Failed CS-Should I apply to programs pending retake?

[Firebal]

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I'm a US-IMG, passed step 1 and CK on first attempts and scheduled to retake CS Dec 14. Should I apply to programs in order to be considered for an IV or should I wait for the CS results to be out (day before ranking according to schedule) before applying? I'm looking at IM, Family Med and Peds. I am afraid not applying early would lower my chances more than an incomplete application would.

 

[Bully Ball]

Might be best to wait a year to apply. You can apply if you got the money to burn but it's going to be hard to get interviews with a failed step as an IMG and not having that passing result back until the day before rank. All programs require IMGs to have Step 1/2/CS passed before the rank deadline, and any program would reasonably be leery of ranking you without knowing if you will pass the second time around. I also think most programs aren't pulling an all-nighter the day before to figure out ranking order and have their lists made at least a few days/week before.

 

[Firebal]

Thanks for your input Bully B.. Most programs mention that CS and CK or either one of the two (and subsequently the ECFMG cert) are needed before ranking or before start of the residency. Does this mean these criterion apply only to ASGs? That every IMG Must absolutely have the full package before getting any IV? I'd appreciate some more insight to this.

 

[Bully Ball]

Bluntly stated, if you didn't have a fail on your transcript record, you might be able to get some interviews depending on the program and your Step1 and/or Step2 score. With so many applicants applying with a complete application and without a fail on their transcript, what is unique about you that they would grant an interview? I'm not saying this to be mean but to show the common rational we assume most PD's to use when screening and selecting. Hopefully that question can also get you thinking about what to say in your personal statement or interview. Is it possible you get an interview with a failed CS and incomplete app? Yes. Is it likely? No.

 

[july07621]

what you should really have done by now is moved your test date up as early as possible. theres no reason to wait until dec 14, and it doesnt take 3 months to prepare for esp if you have passed ck. install check4change its very annoying but worked for me, u'll find openings left and right. sign up for the email updates as well. good luck.

 

[Phloston]

I'm a US-IMG, passed step 1 and CK on first attempts and scheduled to retake CS Dec 14. Should I apply to programs in order to be considered for an IV or should I wait for the CS results to be out (day before ranking according to schedule) before applying? I'm looking at IM, Family Med and Peds. I am afraid not applying early would lower my chances more than an incomplete application would.

Apply as early as possible. It's normal to get into a crisis mode about this sort of stuff, but launch your applications this year. IM, FM and paeds will be forgiving.

 

[Firebal]

what you should really have done by now is moved your test date up as early as possible. theres no reason to wait until dec 14, and it doesnt take 3 months to prepare for esp if you have passed ck. install check4change its very annoying but worked for me, u'll find openings left and right. sign up for the email updates as well. good luck.

moved it up to early nov

 

[Firebal]

Thanks Phloston, I did and got 2 IVS in peds so far. Moved the exam to early Nov.