Apply to Residency
How to Apply Heading link
Applicants may submit documentation via the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP) and Electronic Resident Application Service (ERAS). We are fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) for a total complement of eleven residents. We alternate between taking one and two PGY1 residents each year.
We evaluate prospective applicants in a comprehensive process based on multiple criteria. Applicants are assessed with respect to academic accomplishments, USMLE scores, personal statement, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities and interpersonal skills. Applicants who are deemed qualified based on the above criteria are selected for an interview. We typically hold three interview dates and applicants are extended an invitation around mid-October. Our interview process begins in the late afternoon with program presentations followed by transportation to the dinner venue. Individual interviews and hospital tours are conducted the following day.
After the completion of our interviews, both our program and applicants submit final rank lists to the NRMP. Applicants will be notified of their match results during match day in mid-March.
Questions? Please contact: Heading link
Avis Foster, Residency Coordinator
Department of Neurosurgery,
University of Illinois at Chicago
Frequently Asked Questions Heading link
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Applying
All applicants must apply directly to the ERAS website.
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The PGY-1 year of training in Neurological Surgery has become a categorical component of neurosurgical residency as of July 1, 2009. Therefore, you will not need to apply separately for PGY-1 positions. Submit your application directly to ERAS to participate in the neurosurgical matching program.
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USLME scores/transcripts, medical school transcripts, photo, 3 letters of recommendation, Dean’s letter, Curriculum Vitae, personal statement, ECFMG (IMGs). The application will not be considered complete until all documents are submitted.
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We do not have a predetermined score requirement but rather look at the various aspects of a candidate’s application to get an overall perspective. Applicants with low scores are less likely to be competitive for an interview.
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Completion of Step 2 for US medical student is preferred at the time of your application, but is not an absolute requirement. For IMGs completion of Step 1 and Step 2 is a requirement to obtain ECFMG certification, and therefore, must be completed prior to application.
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Yes.
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The only visa the program is able to sponsor is the J-1 visa which is sponsored through ECFMG. If you are an IMG, you should familiarize yourself in detail with the J-1 visa, and its implications.
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No.
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U.S. clinical experience is not an absolute requirement for application. However, it is considered an important component of the application for IMGs.
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Yes, we are affiliated with the University of Illinois at Chicago.
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All aspects of a candidate’s application are factored in the decision to offer an interview. These include USMLE scores, medical school evaluations, letters of recommendation, research and clinical experience. Medical student advisors at your own institution can provide guidance as to the appropriateness of your application for a Neurosurgical program.