The Most Difficult Medical Residency to Get into, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the medical residency you think is the most difficult!

Updated on Apr 29, 2024 06:24

Choosing a medical residency is a pivotal decision for every aspiring doctor, marking a significant step in their medical career. The difficulty of gaining entry into various residency programs varies, often reflective of competition, prestige, and the specific demands of the specialty. Knowing which residencies are the most challenging to enter can guide medical students in understanding the landscape of their future profession. By casting votes on the difficulty of different medical residencies, users contribute to a collective insight that benefits all medical students preparing to make this crucial decision. This dynamic ranking offers up-to-date reflections from peers and professionals already immersed in the medical field, providing a valuable perspective to those at the crossroads of their educational paths.

What Is the Most Difficult Medical Residency to Get into?

1

82
votes
Neurosurgery residency

Neurosurgery is one of the most challenging and competitive medical specialties to get into. It involves the diagnosis, treatment, and surgical intervention of conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system. The residency typically lasts seven years, and the selection process is highly competitive. According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, the acceptance rate for neurosurgery residency programs is around 70%.
Neurosurgery residency is a highly specialized medical training program designed to train physicians to become neurosurgeons. Neurosurgeons are medical doctors who diagnose and surgically treat disorders of the brain, spine, and nervous system. This residency requires a comprehensive understanding of neuroanatomy, physiology, and pathology, as well as advanced surgical skills.

Duration: 7-8 years

Entry requirements: Completion of medical school and obtaining a medical license

Competitiveness: Extremely competitive; limited number of positions available

Intense training: Extensive clinical rotations and demanding work hours

Complex procedures: Performing intricate surgeries on the brain, spine, and nervous system
2

33
votes
Cardiothoracic surgery residency

Cardiothoracic surgery is a highly specialized field that deals with the surgical treatment of conditions affecting the heart, lungs, and chest. The residency program typically lasts six years, and the selection process is extremely competitive. According to the Society of Thoracic Surgeons, the acceptance rate for cardiothoracic surgery residency programs is around 30%.
Cardiothoracic surgery residency is a specialized medical training program that focuses on the surgical treatment of conditions affecting the heart, lungs, chest, and blood vessels. It is known to be one of the most challenging and competitive residencies to be accepted into due to its complexity and the demand for highly skilled surgeons in this field.

Duration: 6 to 8 years

Training Level: Postgraduate

Required Education: Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree

Residency Prerequisites: Completion of a general surgery residency

Competitiveness: Extremely high
3

15
votes
Dermatology residency

American Board of Dermatology

Dermatology is a medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail conditions. The residency program typically lasts four years, and the selection process is highly competitive. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the acceptance rate for dermatology residency programs is around 40%.
Dermatology residency is a highly competitive medical program focused on diagnosing and treating conditions related to the skin, hair, and nails. It provides in-depth training in dermatology techniques, procedures, research, and patient care.

Competitiveness: One of the most competitive specialties to match into

Duration: 3 years of post-graduate training

Training Locations: Hospitals, clinics, and academic institutions specializing in dermatology

Curriculum: Comprehensive dermatology education covering medical, surgical, and cosmetic aspects

Patient Care: Hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating various skin conditions
4

21
votes
Radiation oncology residency

Radiation oncology is a medical specialty that deals with the treatment of cancer using radiation therapy. The residency program typically lasts five years, and the selection process is highly competitive. According to the American Society for Radiation Oncology, the acceptance rate for radiation oncology residency programs is around 45%.
Radiation oncology residency is a highly competitive and demanding medical training program that prepares doctors to specialize in the use of radiation therapy to treat cancer. It combines intensive clinical experience, academic coursework, and research to equip residents with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver optimal care to cancer patients.

Duration: 4 years

Training facilities: Hospitals, cancer centers, and academic institutions

Patient care: Diagnose and plan radiation treatments, manage radiation therapy sessions, monitor patient progress, and provide supportive care

Collaboration: Work closely with multidisciplinary teams including radiation physicists, radiation therapists, and medical oncologists

Research: Active involvement in clinical and/or translational research projects
5

24
votes
Orthopedic surgery residency

Orthopedic surgery is a medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and surgical intervention of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. The residency program typically lasts five years, and the selection process is highly competitive. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the acceptance rate for orthopedic surgery residency programs is around 20%.
Orthopedic surgery residency is a highly competitive and demanding medical program that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and surgery of musculoskeletal disorders. It provides extensive training in both non-operative and operative treatments for bone fractures, sports injuries, joint replacements, spinal deformities, and other orthopedic conditions.

Duration: 5 years

Match rate: around 80%

Residency positions available per year: approximately 650

Clinical rotations: include trauma, sports medicine, pediatrics, foot and ankle surgery, adult reconstruction, hand surgery, spine surgery, etc.

Research involvement: strong emphasis on clinical and basic science research projects
6

13
votes
Plastic surgery residency

Plastic surgery is a medical specialty that deals with the reconstruction, restoration, and alteration of the human body. The residency program typically lasts six years, and the selection process is highly competitive. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the acceptance rate for plastic surgery residency programs is around 25%.
A plastic surgery residency is a highly competitive and demanding postgraduate medical training program that focuses on the specialized field of plastic and reconstructive surgery. This residency is designed to prepare aspiring surgeons to become skilled in the evaluation, management, and surgical treatment of a wide range of congenital and acquired deformities, as well as aesthetic enhancements and reconstructive procedures.

Duration: 6-7 years

Degree Requirement: Doctor of Medicine (MD)

Number of Training Positions: Varies, highly competitive

Training Setting: Hospital-based

Scope: Plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgeries
7

18
votes
Otolaryngology residency

Otolaryngology is a medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the ear, nose, and throat. The residency program typically lasts five years, and the selection process is highly competitive. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, the acceptance rate for otolaryngology residency programs is around 33%.
Otolaryngology residency is a specialized medical training program focused on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders related to the ear, nose, throat, head, and neck. It is one of the most competitive and demanding medical residencies, requiring a high level of expertise and skills in surgical and medical management of conditions affecting the head and neck region. The residency program prepares doctors to become otolaryngologists or ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists.

Duration: 5 years

Clinical Rotations: Comprehensive training in various subspecialties like otology, rhinology, laryngology, head and neck surgery, pediatric otolaryngology, etc.

Surgical Training: Extensive hands-on experience in performing surgical procedures related to the specialty

Research Requirements: Emphasis on conducting clinical or basic science research during the residency

Board Certification: Eligible to pursue certification from the American Board of Otolaryngology upon completion of residency
8

4
votes
Urology residency

Urology is a medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the urinary tract and male reproductive system. The residency program typically lasts five years, and the selection process is highly competitive. According to the American Urological Association, the acceptance rate for urology residency programs is around 30%.
Urology residency is a highly competitive medical postgraduate training program that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and conditions related to the male and female urinary tract system and the male reproductive organs. Urologists are experts in managing a wide range of conditions, including urinary tract infections, kidney stones, prostate diseases, and urologic cancers.

Length of training: 5 years

Competitiveness: Very high

Primary application method: Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS)

Match process: National Resident Matching Program (NRMP)

Residency positions available per year (approx.): 300-400
9

9
votes
Neurology residency

Neurology is a medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the nervous system. The residency program typically lasts four years, and the selection process is highly competitive. According to the American Academy of Neurology, the acceptance rate for neurology residency programs is around 50%.
Neurology residency is a specialized medical training program designed to train physicians in the field of neurology, which focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the nervous system. This residency is known for its complexity and competitive nature, offering a comprehensive experience in neurology to prepare residents to become skilled neurologists.

Duration: 4 years

Number of programs available annually: approximately 200

Prerequisite degree: Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.)

Medical Licensing Exam: United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE)

Application process: Through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS)
10

4
votes
Gastroenterology residency

Gastroenterology is a medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the digestive system. The residency program typically lasts three years, and the selection process is highly competitive. According to the American College of Gastroenterology, the acceptance rate for gastroenterology residency programs is around 60%.
Gastroenterology residency is a medical specialization program focused on diagnosing and treating diseases and disorders of the gastrointestinal tract and liver. It involves comprehensive training in endoscopy, interpreting imaging studies, and managing complex digestive system conditions.

Duration: 3 years

Average number of applicants per spot: 10

Competitiveness: High

Required prior training: Internal Medicine residency

Level of procedural training: Extensive

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Discussion

Ranking factors for difficult medical residency

USMLE/COMLEX scores

Residency programs often take into account the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX) scores during the application process, as these exams test a candidate's medical knowledge and clinical skills. Higher scores can improve one's candidacy for competitive residencies.
Medical school performance

Grades, class rank, and achievements during medical school can play a vital role in determining one's chances of getting into a difficult residency program. Top candidates usually demonstrate strong academic performance, involvement in research projects, and a commitment to leadership and extracurricular activities.
Letters of recommendation

Strong, personalized letters of recommendation from well-respected faculty members can bolster an applicant's chances of securing a competitive residency position.
Research and publications

Participation in research projects, presenting at conferences, and having peer-reviewed publications can demonstrate a commitment to the field and improve the chances of getting into a competitive residency program.
Clinical rotations and electives

The quality and variety of clinical experiences during medical school can contribute to the strength of a residency application. Ideally, an applicant should have a record of excellent performance in clinical rotations relevant to their desired specialty.
Interview performance

During residency interviews, applicants need to demonstrate effective communication skills, maturity, professionalism, and enthusiasm for their chosen specialty. The ability to make a positive impression during interviews can significantly impact the likelihood of being accepted into a competitive residency program.
Networking and connections

Building relationships with faculty members and residents in the desired specialty can be helpful when trying to secure a competitive residency position. These connections may lead to more personalized letters of recommendation or valuable insights about the application process.
Program reputation and location

The prestige of a residency program and its geographical location can influence the competition for spots. Highly-ranked programs in desirable locations may be more difficult to get into than less prestigious programs or those in less attractive areas.
Personal statement

A strong, well-written personal statement can make a significant difference in the residency application by highlighting the applicant's unique experiences and accomplishments, and showcasing their commitment to the field.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most difficult medical residency to get into. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or residency is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

5844 views
209 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each residency once every 24 hours. The rank of each residency is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most difficult medical residency to get into

Medical residency is a crucial step in a physician's career path, providing them with the practical experience and specialized training necessary to become successful doctors. However, not all residency programs are created equal, and some are far more competitive than others. In fact, many aspiring doctors consider the residency application process to be even more challenging than getting into medical school. When it comes to the most difficult medical residencies to get into, a few specialties stand out. These include neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, and plastic surgery, which are known for their intense competition and limited availability. In addition, other highly sought-after specialties such as dermatology and ophthalmology also have reputations for being notoriously difficult to match into. While the exact reasons for the competitiveness of these residencies may vary, factors such as the number of available positions, the prestige of the program, and the perceived earning potential of the specialty all play a role. Aspiring doctors who are considering these competitive fields should be prepared to put in a significant amount of time and effort to stand out from the crowd and secure a coveted residency spot.