When to apply to programs ?

[dillinja]

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hi!
I have my STEP 2 CK scheduled for Sep 11.
Do I have to send out all my applications on Sep 2, or is it ok if I wait till after Sep 11 (since applying will essentially take time away from studying). Will it be too late ??

Thanks!

 

[Law2Doc]

hi!
I have my STEP 2 CK scheduled for Sep 11.
Do I have to send out all my applications on Sep 2, or is it ok if I wait till after Sep 11 (since applying will essentially take time away from studying). Will it be too late ??

Thanks!

For most, applying on 9/2 just means clicking a button since everything is already in ERAS ready to go. If you are at that stage, then I would say just take a 2 minute study break and click that button. If you haven't started putting stuff together yet, you probably wouldn't want to apply by 9/2 anyway, because for most it took quite a while picking programs, entering and editing everything to perfection, and I kind of doubt you will be happy with the results if you rush it by Tuesday.

Some program directors will download things early, start giving out interviews early. Others, like the dude I talked to a few weeks back, won't be looking at ERAS until October. So it's a mixed bag. If your credentials are strong, I wouldn't worry. If they aren't as strong, earlier probably is beneficial.

 

[dillinja]

Well I'm already done with most things that have to do with ERAS, but I haven't researched any of the programs that I want to apply to, and I feel (as you said) that it will take a lot of time, time that I don't want to take away from my studying unless I have to.
On the other hand, I wouldn't want to be ruining any chances of mine by applying too late..

I'm applying to OBGYN btw..

Thanks again!

 

[Law2Doc]

Well I'm already done with most things that have to do with ERAS, but I haven't researched any of the programs that I want to apply to, and I feel (as you said) that it will take a lot of time, time that I don't want to take away from my studying unless I have to.
On the other hand, I wouldn't want to be ruining any chances of mine by applying too late..

I'm applying to OBGYN btw..

Thanks again!

If your credentials are strong for that not-particularly-competitive path, I wouldn't sweat it either way.

 

[Uegis]

Yeah, I have been told to apply when ready. But I have also been told to submit on day 1 no matter what. I guess it depends on competitiveness of the specialty. As I recall though, OB/GYN is getting more and more competitive. In fact, I know of several people who did not match in the past few years. Unless you are a male of course. Then you are a prized jewel at programs. Not trying to scare you dillinja, just sharing some information I have.

I agree with Law2Doc though. Apply when ready.

 

[NotAProgDirector]

There is not much difference in applying Sspt 1 vs Sept 15 vs Oct 1. Applying after Nov 1 can work out, but suggests you are late and/or this was a second string application (after a first round of rejections). Applying after Dec 1st strongly suggests something strnage.

 

[dillinja]

Thanks a lot for the feedback!

 

[ranmyaku]

i have 230/96 on step1 but 194/79 on step 2. i have applied to anesthesiology and radiology in not so top notch places. i have released my scores. please tell me what to do. please help me.

Cross your fingers and hope for the best?

Why did you take step 2 early?

 

[dragonfly99]

Well the lower step 2 might hurt you somewhat...but would think that if you have good letters of recommendation you will probably match somewhere. Also if you are in the top 1/3 of your med school class, or go to a well known med school, would think you would match. If you don't have any of these things, it may be up in the air, but likely you'll match...if you are worried you could try throwing out a few more applications.

This can serve as a warning to others with higher step 1 scores...if I had a 230 or higher it would be better to sit on the score...