The Match
Any match process can be stressful, and the ophthalmology match is no exception. Ophthalmology is indisputably among the most competitive specialties. This year, the USMLE scores of successful applicants was higher than ever before:
Average Matched USMLE Score: 245
Average Non-matched Score: 228
Average number of applications submitted by each applicant: 70
However, planning ahead can help reduce anxiety, and ultimately make you a more confident and competitive applicant! Your first step in the process should be to review the website for the SF Match (www.sfmatch.org), which coordinates the ophthalmology application process. And your second step should be to get in touch with our ophthalmology adviser, Dr. Duncan.
UCSF Ophthalmology Advisor and Vice Chair of Medical Student Education
Dr. Neeti Parikh
Our Ophthalmology Student Coordinator
Shelle Libberton
Shelle.libberton@ucsf.edu
The ophthalmology match is one of three residencies that matches earlier than other specialty programs (the other two are plastic surgery and neurology). The general calendar of important dates is outlined below.
General Application Timeline
during spring of 3rd year
July: Registration for the Match: www.sfmatch.org
May/June/July: Surgical SubInternship in Ophthalmology Course
September 1: Target Deadline for Ophthalmology Residency Application
November: Interviews Begin
December: Interview Season
January/Feb: Rank list due and Match Results!
February: Preliminary Rank list due
March: Preliminary Match
Sites of Interest
Clinical Ophthalmology ILMs: This site has a ton of great independent learning modules created by the Curriculum Ambassadors of 2011. They are a great resource and way to learn about different diseases treated in Ophthalmology. There are also other useful links annd video instruction on how to perform direct ophthalmoscopy