LORs for IM

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uscanmd

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Hi guys, i was looking reading about different IM programs and their LOR requirements and noticed that many of them are asking for a "Chairman" or "Department" letter. I only have a Program Director's letter (in addition to my other "regular" letter), so i was wondering if that's a requirement? are all of you getting these Chairman's letters?
 
Hi guys, i was looking reading about different IM programs and their LOR requirements and noticed that many of them are asking for a "Chairman" or "Department" letter. I only have a Program Director's letter (in addition to my other "regular" letter), so i was wondering if that's a requirement? are all of you getting these Chairman's letters?

Most graduates of US MD schools will get a Chairman's letter. It's sort of a 2nd MSPE focusing on IM and your school should provide one without debate or difficulty. If you're an IMG, then it's a different story.
 
Apologize for the n00b question.

My chairperson letter won't be available until Sept 30th. Will this put me at a disadvantage for any of the programs to which I apply? Are applications-->interviews seriously considered before the Oct. 15th dean's letter?
 
Apologize for the n00b question.

My chairperson letter won't be available until Sept 30th. Will this put me at a disadvantage for any of the programs to which I apply? Are applications-->interviews seriously considered before the Oct. 15th dean's letter?

No, and yes, respectively. Any program which would offer you an interview before the MSPE probably isn't inviting you based on your LORs, but rather your stats (Steps, AOA, Clerkship grades, etc).
 
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