Interview preparation guide
Preparing for interviews as a couple: residency interview preparation guide
AAMC notes that matching as a couple raises the stakes and suggests applying widely and to multiple programs in the same city. Plan communication, costs and schedules together.
How to prepare
- 1
Apply and plan widely
AAMC says to apply widely and focus on multiple programs in the same city to increase match options. It also says you can decline interviews later. The NRMP 2027 agreement says to accept only interviews you intend to fulfill.
- 2
Estimate costs separately
An AAMC page dated October 2, 2024 says there is no national data on couples' expenses and suggests doubling the estimate for one person as a starting point, with a possible range of $800 to $14,000. Also research ERAS and NRMP fees for the couples match. Replace the estimate with your own numbers.
- 3
Coordinate schedules and communication
Create a shared calendar for interview dates, travel and response deadlines. Use each program's process for communicating about your situation. Ask your advisor what to say, and keep each person's ranking details private unless you decide to share them.
A practical exercise
Shared calendar: [..]. Cities: [..]. Programs per city: [..]. Estimated cost: [..]. Communication rules: [..]. Advisor contact: [..].
This is an editorial exercise to adapt to your own interview, not a script or a program requirement.
What the source guidance supports
AAMC describes couples matching as raising the stakes, with suggestions to apply widely and to estimate costs and fees carefully.
The exercises and checklists are editorial applications of the cited guidance, not required program procedures or predictions of interview outcomes. Costs and formats vary by program, so follow your actual invitation and school guidance.
Mistakes to avoid
- Assuming programs know you are a couple.
- Doubling a cost estimate without checking fares.
- Sharing ranking preferences with programs.
Check your preparation
- Are we applying in overlapping cities?
- Is the budget realistic?
- Do we know each program's communication process?
Questions for your practice review
- Which cities overlap?
- How do we coordinate schedules?
- Who advises us?
Common questions
Should couples apply to more programs?
AAMC suggests applying widely and to multiple programs in the same city. Discuss the right number with your advisors.
How much does it cost?
An AAMC page dated October 2, 2024 says no national data exists and suggests doubling one person's estimate to about $6,000 with a possible range of $800 to $14,000. Your own cost, and current costs, will differ.
Can we decline interviews?
AAMC says you can decline interviews later. The NRMP 2027 agreement says to accept only interviews you intend to fulfill and to give reasonable notice if you must cancel.
Related guides
Sources
- AAMC: the cost of interviewing for residency
- AAMC Careers in Medicine: after an interview
- NRMP: 2027 Match Participation Agreement for applicants
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.