Texas match algorithm?

[hector219]

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Anyone know precisely how this works? For example:

Lets say school 1 has 5 spots to give out through the match and school 2 has 100. I rank 1 higher than 2. Another student ranks 2 higher than one. I don't get matched to my first choice (1) and school 2 ranks me higher than the other student. Does the other student get picked because school 2 was their first choice or do I get it because I'm ranked higher by them?

 

[TexasPrincess]

I would love to know this, too. Also, do they take into account how many schools you interview at?

 

[Parts Unknown]

I believe the TMDSAS algorithm is similar to the one that the NRMP uses.

In your example, you would be matched at school 2 before the other student.

Step 1: Algorithm looks at your rank list and tentatively matches you with school 1.
Step 2: Algorithm looks at school 1's rank list and fills the five spots before they reach you (with people who also ranked school 1 as their #1).
Step 3: Algorithm looks back at your rank list and tentatively matches you with school 2.
Step 4: Algorithm looks at school 2's rank list and continues filling spots. Since you are ranked higher on school 2's list, you would get a spot before the other student.

In summary, the algorithm will not penalize you for ranking schools in your honest order of preference. You may penalize yourself by trying to game the algorithm unnecessarily.

 

[7starmantis]

You may penalize yourself by trying to game the algorithm unnecessarily.

Very true.