Interview preparation guide

Preparing a rank list based on true preferences: residency interview preparation guide

The NRMP 2027 agreement describes the Match as letting applicants decide based on their true preferences. It also makes a match a binding commitment, so prepare your decision criteria before any program contact influences you.

Practice in a mock interview Browse practice prompts

How to prepare

1
List what matters to you
Write down training priorities, location needs, support, schedule structure and other factors that affect your decision. The NRMP Code says rank lists should reflect your true preferences, the characteristics of the programs interviewed and the perceived alignment with program aims. Use your own notes after each interview, separating confirmed facts from impressions.
2
Compare programs on your criteria
Use the same questions for each program instead of relying on a gut impression from the last interview. Include practical limits, such as family, finances or access to care. A numerical score is optional and should not replace judgment.
3
Respect the binding commitment
The agreement says matched applicants are in a binding commitment and must start training, and that it is honored by entering and remaining in the program through the first 45 calendar days after the start date. Only the NRMP can grant a waiver or deferral. If you need a visa, the agreement says you must confirm the institution's willingness to sponsor your visa type before certifying your rank order list.

A practical exercise

Program: [..]. Confirmed facts: [..]. Strengths for me: [..]. Concerns: [..]. Would I accept a match here: [yes/no with reason].

This is an editorial exercise to adapt to your own interview, not a script or a program requirement.

What the source guidance supports

The NRMP 2027 agreement describes true-preference decisions, the binding commitment and the visa sponsorship confirmation requirement.

The exercises and checklists are editorial applications of the cited guidance, not legal advice, required program procedures or predictions of interview outcomes. NRMP statements were checked against the 2027 Match Participation Agreement for applicants and the Match Code of Conduct for Applicants, which the NRMP applicant code page (updated November 21, 2024) links as its current document. They are separate documents. Follow your actual invitation, school guidance and the current NRMP documents.

Mistakes to avoid

Ranking because of a flattering comment.
Letting the most recent interview dominate.
Including a program you would not accept.

Check your preparation

Are my criteria written down?
Is each fact verified?
Would I accept every ranked program?

Questions for your practice review

What matters most?
Which concern is serious?
What did I learn that is verified?

Common questions

Should I rank where I think I am wanted?

The agreement describes decisions based on true preferences. This guide does not provide a strategy for predicting program decisions.

What does binding mean?

The NRMP 2027 agreement says a match creates a binding commitment that only the NRMP can waive or defer, honored by entering and remaining in the program through the first 45 calendar days.

Related guides

Sources

This page is general editorial guidance based on the sources above. It is not a prediction of any program's questions or a statement of its current policies.