Interview preparation guide
Asking about board pass rates and graduate outcomes: residency interview preparation guide
AAMC's program-performance questions ask what percent of residents complete the program, what percent of graduates pass the specialty boards on their first attempt and where graduates go, such as fellowship, academics or private practice.
How to prepare
- 1
Ask the three figures plainly
The AAMC list asks what percent of residents complete the program, what percent of graduates pass the specialty boards on their first attempt and where graduates go. Ask all three so one strong figure cannot carry a weak one.
- 2
Ask what period the figures cover
A reported percentage means little without its timeframe. Ask which years the figures describe and request a specific example, which AAMC says gives a true understanding of the program.
- 3
Treat figures as reported answers
Record the figures with who answered and when. Some questions are best answered by residents and some by program leaders, according to AAMC, so note the source before you compare programs.
A practical exercise
Completion rate: [..] for [years]. First-attempt pass rate: [..] for [years]. Graduate destinations: [..]. Source: [resident or leader].
This is an editorial exercise to adapt to your own interview, not a script or a program requirement.
What the source guidance supports
AAMC's program-performance questions ask what percent of residents complete the program, what percent of graduates pass the specialty boards on their first attempt and where graduates go, such as fellowship, academics or private practice.
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
- Treating a reported percentage as a personal guarantee.
- Not asking which years a figure covers.
- Comparing rates that cover different periods.
Check your preparation
- Did I ask all three questions?
- Did I ask what period the figures cover?
- Did I note who answered and when?
Questions for your practice review
- What percent of residents complete the program?
- What percent pass the boards on the first attempt?
- Where did last year's graduates go?
Common questions
Is this an official list of required questions?
No. AAMC describes it as a list created by residents and students to help you assess fit, and says to build your own more specific questions from it.
Who should I ask?
AAMC says some questions are best answered by residents and some by program leaders. Put performance figures to a program leader and ask residents how preparation for the boards feels.
Is this current for the 2027 ERAS season?
AAMC publishes this question list as current guidance for applicants interviewing in the 2027 ERAS season. Program answers change year to year, so ask each program for its own current answer.
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.