How to choose a family medicine residency program
With so many factors to consider, choosing a residency program can be daunting—but there are ways to narrow down your options.
Finding a residency program can be a long journey, but it’s a rewarding one. Keep an open mind and conduct a wide search. Doing your due diligence on residency programs can take months, so be sure to give yourself enough time to make such a big decision.
Find out about programs by attending residency fairs, talking to your department chair and reviewing programs' websites. You can build a list and track your favorite programs using the AAFP's residency directory.
Family medicine residency directory
Understanding residency program options
Family medicine is a broad specialty, and the hundreds of available residency options reflect that variety. For example, there are three- and four-year program options, as well as combined specialty programs that require five years of training.
Choosing the best family medicine residency for you
Don’t expect that searching for the best family medicine residency programs and applying to them all will be the end of your search. You need to identify and prioritize what’s important to you in residency programs.
Residency programs are three years long at least. During that time, do you want to live in an urban or rural setting? Do you want to live in a specific area of the country?
Collect as much information as you can. Weigh pros and cons. Identify the people who can help you through the process, whether it be your partner or family members or even someone who has been through the Match recently. Then, it’s time to apply.
Applications and interviews
The residency application process can be a whirlwind of activity and emotions. Start by registering for AAFP’s FUTURE (formerly National Conference) or one of the other family medicine meetings open to students.
Before choosing what programs to apply to, take these steps:
Talk with community physicians, residency program alumni and colleagues who have completed electives through programs that interest you.
Plan to attend conferences and residency exhibitions to compare programs and have personal interactions with program representatives.
Make note of pros and cons for each program as you learn about them. Ask yourself which programs you would most like to visit for an interview if invited.
Finally, it’s time to reflect and prepare applications to specific programs. The residency application process is highly detailed and specific.
Before you start interviews, be sure to visit the AAFP’s residency interview guide.
Prepare for residency program interviews
Residency interview tips
Accept interview invitations promptly and schedule time with the programs that interest you the most. Have a plan for your interviews and follow-up.
Ask questions and take notes on conversations and observations during your visit. Use the AAFP’s list of residency interview questions to help give you a head start.
Making your final residency decision
After all your interviews, you’ll need to create a rank-ordered list of programs based on your research and impressions. Consult your notes from throughout the Match season and reflect on your goals. Finally, it’s time to wait for Match Day.