The match process is how you and your residency program come together. Both you and the program will submit what is called a "Rank Order List" to the match program. There is then an algorithmic program that matches programs and applicants.
Some osteopathic students choose to use the AOA match program (NMS) exclusively, and others choose to use the Allopathic match program (NRMP) exclusively. Still others will work with both programs in order to get what they feel is the best opportunity to match with their top-choice program.
Osteopathic students may apply to allopathic residency programs, but allopathic students cannot at this time apply for an osteopathic residency. Some osteopathic students choose to apply only to dual-accredited programs - programs that operate under the accredication of both the AOA and the ACGME. This is a personal decision that each student must make for him/herself.
Osteopathic Match Program - The AOA Intern/Resident Registration Program is a matching program that places students into osteopathic training positions in the United States for the first postdoctoral year of training (OGME-1).
Allopathic Match Program
Urology Match
San Francisco Match
Military Matches - Students with military commitments will participate in the government's military matching program, which is completed prior to the AOA Match process.
Students who have been assigned to a military program cannot participate in the AOA Match and must inform NMS of their military position by January 23, 2009. The procedure for notifying NMS will be included in the Rank Order List instructions provided to students by the end of November. NMS will then inform the AOA on behalf of the student.
Students who have not been assigned to a military program, but who have a military commitment, may fully participate in the AOA Match. It is the student's responsibility to advise programs of the potential for military obligations during the interview process.
If a trainee participates in a Federal/Military postdoctoral training program, the trainee may apply for AOA approval. Students are advised to seek such approval to keep open the opportunity for expanded practice options, as well as the option of AOA certification in any chosen specialty.
After the match process has been completed, all applicants are notified on the same day of their program matches. A "scramble" process allows applicants who did not match to find a program.