Categorical IM + Prelimary IM in the same program?

[rankin]

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I'm going for IM and FM. For IM should I apply to both categorical and prelim to increase my chances of getting a spot or does it look like I'm not committed to IM even if I specify my PGY2 interest is still IM ?

I know there are a couple other threads on this but they have maybe 1 view 1 way and 1 the other way without any real consensus.

Thanks!

 

[Winged Scapula]

Moving to ERAS/Match forum.

 

[rankin]

Moving to ERAS/Match forum.

Sorry, thanks.

 

[NotAProgDirector]

There's no consensus because there's no easy answer. Applying for both seems to give you more "chances", but might make the cat programs think "less" of you because you applied for both. If the Categorical IM and Prelim IM are two different tracks in the same program, then there's only one fee to apply to both (I think), so there's little (if any) financial cost.

Options:

1) Apply to both, hope for the best.
2) Apply to Cat only. If rejected, then add the Prelim (it should be free if a second track in the same program)
3) Mix and match from above, see what happens, and report back here