Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.
Note: This feature may not be available in some browsers.
The 2026-2027 DO School Specific Threads are now available in the School Specific Discussions forum. The 2025-2026 discussions are now available in the prior year discussions forum.
I was checking out Western U/COMP's list and noticed that a column states "Title" and under it each residency is classified as either "AOA" or just blank. Does AOA title indicate that it's a DO run residency (meaning you don't need to take the USMLE) while blank ones indicate an MD residency (meaning USMLE is neede)?
I was checking out Western U/COMP's list and noticed that a column states "Title" and under it each residency is classified as either "AOA" or just blank. Does AOA title indicate that it's a DO run residency (meaning you don't need to take the USMLE) while blank ones indicate an MD residency (meaning USMLE is neede)?
It's not that simple. The COMLEX is gaining more recognition, so DOs can often times match into moderately competitive MD residencies without having taken the USMLE.
I would plan on taking the USMLE if you are applying for allopathic programs. I have had correspondence with allopathic institutions and programs that have notified me that they do consider "COMPLEX" scores. That right there tells me that I should try to provide them with an exam score they are familiar with.
I would plan on taking the USMLE if you are applying for allopathic programs. I have had correspondence with allopathic institutions and programs that have notified me that they do consider "COMPLEX" scores. That right there tells me that I should try to provide them with an exam score they are familiar with.