I was just looking at the number of approved positions for various programs on the ACGME site. My question is, if the total number of approved postions exceeds the number of filled positions, can a program accept more PGY1s than it typically allows or is there still a max # for these applicants? Also, would these programs be allowed to offer a position outside of the match after turning in their rank order lists if space is still available? Here's an example:

Program X
ACGME approved positions 20
Program filled positions 16

PGY1 5
PGY2 3
PGY3 4
PGY4 4

Say that the program makes 5 positions available for the match
Could they theoretically admit more PGY1s since 4 spots remain unfilled?

Thanks

Theoretically yes. For example, we are approved for more Prelim spots than we generally fill in the match. Depending on the man-power need we may offer those positions outside of the match up to the max approved number. I understand the ability to change the number of approved Categorical spots is much more difficult - therefore programs which have more spots are generally filling those with Prelims, not Categorical residents.