Applying to the US match without CS?

[Dermseeker]

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I am an IMG from a European med school. I have a step 1 score of 254. 2 neurology electives in the US and 3 LOR. 1 unpublished research project in neuroscience. I’m taking Step 2 CK in August and my results will be back before ERAS opens. However, the closet CS date I could get is on October 16th.Shall I apply to the match to neurology without CS and see my chances? Another question, if I applied and got nothing, will that affect my success for a future match? Thanks!

 

[CidHighwind]

Take it ASAP, and be on the lookout for earlier openings. Since you’re an IMG, programs will actually care about your CS score.

 

[Dermseeker]

I have been trying to get a sooner CS date for months now but haven’t managed that. That’s the problem!

 

[GoSpursGo]

It all depends on how easy it is for you to potentially fund multiple applications and how happy you are with any random residency vs a "better" program.

Your step 1 score is very high, so I think you stand a good chance of getting some interviews if your CK score is also similarly high. The more selective programs might want a CS score before offering an interview, though. If that's fine with you, then go ahead and apply this year.

If the worst happens and you don't match, I don't think you will have hurt yourself for next year's match.

 

[Dermseeker]

It all depends on how easy it is for you to potentially fund multiple applications and how happy you are with any random residency vs a "better" program.

Your step 1 score is very high, so I think you stand a good chance of getting some interviews if your CK score is also similarly high. The more selective programs might want a CS score before offering an interview, though. If that's fine with you, then go ahead and apply this year.

If the worst happens and you don't match, I don't think you will have hurt yourself for next year's match.

Sounds good! I appreciate your help!