Applying to the Match is a process with many steps, and there’s a new one for the 2021-22 cycle: the Supplemental ERAS Application. According to the AAMC, this application is “designed to help students share more about themselves and assist program directors in finding applicants that fit their programs’ setting and mission.” Below, we’ll share everything we know about this new application component!
Do all residency applicants need to complete the new Supplemental ERAS Application?
Applicants applying to internal medicine (preliminary and categorical), general surgery (categorical), and dermatology during the 2021-22 Match cycle may need to complete this new ERAS component. On September 1st, 2021, the AAMC will begin sending invitations with personalized links to applicants who save or apply to a program in one of the participating specialties.
Is the new Supplemental ERAS Application required or optional?
Individual programs will decide if the new component is required or optional. Beginning in early August, the AAMC will provide a list of residency programs participating in the Supplemental application on their website.
What is the timeline for the new Supplemental ERAS Application?
Per the AAMC:
| Activity | Date |
| Supplemental ERAS Application Essentials published | August 4th |
| List of participating programs published | August 4th |
| Supplemental ERAS Application opens | September 1st |
| Supplemental ERAS Application closes | September 30th |
| Data available to Program Directors | September 29*/October 6th** |
*Supplemental ERAS Applications submitted by September 19th will be available to programs on 9/29.
**Supplemental ERAS Applications submitted between September 20th – 30th will be available to programs on 10/6.
What content is required for the Supplemental ERAS Application?
There are three sections of the new application, as per the AAMC:
1. Past Experiences – The experiences section is designed to showcase who you are and your journey to residency by highlighting experiences you identify as particularly meaningful or other impactful experiences that you overcame on your journey to residency.
2. Geographic Information – The geographic information section is designed to give applicants who wish to do so the opportunity to describe their interest in particular geographic divisions or urban or rural settings.
3. Preference signaling – Preference signaling refers to a process in which applicants express interest in a residency program at the time of application. Preference signals are intended to be used by programs as one of many data points in deciding whom to invite to interview. Preference signaling does NOT affect the number of applications you submit.
How can you learn more about the new Supplemental ERAS Application?
Access the Supplemental ERAS Application Guide here.
As always, Match A Resident strives to keep applicants updated with the latest information concerning the Match! So, as more information is released concerning the Supplemental ERAS Application, we will keep you updated.
With Match season almost in full swing, let us help save you time with program research. You can visit us at MatchAResident.com to learn more about our Customized Program Lists. If you need assistance optimizing and editing your Personal Statement, Letters of Recommendation, or the written sections of your MyERAS Application, visit us at ResidencyExperts.com to see how we can help!
