Match Question

[Pegasus]

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I was recently told by someone that a program that I am VERY interested in told them that if they did not rank their program as #1, they would not match into the program because it is such a desired program.

I just need some clarification. Say I rank a program #2, and they rank me very high, but I do not get into my #1, then I should match into my #2 program right? Just because another ranks them #1 but the program ranks them lower, does that mean they match there over me?

Thanks

 

[VentdependenT]

You are correct sir.

 

[Idiopathic]

Originally posted by Pegasus
I was recently told by someone that a program that I am VERY interested in told them that if they did not rank their program as #1, they would not match into the program because it is such a desired program.

I just need some clarification. Say I rank a program #2, and they rank me very high, but I do not get into my #1, then I should match into my #2 program right? Just because another ranks them #1 but the program ranks them lower, does that mean they match there over me?

Thanks

The student gets the preference, I believe, in that situations, where you are ranked higher but have ranked the school lower.

 

[dlbruch]

My understanding is that the match works like this: If a program has a spot open, the student they rank higher gets the spot. So, if you are not matched by your top program and your second choice ranks you #1, you get in no matter how high anyone else ranked the program. It is designed so that you can rank programs in the order you would truly like to go to them- even if you don't get your top 30 choices, if #31 ranks you above someone who ranked them 1st, you win!

 

[Idiopathic]

I think that is a better explanation. In this case, it describes how the 'matchee' is always supposed to have a slight advantage over the institution.

 

[Mirror Form]

Originally posted by dlbruch
My understanding is that the match works like this: If a program has a spot open, the student they rank higher gets the spot. So, if you are not matched by your top program and your second choice ranks you #1, you get in no matter how high anyone else ranked the program. It is designed so that you can rank programs in the order you would truly like to go to them- even if you don't get your top 30 choices, if #31 ranks you above someone who ranked them 1st, you win!

I've heard that, but I've also heard that that's actually not correct though. Some people have told me that the match is an algorithm that's purpose is to achieve the maximum number of filled programs, and that ranking a program too low will decrease your chances of matching there, even if you don't match anywhere else.

 

[Cameron]

Well, there's an easy way to settle this. 😉 The "algorithm" isn't private. In fact, there's a nice description of it on the NRMP's website. Here's the link .

The page steps through the algorithm and gives some examples. It's worth reading through!

 

[UI2003]

Rank your "dream" programs first. The Match is geared towards the student. If you don't think you have a shot in hell - that's your clue to put that program as #1.