology applicants entered training were Internal Medicine and General Surgery. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Dermatology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Dermatology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered training in another specialty increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
.
Diagnostic Radiology (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 1,028 non-U.S. IMG applicants who applied to the Diagnostic Radiology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Diagnostic Radiology applicants (total number = 1,028) |
Entered training in Diagnostic Radiology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 218 |
343 |
31 |
9% |
75 |
22% |
237 |
69% |
Score 219-238 |
352 |
87 |
25% |
96 |
27% |
169 |
48% |
Score ≥ 239 |
333 |
134 |
40% |
98 |
29% |
101 |
30% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
75 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
60 |
80% |
*Outside of Diagnostic Radiology training programs, the most common specialties where Diagnostic Radiology applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, General Surgery, and Neurology. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Diagnostic Radiology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Diagnostic Radiology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Diagnostic Radiology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Emergency Medicine (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 915 non-U.S. IMG applicants who applied to the Emergency Medicine training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Emergency Medicine applicants (total number = 915) |
Entered training in Emergency Medicine |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 211 |
312 |
23 |
7% |
32 |
10% |
257 |
82% |
Score 212-231 |
309 |
33 |
11% |
85 |
28% |
191 |
62% |
Score ≥ 232 |
294 |
55 |
19% |
131 |
45% |
108 |
37% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
77 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
73 |
95% |
*Outside of Emergency Medicine training programs, the most common specialties where Emergency Medicine applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and General Surgery. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Emergency Medicine and the percentage of applicants who entered in Emergency Medicine by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Emergency Medicine training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Family Medicine (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 9,184 non-U.S. IMG applicants who applied to the Family Medicine training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Family Medicine applicants (total number = 9,184) |
Entered training in Family Medicine |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 209 |
3,209 |
297 |
9% |
452 |
14% |
2,460 |
77% |
Score 210-225 |
2,968 |
409 |
14% |
736 |
25% |
1,823 |
61% |
Score ≥ 226 |
3,007 |
469 |
16% |
1,156 |
38% |
1,382 |
46% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
994 |
59 |
6% |
92 |
9% |
843 |
85% |
*Outside of Family Medicine training programs, the most common specialties where Family Medicine applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, and Psychiatry. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Family Medicine and the percentage of applicants who entered in Family Medicine by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Family Medicine training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
General Surgery (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 4,161 non-U.S. IMG applicants who applied to the General Surgery training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam. These data include applicants who applied to, and entered, training in preliminary and categorical positions.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
General Surgery applicants (total number = 4,161) |
Entered training in General Surgery |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 215 |
1,392 |
104 |
7% |
167 |
12% |
1,121 |
81% |
Score 216-234 |
1,398 |
216 |
15% |
309 |
22% |
873 |
62% |
Score ≥ 235 |
1,371 |
438 |
32% |
432 |
32% |
501 |
37% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
321 |
14 |
4% |
27 |
8% |
280 |
87% |
*Outside of General Surgery training programs, the most common specialties where General Surgery applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Anesthesiology, and Diagnostic Radiology. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in General Surgery and the percentage of applicants who entered in General Surgery by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered General Surgery training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Internal Medicine (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 17,656 non-U.S. IMG applicants who applied to the Internal Medicine training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam. These data include applicants who applied to, and entered, training in preliminary and categorical positions.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Internal Medicine applicants (total number = 17,656) |
Entered training in Internal Medicine |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 219 |
6,131 |
1,215 |
20% |
775 |
13% |
4,141 |
68% |
Score 220-236 |
5,659 |
2,526 |
45% |
772 |
14% |
2,363 |
42% |
Score ≥ 237 |
5,866 |
4,005 |
68% |
604 |
10% |
1,258 |
21% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
1,012 |
86 |
8% |
95 |
9% |
831 |
82% |
*Outside of Internal Medicine training programs, the most common specialties where Internal Medicine applicants entered training were Family Medicine, Pediatrics, and Neurology. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Internal Medicine and the percentage of applicants who entered in Internal Medicine by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Internal Medicine training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Internal Medicine - Pediatrics (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 1,407 non-U.S. IMG applicants who applied to the Internal Medicine - Pediatrics training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Internal Medicine - Pediatrics applicants (total number = 1,407) |
Entered training in Internal Medicine - Pediatrics |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 215 |
473 |
-- |
-- |
87 |
18% |
379 |
80% |
Score 216-230 |
487 |
-- |
-- |
165 |
34% |
314 |
64% |
Score ≥ 231 |
447 |
16 |
4% |
234 |
52% |
197 |
44% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
90 |
-- |
-- |
10 |
11% |
79 |
88% |
*Outside of Internal Medicine - Pediatrics training programs, the most common specialties where Internal Medicine - Pediatrics applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, and Family Medicine. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
Because the number of applicants who entered training in this specialty was less than 10 for multiple Step 1 score terciles, we are not able to report the exact percentages or trends for specialty entrance rates for those terciles.
Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
Neurology (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 2,071 non-U.S. IMG applicants who applied to the Neurology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Neurology applicants (total number = 2,071) |
Entered training in Neurology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 218 |
727 |
131 |
18% |
126 |
17% |
470 |
65% |
Score 219-234 |
657 |
160 |
24% |
191 |
29% |
306 |
47% |
Score ≥ 235 |
687 |
296 |
43% |
201 |
29% |
191 |
28% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
110 |
14 |
13% |
13 |
12% |
83 |
75% |
*Outside of Neurology training programs, the most common specialties where Neurology applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, and Pediatrics. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Neurology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Neurology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Neurology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Obstetrics and Gynecology (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 1,062 non-U.S. IMG applicants who applied to the Obstetrics and Gynecology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam |
Obstetrics and Gynecology |
Entered training in |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 211 |
369 |
37 |
10% |
58 |
16% |
274 |
74% |
Score 212-228 |
350 |
68 |
19% |
80 |
23% |
202 |
58% |
Score ≥ 229 |
343 |
110 |
32% |
115 |
34% |
118 |
34% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
104 |
-- |
-- |
11 |
11% |
90 |
87% |
*Outside of Obstetrics and Gynecology training programs, the most common specialties where Obstetrics and Gynecology applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and General Surgery or Pediatrics (tied). The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Obstetrics and Gynecology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Obstetrics and Gynecology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Obstetrics and Gynecology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Orthopedic Surgery (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 258 non-U.S. IMG applicants who applied to the Orthopedic Surgery training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam |
Orthopedic Surgery |
Entered training in Orthopedic Surgery |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 218 |
86 |
-- |
-- |
10 |
12% |
74 |
86% |
Score 219-235 |
87 |
-- |
-- |
13 |
15% |
70 |
80% |
Score ≥ 236 |
85 |
-- |
-- |
36 |
42% |
40 |
47% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
19 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
19 |
100% |
*Outside of Orthopedic Surgery training programs, the most common specialty where Orthopedic Surgery applicants entered training was General Surgery. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
Because the number of applicants who entered training in this specialty was less than 10 for multiple Step 1 score terciles, we are not able to report the exact percentages or trends for specialty entrance rates for those terciles.
Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
Otolaryngology (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 142 non-U.S. IMG applicants who applied to the Otolaryngology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Otolaryngology applicants (total number = 142) |
Entered training in |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 220 |
48 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
38 |
79% |
Score 221-235 |
50 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
37 |
74% |
Score ≥ 236 |
44 |
-- |
-- |
22 |
50% |
18 |
41% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
*Outside of Otolaryngology training programs, the most common specialty where Otolaryngology applicants entered training was General Surgery. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
Because the number of applicants who entered training in this specialty was less than 10 for multiple Step 1 score terciles, we are not able to report the exact percentages or trends for specialty entrance rates for those terciles.
Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
Pathology (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 1,733 non-U.S. IMG applicants who applied to the Pathology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam |
Pathology applicants (total number = 1,733) |
Entered training in |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 212 |
587 |
93 |
16% |
46 |
8% |
454 |
77% |
Score 213-230 |
593 |
159 |
27% |
59 |
10% |
384 |
65% |
Score ≥ 231 |
553 |
230 |
42% |
91 |
16% |
218 |
39% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
152 |
14 |
9% |
11 |
7% |
129 |
85% |
*Outside of Pathology training programs, the most common specialties where Pathology applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, and Family Medicine. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Pathology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Pathology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Pathology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Pediatrics (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 5,105 non-U.S. IMG applicants who applied to the Pediatrics training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Pediatrics applicants |
Entered training |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 212 |
1,726 |
266 |
15% |
259 |
15% |
1,201 |
70% |
Score 213-229 |
1,757 |
461 |
26% |
377 |
21% |
919 |
52% |
Score ≥ 230 |
1,622 |
669 |
41% |
463 |
29% |
490 |
30% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
392 |
27 |
7% |
48 |
12% |
317 |
81% |
*Outside of Pediatrics training programs, the most common specialties where Pediatrics applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Psychiatry. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding.
|
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Pediatrics and the percentage of applicants who entered in Pediatrics by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Pediatrics training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Plastic Surgery - Integrated (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 141 non-U.S. IMG applicants who applied to the Integrated Plastic Surgery training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Plastic Surgery applicants (total number = 141) |
Entered training in Plastic Surgery |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 219 |
48 |
-- |
-- |
14 |
29% |
28 |
58% |
Score 220-237 |
47 |
-- |
-- |
11 |
23% |
31 |
66% |
Score ≥ 238 |
46 |
-- |
-- |
27 |
59% |
16 |
35% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
10 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
*Outside of Integrated Plastic Surgery training programs, the most common specialty where Integrated Plastic Surgery applicants entered training was General Surgery. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
Because the number of applicants who entered training in this specialty was less than 10 for multiple Step 1 score terciles, we are not able to report the exact percentages or trends for specialty entrance rates for those terciles.
Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
Psychiatry (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 2,688 non-U.S. IMG applicants who applied to the Psychiatry training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Psychiatry applicants |
Entered training in |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 205 |
929 |
121 |
13% |
101 |
11% |
707 |
76% |
Score 206-221 |
868 |
181 |
21% |
132 |
15% |
555 |
64% |
Score ≥ 222 |
891 |
233 |
26% |
194 |
22% |
464 |
52% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
395 |
32 |
8% |
29 |
7% |
334 |
85% |
*Outside of Psychiatry training programs, the most common specialties where Psychiatry applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Neurology or Pediatrics (tied). The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Psychiatry and the percentage of applicants who entered in Psychiatry by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Psychiatry training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Radiation Oncology (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 99 non-U.S. IMG applicants who applied to the Radiation Oncology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Radiation Oncology applicants (total number = 99) |
Entered training in Radiation Oncology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 212 |
35 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
30 |
86% |
Score 213-230 |
32 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
26 |
81% |
Score ≥ 231 |
32 |
-- |
-- |
14 |
44% |
14 |
44% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
*Outside of Radiation Oncology training programs, the most common specialty where Radiation Oncology applicants entered training was Internal Medicine. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
Because the number of applicants who entered training in this specialty was less than 10 for multiple Step 1 score terciles, we are not able to report the exact percentages or trends for specialty entrance rates for those terciles.
Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
Urology (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 107 non-U.S. IMG applicants who applied to the Urology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Urology applicants (total number = 107) |
Entered training in Urology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 217 |
36 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
28 |
78% |
Score 218-236 |
35 |
-- |
-- |
10 |
29% |
25 |
71% |
Score ≥ 237 |
36 |
-- |
-- |
15 |
42% |
12 |
33% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
*Outside of Urology training programs, the most common specialty where Urology applicants entered training was Internal Medicine. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percent of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
Because the number of applicants who entered training in this specialty was less than 10 for multiple Step 1 score terciles, we are not able to report the exact percentages or trends for specialty entrance rates for those terciles.
Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
Vascular Surgery - Integrated (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 195 non-U.S. IMG applicants who applied to the Integrated Vascular Surgery training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Integrated Vascular Surgery (total number = 195) |
Entered training in Integrated Vascular Surgery |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 216 |
66 |
-- |
-- |
15 |
23% |
51 |
77% |
Score 217-235 |
67 |
-- |
-- |
21 |
31% |
41 |
61% |
Score ≥ 236 |
62 |
-- |
-- |
31 |
50% |
25 |
40% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
11 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
10 |
91% |
*Outside of Integrated Vascular Surgery training programs, the most common specialty where Integrated Vascular Surgery applicants entered training was General Surgery. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percent of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
Because the number of applicants who entered training in this specialty was less than 10 for multiple Step 1 score terciles, we are not able to report the exact percentages or trends for specialty entrance rates for those terciles.
Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
Anesthesiology (U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 2,339 U.S.-IMG applicants who applied to the Anesthesiology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Anesthesiology applicants (total number = 2,339) |
Entered training in Anesthesiology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 207 |
804 |
45 |
6% |
164 |
20% |
595 |
74% |
Score 208-228 |
757 |
168 |
22% |
267 |
35% |
322 |
43% |
Score ≥ 229 |
778 |
418 |
54% |
218 |
28% |
142 |
18% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
401 |
-- |
-- |
63 |
16% |
329 |
82% |
*Outside of Anesthesiology training programs, the most common specialties where Anesthesiology applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and General Surgery. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Anesthesiology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Anesthesiology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Anesthesiology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Dermatology (U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 350 U.S.-IMG applicants who applied to the Dermatology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Dermatology applicants (total number = 350) |
Entered training in Dermatology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 205 |
119 |
-- |
-- |
24 |
20% |
88 |
74% |
Score 206-228 |
117 |
-- |
-- |
53 |
45% |
55 |
47% |
Score ≥ 229 |
114 |
22 |
19% |
57 |
50% |
35 |
31% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
63 |
-- |
-- |
17 |
27% |
43 |
68% |
*Outside of Dermatology training programs, the most common specialties where Dermatology applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, General Surgery, and Diagnostic Radiology. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
Because the number of applicants who entered training in this specialty was less than 10 for multiple Step 1 score terciles, we are not able to report the exact percentages or trends for specialty entrance rates for those terciles.
Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
Diagnostic Radiology (U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 1,550 U.S.-IMG applicants who applied to the Diagnostic Radiology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Diagnostic Radiology applicants (total number = 1,550) |
Entered training in Diagnostic Radiology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 211 |
535 |
43 |
8% |
133 |
25% |
359 |
67% |
Score 212-233 |
516 |
121 |
23% |
196 |
38% |
199 |
39% |
Score ≥ 234 |
499 |
269 |
54% |
149 |
30% |
81 |
16% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
235 |
-- |
-- |
46 |
20% |
181 |
77% |
*Outside of Diagnostic Radiology training programs, the most common specialties where Diagnostic Radiology applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, General Surgery, and Family Medicine. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Diagnostic Radiology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Diagnostic Radiology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Diagnostic Radiology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Emergency Medicine (U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 2,333 U.S.-IMG applicants who applied to the Emergency Medicine training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Emergency Medicine applicants (total number = 2,333) |
Entered training in Emergency Medicine |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 207 |
802 |
46 |
6% |
217 |
27% |
539 |
67% |
Score 208-227 |
775 |
121 |
16% |
376 |
49% |
278 |
36% |
Score ≥ 228 |
756 |
285 |
38% |
362 |
48% |
109 |
14% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
382 |
11 |
3% |
71 |
19% |
300 |
79% |
*Outside of Emergency Medicine training programs, the most common specialties where Emergency Medicine applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and General Surgery. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Emergency Medicine and the percentage of applicants who entered in Emergency Medicine by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Emergency Medicine training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Family Medicine (U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 18,614 U.S.-IMG applicants who applied to the Family Medicine training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Family Medicine applicants (total number = 18,614) |
Entered training in Family Medicine |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 199 |
6,360 |
940 |
15% |
772 |
12% |
4,648 |
73% |
Score 200-214 |
6,323 |
1,651 |
26% |
1,461 |
23% |
3,211 |
51% |
Score ≥ 215 |
5,931 |
1,363 |
23% |
2,484 |
42% |
2,084 |
35% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
4,719 |
525 |
11% |
466 |
10% |
3,728 |
79% |
*Outside of Family Medicine training programs, the most common specialties where Family Medicine applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, and Pediatrics. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Family Medicine and the percentage of applicants who entered in Family Medicine by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Family Medicine training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
General Surgery (U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 6,444 U.S.-IMG applicants who applied to the General Surgery training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam. These data include applicants who applied to, and entered, training in preliminary and categorical positions.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
General Surgery applicants (total number = 6,444) |
Entered training in General Surgery |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 203 |
2,188 |
84 |
4% |
266 |
12% |
1,838 |
84% |
Score 204-224 |
2,187 |
283 |
13% |
596 |
27% |
1,308 |
60% |
Score ≥ 225 |
2,069 |
637 |
31% |
847 |
41% |
585 |
28% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
1,400 |
46 |
3% |
135 |
10% |
1,219 |
87% |
*Outside of General Surgery training programs, the most common specialties where General Surgery applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Anesthesiology. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in General Surgery and the percentage of applicants who entered in General Surgery by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered General Surgery training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Internal Medicine (U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 22,279 U.S.-IMG applicants who applied to the Internal Medicine training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam. These data include applicants who applied to, and entered, training in preliminary and categorical positions.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Internal Medicine applicants (total number = 22,279) |
Entered training in Internal Medicine |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 204 |
7,422 |
927 |
12% |
1,260 |
17% |
5,235 |
71% |
Score 205-223 |
7,454 |
2,539 |
34% |
1,644 |
22% |
3,271 |
44% |
Score ≥ 224 |
7,403 |
4,571 |
62% |
1,341 |
18% |
1,491 |
20% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
4,167 |
372 |
9% |
520 |
12% |
3,275 |
79% |
*Outside of Internal Medicine training programs, the most common specialties where Internal Medicine applicants entered training were Family Medicine, Psychiatry, and Anesthesiology. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Internal Medicine and the percentage of applicants who entered in Internal Medicine by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Internal Medicine training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Internal Medicine - Pediatrics (U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 1,381 U.S.-IMG applicants who applied to the Internal Medicine - Pediatrics training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Internal Medicine - Pediatrics applicants (total number = 1,381) |
Entered training in Internal Medicine - Pediatrics |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 203 |
489 |
-- |
-- |
109 |
22% |
377 |
77% |
Score 204-218 |
435 |
32 |
7% |
170 |
39% |
233 |
54% |
Score ≥ 219 |
457 |
80 |
18% |
222 |
49% |
155 |
34% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
296 |
-- |
-- |
56 |
19% |
237 |
80% |
*Outside of Internal Medicine - Pediatrics training programs, the most common specialties where Internal Medicine - Pediatrics applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, and Family Medicine. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Internal Medicine - Pediatrics and the percentage of applicants who entered in Internal Medicine - Pediatrics by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Internal Medicine - Pediatrics training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Neurology (U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 1,992 U.S.-IMG applicants who applied to the Neurology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Neurology applicants (total number = 1,992) |
Entered training in Neurology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 202 |
684 |
63 |
9% |
117 |
17% |
504 |
74% |
Score 203-221 |
649 |
124 |
19% |
217 |
33% |
308 |
47% |
Score ≥ 222 |
659 |
232 |
35% |
226 |
34% |
201 |
31% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
443 |
35 |
8% |
65 |
15% |
343 |
77% |
*Outside of Neurology training programs, the most common specialties where Neurology applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Psychiatry. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Neurology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Neurology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Neurology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Obstetrics and Gynecology (U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 2,251 U.S.-IMG applicants who applied to the Obstetrics and Gynecology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Obstetrics and Gynecology applicants (total number = 2,251) |
Entered training in Obstetrics and Gynecology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 202 |
761 |
35 |
5% |
155 |
20% |
571 |
75% |
Score 203-220 |
774 |
134 |
17% |
272 |
35% |
368 |
48% |
Score ≥ 221 |
716 |
299 |
42% |
271 |
38% |
146 |
20% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
507 |
14 |
3% |
73 |
14% |
420 |
83% |
*Outside of Obstetrics and Gynecology training programs, the most common specialties where Obstetrics and Gynecology applicants entered training were Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, and General Surgery. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Obstetrics and Gynecology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Obstetrics and Gynecology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Obstetrics and Gynecology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Orthopedic Surgery (U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 436 U.S.-IMG applicants who applied to the Orthopedic Surgery training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Orthopedic Surgery applicants (total number = 436) |
Entered training in Orthopedic Surgery |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 215 |
151 |
-- |
-- |
52 |
34% |
93 |
62% |
Score 216-237 |
143 |
19 |
13% |
73 |
51% |
51 |
36% |
Score ≥ 238 |
142 |
25 |
18% |
82 |
58% |
35 |
25% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
45 |
-- |
-- |
10 |
22% |
35 |
78% |
*Outside of Orthopedic Surgery training programs, the most common specialties where Orthopedic Surgery applicants entered training were General Surgery or Internal Medicine (tied), followed by Anesthesiology. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Orthopedic Surgery and the percentage of applicants who entered in Orthopedic Surgery by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Orthopedic Surgery training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Otolaryngology (Non-U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 205 U.S.-IMG applicants who applied to the Otolaryngology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Otolaryngology applicants (total number = 205) |
Entered training in Otolaryngology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 211 |
68 |
-- |
-- |
14 |
21% |
53 |
78% |
Score 221-228 |
69 |
-- |
-- |
32 |
46% |
35 |
51% |
Score ≥ 229 |
68 |
-- |
-- |
34 |
50% |
28 |
41% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
27 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
22 |
81% |
*Outside of Otolaryngology training programs, the most common specialties where Otolaryngology applicants entered training were General Surgery and Internal Medicine. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
Because the number of applicants who entered training in this specialty was less than 10 for multiple Step 1 score terciles, we are not able to report the exact percentages or trends for specialty entrance rates for those terciles.
Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
Pathology (U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 2,899 U.S.-IMG applicants who applied to the Pathology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Pathology applicants (total number = 2,899) |
Entered training in Pathology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 201 |
1,005 |
70 |
7% |
74 |
7% |
867 |
86% |
Score 202-220 |
959 |
176 |
18% |
134 |
14% |
663 |
69% |
Score ≥ 221 |
935 |
374 |
40% |
193 |
21% |
347 |
37% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
711 |
29 |
4% |
48 |
7% |
634 |
89% |
*Outside of Pathology training programs, the most common specialties where Pathology applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Psychiatry. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Pathology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Pathology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Pathology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Pediatrics (U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 6,528 U.S.-IMG applicants who applied to the Pediatrics training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Pediatrics applicants (total number = 6,528) |
Entered training in Pediatrics |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 201 |
2,267 |
192 |
8% |
431 |
19% |
1,644 |
73% |
Score 202-217 |
2,148 |
470 |
22% |
565 |
26% |
1,113 |
52% |
Score ≥ 218 |
2,113 |
870 |
41% |
649 |
31% |
594 |
28% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
1,575 |
75 |
5% |
255 |
16% |
1,245 |
79% |
*Outside of Pediatrics training programs, the most common specialties where Pediatrics applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Psychiatry. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Pediatrics and the percentage of applicants who entered in Pediatrics by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Pediatrics training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Plastic Surgery - Integrated (U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 177 U.S.-IMG applicants who applied to the Integrated Plastic Surgery training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Integrated Plastic Surgery applicants (total number = 177) |
Entered training in Integrated Plastic Surgery |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 214 |
61 |
-- |
-- |
26 |
43% |
33 |
54% |
Score 215-234 |
61 |
-- |
-- |
36 |
59% |
22 |
36% |
Score ≥ 235 |
55 |
-- |
-- |
27 |
49% |
23 |
42% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
15 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
11 |
73% |
*Outside of Integrated Plastic Surgery training programs, the most common specialty where Integrated Plastic Surgery applicants entered training was was General Surgery. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
Because the number of applicants who entered training in this specialty was less than 10 for multiple Step 1 score terciles, we are not able to report the exact percentages or trends for specialty entrance rates for those terciles.
Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
Psychiatry (U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 6,362 U.S.-IMG applicants who applied to the Psychiatry training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Psychiatry applicants (total number = 6,362) |
Entered training in Psychiatry |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 196 |
2,230 |
304 |
14% |
212 |
10% |
1,714 |
77% |
Score 197-210 |
2,103 |
398 |
19% |
354 |
17% |
1,351 |
64% |
Score ≥ 211 |
2,029 |
573 |
28% |
500 |
25% |
956 |
47% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
2,176 |
250 |
11% |
186 |
9% |
1,740 |
80% |
*Outside of Psychiatry training programs, the most common specialties where Psychiatry applicants entered training were Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, and Pediatrics. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Psychiatry and the percentage of applicants who entered in Psychiatry by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Psychiatry training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Radiation Oncology (U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 159 U.S.-IMG applicants who applied to the Radiation Oncology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Radiation Oncology applicants (total number = 159) |
Entered training in Radiation Oncology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 207 |
56 |
-- |
-- |
17 |
30% |
37 |
66% |
Score 208-229 |
50 |
-- |
-- |
21 |
42% |
28 |
56% |
Score ≥ 230 |
53 |
-- |
-- |
33 |
62% |
13 |
25% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
23 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
15 |
65% |
*Outside of Radiation Oncology training programs, the most common specialties where Radiation Oncology applicants entered training were Internal Medicine and Diagnostic Radiology. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
Because the number of applicants who entered training in this specialty was less than 10 for multiple Step 1 score terciles, we are not able to report the exact percentages or trends for specialty entrance rates for those terciles.
Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
Urology (U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 115 U.S.-IMG applicants who applied to the Urology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Urology applicants (total number = 115) |
Entered training in Urology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 212 |
38 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
26 |
68% |
Score 213-233 |
39 |
-- |
-- |
19 |
49% |
13 |
33% |
Score ≥ 234 |
38 |
-- |
-- |
21 |
55% |
-- |
-- |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
18 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
16 |
89% |
*Outside of Urology training programs, the most common specialty where Urology applicants entered training was Internal Medicine. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
Because the number of applicants who entered training in this specialty was less than 10 for multiple Step 1 score terciles, we are not able to report the exact percentages or trends for specialty entrance rates for those terciles.
Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
Vascular Surgery - Integrated (U.S. IMG)
The study included data from 238 U.S.-IMG applicants who applied to the Integrated Vascular Surgery training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Integrated Vascular Surgery applicants (total number = 238) |
Entered training in Integrated Vascular Surgery |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 211 |
80 |
-- |
-- |
15 |
19% |
65 |
81% |
Score 212-227 |
78 |
-- |
-- |
42 |
54% |
32 |
41% |
Score ≥ 228 |
80 |
-- |
-- |
48 |
60% |
27 |
34% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
35 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
30 |
86% |
*Outside of Integrated Vascular Surgery training programs, the most common specialties where Integrated Vascular Surgery applicants entered training were General Surgery and Internal Medicine. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. **Applicants who received a passing score on a subsequent attempt are reflected — with that subsequent score — in the terciles above. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
Because the number of applicants who entered training in this specialty was less than 10 for multiple Step 1 score terciles, we are not able to report the exact percentages or trends for specialty entrance rates for those terciles.
Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
Anesthesiology (U.S. MD)
The study included data from 7,817 U.S.-MD applicants who applied to the Anesthesiology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Anesthesiology applicants (total number = 7,817) |
Entered training in Anesthesiology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 221 |
2,726 |
1,684 |
62% |
612 |
22% |
430 |
16% |
Score 222-237 |
2,578 |
2,135 |
83% |
321 |
12% |
122 |
5% |
Score ≥ 238 |
2,513 |
2,019 |
80% |
381 |
15% |
113 |
4% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
273 |
76 |
28% |
94 |
34% |
103 |
38% |
*Outside of Anesthesiology training programs, the most common specialties where Anesthesiology applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, General Surgery, and Diagnostic Radiology. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Anesthesiology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Anesthesiology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Anesthesiology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering an Anesthesiology residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering an Anesthesiology residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 238 (yellow line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (19 applications; confidence band of 17 to 20) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores < 238. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 87%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 222 to 237 (gray line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (22 applications; confidence band of 20 to 23) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 221. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 86%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 221 (purple line) submitted the highest number of applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (30 applications; confidence band of 28 to 32). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 76%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Dermatology (U.S. MD)
The study included data from 2,970 U.S.-MD applicants who applied to the Dermatology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Dermatology applicants (total number = 2,970) |
Entered training in Dermatology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 238 |
1,029 |
486 |
47% |
366 |
36% |
177 |
17% |
Score 239-251 |
1,029 |
740 |
72% |
241 |
23% |
48 |
5% |
Score ≥ 252 |
912 |
742 |
81% |
144 |
16% |
26 |
3% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
51 |
-- |
-- |
19 |
37% |
27 |
53% |
*Outside of Dermatology training programs, the most common specialties where Dermatology applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Diagnostic Radiology, and Anesthesiology. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Dermatology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Dermatology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Dermatology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering a Dermatology residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering a Dermatology residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 252 (yellow line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (37 applications; confidence band of 32 to 42) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores < 252. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 82%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 239 to 251 (gray line) submitted more applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (42 applications; confidence band of 35 to 48) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 252. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 75%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 238 (purple line) submitted the highest number of applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (62 applications; confidence band of 52 to 72). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 69%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Diagnostic Radiology (U.S. MD)
The study included data from 5,621 U.S.-MD applicants who applied to the Diagnostic Radiology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Diagnostic Radiology applicants (total number = 5,621) |
Entered training in Diagnostic Radiology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 229 |
1,920 |
1,044 |
54% |
504 |
26% |
372 |
19% |
Score 230-245 |
1,951 |
1,494 |
77% |
364 |
19% |
93 |
5% |
Score ≥ 246 |
1,750 |
1,425 |
81% |
271 |
15% |
54 |
3% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
148 |
26 |
18% |
59 |
40% |
63 |
43% |
*Outside of Diagnostic Radiology training programs, the most common specialties where Diagnostic Radiology applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, General Surgery, and Anesthesiology. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Diagnostic Radiology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Diagnostic Radiology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Diagnostic Radiology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering a Diagnostic Radiology residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering a Diagnostic Radiology residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 246 (yellow line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (21 applications; confidence band of 19 to 24) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 229. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 84%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 230 to 245 (gray line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (24 applications; confidence band of 19 to 29) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 229. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 72%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 229 (purple line) submitted the highest number of applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (37 applications; confidence band of 34 to 41). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 71%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Emergency Medicine (U.S. MD)
The study included data from 11,410 U.S.-MD applicants who applied to the Emergency Medicine training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Emergency Medicine applicants (total number = 11,410) |
Entered training in Emergency Medicine |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 222 |
4,021 |
2,787 |
69% |
792 |
20% |
442 |
11% |
Score 223-237 |
3,607 |
3,148 |
87% |
336 |
9% |
123 |
3% |
Score ≥ 238 |
3,782 |
3,337 |
88% |
352 |
9% |
93 |
2% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
328 |
93 |
28% |
127 |
39% |
108 |
33% |
*Outside of Emergency Medicine training programs, the most common specialties where Emergency Medicine applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and General Surgery. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Emergency Medicine and the percentage of applicants who entered in Emergency Medicine by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Emergency Medicine training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering an Emergency Medicine residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering an Emergency Medicine residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
The point of diminishing returns for applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 238 could not be estimated because of the instability of the data for applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores in this range.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 223 to 237 (gray line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (24 applications; confidence band of 22 to 25) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 222. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 85%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 222 (purple line) submitted the highest number of applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (33 applications; confidence band of 30 to 35). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 73%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Family Medicine (U.S. MD)
The study included data from 13,867 U.S.-MD applicants who applied to the Family Medicine training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Family Medicine applicants (total number = 13,867) |
Entered training in Family Medicine |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 206 |
4,860 |
2,876 |
59% |
843 |
17% |
1,141 |
23% |
Score 207-223 |
4,562 |
3,258 |
71% |
810 |
18% |
494 |
11% |
Score ≥ 224 |
4,445 |
3,419 |
77% |
702 |
16% |
324 |
7% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
1,923 |
996 |
52% |
323 |
17% |
604 |
31% |
*Outside of Family Medicine training programs, the most common specialties where Family Medicine applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Emergency Medicine, and Pediatrics. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Family Medicine and the percentage of applicants who entered in Family Medicine by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Family Medicine training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering a Family Medicine residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering a Family Medicine residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 224 (yellow line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (16 applications; confidence band of 15 to 16) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores < 224. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 85%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 207 to 223 (gray line) submitted more applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (18 applications; confidence band of 17 to 19) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 224. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 80%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 206 (purple line) submitted the highest number of applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (21 applications; confidence band of 20 to 23). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 65%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
General Surgery (U.S. MD)
The study included data from 15,318 U.S.-MD applicants who applied to the General Surgery training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam. These data include applicants who applied to, and entered, training in preliminary and categorical positions.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
General Surgery applicants (total number = 15,318) |
Entered training in General Surgery |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 222 |
5,236 |
2,631 |
50% |
1,605 |
31% |
1,000 |
19% |
Score 223-239 |
5,051 |
3,222 |
64% |
1,472 |
29% |
357 |
7% |
Score ≥ 240 |
5,031 |
3,002 |
60% |
1,737 |
35% |
292 |
6% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
560 |
145 |
26% |
173 |
31% |
242 |
43% |
*Outside of General Surgery training programs, the most common specialties where General Surgery applicants entered training were Anesthesiology, Internal Medicine, and Diagnostic Radiology. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in General Surgery and the percentage of applicants who entered in General Surgery by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered General Surgery training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering a General Surgery residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering a General Surgery residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 240 (yellow line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (38 applications; confidence band of 35 to 40) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores < 240. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 82%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 223 to 239 (gray line) submitted more applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (39 applications; confidence band of 37 to 42) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 240. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 79%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 222 (purple line) submitted the highest number of applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (51 applications; confidence band of 48 to 54). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 69%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Internal Medicine (U.S. MD)
The study included data from 28,144 U.S.-MD applicants who applied to the Internal Medicine training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam. These data include applicants who applied to, and entered, training in preliminary and categorical positions.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Internal Medicine applicants (total number = 28,144) |
Entered training in Internal Medicine |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 220 |
9,661 |
6,475 |
67% |
1,701 |
18% |
1,485 |
15% |
Score 221-239 |
9,407 |
7,726 |
82% |
1,128 |
12% |
553 |
6% |
Score ≥ 240 |
9,076 |
7,515 |
83% |
887 |
10% |
674 |
7% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
1,443 |
642 |
44% |
310 |
21% |
491 |
34% |
*Outside of Internal Medicine training programs, the most common specialties where Internal Medicine applicants entered training were Family Medicine, Anesthesiology, and Emergency Medicine or General Surgery (tied). The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Internal Medicine and the percentage of applicants who entered in Internal Medicine by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Internal Medicine training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering an Internal Medicine residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering an Internal Medicine residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 240 (yellow line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (15 applications; confidence band of 14 to 16) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores < 240. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 79%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 221 to 239 (gray line) submitted more applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (22 applications; confidence band of 21 to 23) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 240. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 83%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 220 (purple line) submitted the highest number of applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (31 applications; confidence band of 30 to 33). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 81%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Internal Medicine - Pediatrics (U.S. MD)
The study included data from 2,631 U.S.-MD applicants who applied to the Internal Medicine - Pediatrics training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Internal Medicine - Pediatrics applicants (total number = 2,631) |
Entered training in Internal Medicine - Pediatrics |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 221 |
898 |
457 |
51% |
276 |
31% |
165 |
18% |
Score 228-238 |
856 |
669 |
78% |
170 |
20% |
17 |
2% |
Score ≥ 239 |
877 |
722 |
82% |
132 |
15% |
23 |
3% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
148 |
22 |
15% |
53 |
36% |
73 |
49% |
*Outside of Internal Medicine - Pediatrics training programs, the most common specialties where Internal Medicine - Pediatrics applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, and Family Medicine. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Internal Medicine - Pediatrics and the percentage of applicants who entered in Internal Medicine - Pediatrics by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Internal Medicine - Pediatrics training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering an Internal Medicine - Pediatrics residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering an Internal Medicine - Pediatrics residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 239 (yellow line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (15 applications; confidence band of 13 to 17) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores < 239. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 82%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 222 to 238 (gray line) submitted more applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (18 applications; confidence band of 14 to 22) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 239. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 75%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
The point of diminishing returns for applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 221 could not be estimated because of the instability of the data for applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores in this range.
Neurology (U.S. MD)
The study included data from 2,701 U.S.-MD applicants who applied to the Neurology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Neurology applicants (total number = 2,701) |
Entered training in Neurology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 218 |
930 |
589 |
63% |
183 |
20% |
158 |
17% |
Score 219-236 |
877 |
726 |
83% |
105 |
12% |
46 |
5% |
Score ≥ 237 |
894 |
746 |
83% |
120 |
13% |
28 |
3% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
137 |
41 |
30% |
39 |
28% |
57 |
42% |
*Outside of Neurology training programs, the most common specialties where Neurology applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Psychiatry. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Neurology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Neurology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Neurology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering a Neurology residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering a Neurology residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 237 (yellow line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (11 applications; confidence band of 9 to 12) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores < 237. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 82%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 219 to 236 (gray line) submitted more applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (15 applications; confidence band of 13 to 17) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 237. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 81%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 218 (purple line) submitted the highest number of applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (18 applications; confidence band of 16 to 20). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 81%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Obstetrics and Gynecology (U.S. MD)
The study included data from 7,316 U.S.-MD applicants who applied to the Obstetrics and Gynecology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Obstetrics and Gynecology applicants (total number = 7,316) |
Entered training in Obstetrics and Gynecology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 216 |
2,483 |
1,753 |
71% |
462 |
19% |
268 |
11% |
Score 217-233 |
2,444 |
2,151 |
88% |
204 |
8% |
89 |
4% |
Score ≥ 234 |
2,389 |
2,178 |
91% |
148 |
6% |
63 |
3% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
298 |
113 |
38% |
99 |
33% |
86 |
29% |
*Outside of Obstetrics and Gynecology training programs, the most common specialties where Obstetrics and Gynecology applicants entered training were Family Medicine, General Surgery, and Internal Medicine. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Obstetrics and Gynecology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Obstetrics and Gynecology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Obstetrics and Gynecology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering an Obstetrics and Gynecology residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering an Obstetrics and Gynecology residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 234 (yellow line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (18 applications; confidence band of 16 to 20) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 216. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 82%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 217 to 233 (gray line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (18 applications; confidence band of 15 to 22) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 216. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 78%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 216 (purple line) submitted the highest number of applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (33 applications; confidence band of 27 to 39). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 80%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Orthopedic Surgery (U.S. MD)
The study included data from 5,580 U.S.-MD applicants who applied to the Orthopedic Surgery training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Orthopedic Surgery (total number = 5,580) |
Entered training in Orthopedic Surgery |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 237 |
1,910 |
1,045 |
55% |
609 |
32% |
256 |
13% |
Score 238-249 |
1,851 |
1,453 |
78% |
291 |
16% |
107 |
6% |
Score ≥ 250 |
1,819 |
1,605 |
88% |
141 |
8% |
73 |
4% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
43 |
-- |
-- |
18 |
42% |
20 |
47% |
*Outside of Orthopedic Surgery training programs, the most common specialties where Orthopedic Surgery applicants entered training were General Surgery, Anesthesiology, and Diagnostic Radiology. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Orthopedic Surgery and the percentage of applicants who entered in Orthopedic Surgery by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Orthopedic Surgery training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering an Orthopedic Surgery residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering an Orthopedic Surgery residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 250 (yellow line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (39 applications; confidence band of 32 to 45) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 237. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 81%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 238 to 249 (gray line) submitted the fewest number of applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (38 applications; confidence band of 31 to 44). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 84%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 237 (purple line) submitted the highest number of applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (65 applications; confidence band of 53 to 77). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 66%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Otolaryngology (U.S. MD)
The study included data from 2,548 U.S.-MD applicants who applied to the Otolaryngology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Otolaryngology applicants (total number = 2,548) |
Entered training in Otolaryngology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 240 |
893 |
416 |
47% |
350 |
39% |
127 |
14% |
Score 241-251 |
866 |
635 |
73% |
160 |
18% |
71 |
8% |
Score ≥ 252 |
789 |
661 |
84% |
84 |
11% |
44 |
6% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
16 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
11 |
69% |
*Outside of Otolaryngology training programs, the most common specialties where Otolaryngology applicants entered training were General Surgery, Anesthesiology, and Internal Medicine. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Otolaryngology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Otolaryngology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Otolaryngology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering an Otolaryngology residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering an Otolaryngology residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 252 (yellow line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (28 applications; confidence band of 23 to 34) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores < 252. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 80%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 241 to 251 (gray line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (45 applications; confidence band of 38 to 52) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 240. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 79%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 240 (purple line) submitted the highest number of applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (48 applications; confidence band of 40 to 55). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 63%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Pathology (U.S. MD)
The study included data from 2,412 U.S.-MD applicants who applied to the Pathology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Pathology applicants (total number = 2,412) |
Entered training in Pathology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 215 |
803 |
388 |
48% |
129 |
16% |
286 |
36% |
Score 216-237 |
825 |
621 |
75% |
103 |
12% |
101 |
12% |
Score ≥ 238 |
784 |
636 |
81% |
80 |
10% |
68 |
9% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
186 |
60 |
32% |
28 |
15% |
98 |
53% |
*Outside of Pathology training programs, the most common specialties where Pathology applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, General Surgery, and Family Medicine. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Pathology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Pathology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Pathology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering a Pathology residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering a Pathology residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines (points of diminishing returns). The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 238 (yellow line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (16 applications; confidence band of 14 to 18) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores < 238. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 90%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 216 to 237 (gray line) submitted more applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (17 applications; confidence band of 16 to 19) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 238. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 81%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 215 (purple line) submitted the highest number of applicantions before reaching the point of diminishing returns (22 applications; confidence band of 20 to 25). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 76%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Pediatrics (U.S. MD)
The study included data from 14,334 U.S.-MD applicants who applied to the Pediatrics training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Pediatrics applicants (total number = 14,334) |
Entered training in Pediatrics |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 216 |
4,845 |
3,693 |
76% |
606 |
13% |
546 |
11% |
Score 217-234 |
4,743 |
4,058 |
86% |
489 |
10% |
196 |
4% |
Score ≥ 235 |
4,746 |
4,035 |
85% |
572 |
12% |
139 |
3% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
781 |
429 |
55% |
142 |
18% |
210 |
27% |
*Outside of Pediatrics training programs, the most common specialties where Pediatrics applicants entered training were Internal Medicine - Pediatrics, Internal Medicine, and Family Medicine. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Pediatrics and the percentage of applicants who entered in Pediatrics by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Pediatrics training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Pediatrics and the percentage of applicants who entered in Pediatrics by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Pediatrics training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 235 (yellow line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (14 applications; confidence band of 13 to 14) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores < 235. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 88%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 217 to 234 (gray line) submitted more applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (16 applications; confidence band of 15 to 16) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 235. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 87%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 216 (purple line) submitted the highest number of applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (22 applications; confidence band of 22 to 23). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 81%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Plastic Surgery - Integrated (U.S. MD)
The study included data from 1,582 U.S.-MD applicants who applied to the Integrated Plastic Surgery training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Integrated Plastic Surgery applicants (total number = 1,582) |
Entered training in Integrated Plastic Surgery |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 235 |
527 |
133 |
25% |
282 |
54% |
112 |
21% |
Score 236-250 |
561 |
313 |
56% |
190 |
34% |
58 |
10% |
Score ≥ 251 |
494 |
353 |
71% |
105 |
21% |
36 |
7% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
20 |
-- |
-- |
10 |
50% |
-- |
-- |
*Outside of Integrated Plastic Surgery training programs, the most common specialties where Integrated Plastic Surgery applicants entered training were General Surgery, Anesthesiology, and Diagnostic Radiology. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Integrated Plastic Surgery and the percentage of applicants who entered in Integrated Plastic Surgery by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Integrated Plastic Surgery training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Point of diminishing return estimates cannot be reported because of the instability of the data for applicants in this specialty.
Psychiatry (U.S. MD)
The study included data from 6,830 U.S.-MD applicants who applied to the Psychiatry training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Psychiatry applicants (total number = 6,830) |
Entered training in Psychiatry |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 209 |
2,357 |
1,522 |
65% |
246 |
10% |
589 |
25% |
Score 210-228 |
2,268 |
1,753 |
77% |
264 |
12% |
251 |
11% |
Score ≥ 229 |
2,205 |
1,752 |
79% |
261 |
12% |
192 |
9% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
711 |
349 |
49% |
93 |
13% |
269 |
38% |
*Outside of Psychiatry training programs, the most common specialties where Psychiatry applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and the combined specialty of Pediatrics/Psychiatry/Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Psychiatry and the percentage of applicants who entered in Psychiatry by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Psychiatry training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering a Psychiatry residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering a Psychiatry residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines. The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 229 (yellow line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (14 applications; confidence band of 13 to 15) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores < 229. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 84%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 210 to 228 (gray line) submitted more applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (15 applications; confidence band of 13 to 17) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 229. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 77%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 209 (purple line) submitted the highest number of applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (23 applications; confidence band of 21 to 25). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 71%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Radiation Oncology (U.S. MD)
The study included data from 1,295 U.S.-MD applicants who applied to the Radiation Oncology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Radiation Oncology applicants (total number = 1,295) |
Entered training in Radiation Oncology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 235 |
443 |
217 |
49% |
140 |
32% |
86 |
19% |
Score 236-248 |
432 |
318 |
74% |
99 |
23% |
15 |
3% |
Score ≥ 249 |
420 |
339 |
81% |
76 |
18% |
-- |
-- |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
20 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
*Outside of Radiation Oncology training programs, the most common specialties where Radiation Oncology applicants entered training were Internal Medicine, Diagnostic Radiology, and General Surgery. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Radiation Oncology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Radiation Oncology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Radiation Oncology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering a Radiation Oncology residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering a Radiation Oncology residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines. The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 249 (yellow line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (23 applications; confidence band of 19 to 27) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores < 249. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 77%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 236 to 248 (gray line) submitted more applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (35 applications; confidence band of 30 to 40) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 249. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 78%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 235 (purple line) submitted the highest number of applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (36 applications; confidence band of 28 to 44). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 75%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Urology (U.S. MD)
The study included data from 1,765 U.S.-MD applicants who applied to the Urology training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2017 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Urology applicants (total number = 1,765) |
Entered training in Urology |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 237 |
628 |
373 |
59% |
205 |
33% |
50 |
8% |
Score 238-248 |
584 |
454 |
78% |
110 |
19% |
20 |
3% |
Score ≥ 249 |
553 |
458 |
83% |
83 |
15% |
12 |
2% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
*Outside of Urology training programs, the most common specialties where Urology applicants entered training were General Surgery, Internal Medicine, and Anesthesiology. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Urology and the percentage of applicants who entered in Urology by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Urology training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering a Urology residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering a Urology residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines. The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 249 (yellow line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (19 applications; confidence band of 10 to 27) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores < 249. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 77%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
The point of diminishing returns for with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 238 to 248 could not be estimated because of the instability of the data for applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores in this range.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 237 (purple line) submitted the highest number of applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (46 applications; confidence band of 33 to 59). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 60%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
Vascular Surgery - Integrated (U.S. MD)
The study included data from 735 U.S.-MD applicants who applied to the Integrated Vascular Surgery training programs in ERAS® between 2013 and 2018 and who have scores for the USMLE Step 1 exam.
Specialty Entrance Rates
Step 1 Exam score result |
Integrated Vascular Surgery applicants (total number = 735) |
Entered training in Integrated Vascular Surgery |
Entered training in another specialty* |
No record of entering training |
|||
N | N | % | N | % | N | % | |
Score ≤ 221 |
245 |
42 |
17% |
132 |
54% |
71 |
29% |
Score 222-239 |
264 |
120 |
45% |
121 |
46% |
23 |
9% |
Score ≥ 240 |
226 |
113 |
50% |
89 |
39% |
24 |
11% |
Failed Step 1 on first attempt** |
26 |
-- |
-- |
11 |
42% |
13 |
50% |
*Outside of Integrated Vascular Surgery training programs, the most common specialties where Integrated Vascular Surgery applicants entered training were General Surgery, Diagnostic Radiology, and Anesthesiology. The most common specialties are only reported where 10 or more applicants entered training. Note: If the number of applicants was less than 10, the number and percentage are replaced with a double dash (--). N = number of applicants; % = percentage of tercile total, where the tercile represents a range of Step 1 scores within that specialty [or percentage of those who failed Step 1 on their first attempt]. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding. |
Understanding the table
The table shows the total number of applicants who applied and entered training in Integrated Vascular Surgery and the percentage of applicants who entered in Integrated Vascular Surgery by Step 1 score ranges. The table also shows the number and percentage of applicants who entered training in another specialty, as well as the number and percentage of applicants with no record of entering training. Entrance rate data come from the GME Track Residency Survey, which typically receives a response rate of about 94% (e.g., 94.4% in 2018). Please note that specialty entrance rate refers to the number of applicants who ultimately entered training in this specialty, not the match or acceptance rate.
In general, the proportion of applicants who entered Integrated Vascular Surgery training increased as Step 1 scores increased, and the entrance rates for applicants who failed Step 1 on their first attempt were lower than entrance rates for applicants who passed Step 1 on their first attempt.
Understanding the figure
This figure shows the relationship between the number of applications submitted and the predicted probability of entering an Integrated Vascular Surgery residency program by USMLE Step 1 score. The x-axis shows the number of applications submitted. The y-axis shows the predicted probability of entering an Integrated Vascular Surgery residency program. Each line represents a group of applicants with a given range of USMLE Step 1 scores.
The point of diminishing returns is an estimate and is not precise. It is best interpreted in the context of a confidence band, which is shown by the shading around the vertical lines. The width of the confidence band (shading) describes the precision of the estimate, with wider bands indicating less precision.
What the findings tell us
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≥ 240 (yellow line) submitted fewer applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (21 applications; confidence band of 12 to 30) than applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 221. The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 78%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.
The point of diminishing returns for with USMLE Step 1 scores ranging from 222 to 239 could not be estimated because of the instability of the data for applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores in this range.
Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores ≤ 221 (purple line) submitted the highest number of applications before reaching the point of diminishing returns (22 applications; confidence band of 8 to 36). The likelihood of entering a residency program at this point is 50%. The addition of one application beyond this point results in a lower rate of return on an applicant’s likelihood of entering a residency program.