ERAS 2020- 2021 Application Checklist

The ERAS application submission for MATCH 2021 has started from September 1. Most applicants must have been working on their applications already, but if not then it’s time to buckle up and get started.

Here’s a checklist to ensure you don’t skip out on anything:

First and foremost, make sure you’ll be done with all the USMLE Step exams (and OET if applicable) and have your scores in time. Get your credentials verified so that you can get your ECFMG certification. You can read our article about the verification of credentials to know more about the process.

Using ERAS start researching programs and list those that you intend to apply to. The program list can be exhaustive for certain specialties so keep working on it from time to time.

MyERAS application – uploading and assigning documents

Contact your medical school for the Medical School Performance Evaluation (MSPE) and the Medical School Transcripts.

Make sure your ECFMG Status Report has been uploaded.

Authorize the release of your USMLE transcript.

Send requests to your letter writers for the Letters of Recommendation and follow up with them.

Start writing your Personal Statement and get it reviewed by your family, friends, colleagues etc. especially for grammar and spelling.

Fill in your personal information and other details in the application section to create your CV. Think about everything you did in medical school and put in relevant information. The ERAS CV is quite extensive so begin early.

Get a professional Photograph clicked and upload it.

Make sure all the documents are accurate and meet program requirements.
Keep checking your emails and the message center on MyERAS for updates.
Don’t rush to certify and submit your application until you’re satisfied. According to the latest ERAS update, all applications submitted on or before October 21, 9 am ET will display the application date as ‘October 21’ to programs. Only those submitted after October 21 will be date stamped in real time.

Lastly, check that you have uploaded all the required documents using this checklist and then wait to hear from the programs.
All the best!!

This post was written by Dr. Shreya Sodhani, MBBS who wants to pursue a Pediatrics residency in the US. Ask your questions to the author using the comments section below.

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