Family Medicine Residency Application in the United States: Everything You Need to Know!
- Ash Eighaei Sedeh MD
- Apr 7
- 17 min read
Welcome US Family Medicine residency applicants!
We hope you find this guide helpful.
Our team at IMG Rotations is happy to be a part of your journey.
Table of contents:
"If you would like our help in your residency match journey, schedule a free call with one of our US-based physician-advisors HERE. Alternatively, check out our all-inclusive comprehensive advisory package HERE."
Family Medicine Residency in the United States
Family Medicine residency in the United States is a comprehensive postgraduate training program designed to prepare physicians for independent primary care practice, with a strong emphasis on continuity of care, preventive medicine, and community health. This specialty is known for its broad scope, training doctors to manage a wide range of medical issues across all age groups, from pediatrics to geriatrics.
Family Medicine residency typically lasts three years, although some programs offer an optional fourth year for areas like academic medicine, global health, or public health leadership.
Application Process for Family Medicine Residency
Medical graduates interested in pursuing Family Medicine must apply through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and participate in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). A complete application includes USMLE or COMLEX scores, letters of recommendation (ideally from Family Medicine physicians), a personal statement, and medical school transcripts. U.S. clinical experience is often essential, particularly for international medical graduates (IMGs), and many programs value demonstrated commitment to primary care or community service.
Structure of Family Medicine Residency in the U.S.
Year 1 (PGY-1):
Intern year focuses on core inpatient and outpatient rotations. Residents rotate through internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, emergency medicine, and surgery. They also begin their continuity clinic, where they manage their own panel of patients under supervision.
Year 2 (PGY-2):
Residents continue building skills in outpatient and inpatient care, with added focus on chronic disease management, behavioral health, geriatrics, sports medicine, and community medicine. Obstetrics exposure increases, and some programs offer longitudinal rural or underserved area experiences.
Year 3 (PGY-3):
Residents take on greater leadership roles, often serving as team leads or chief residents. They may customize electives based on career interests, such as procedural skills, urgent care, addiction medicine, or academic medicine. The third year also focuses on board preparation and refining skills for independent practice.
Throughout all years, residents maintain a continuity clinic, a cornerstone of Family Medicine training, where they care for a consistent panel of patients, building long-term therapeutic relationships.
Exams Required During Family Medicine Residency in the U.S.
While there are no additional standardized in-training exams required by all programs, many residencies administer the American Board of Family Medicine In-Training Exam (ITE) annually to assess progress and readiness for board certification.
Board Certification Exam (ABFM)Upon completing residency, graduates sit for the American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) certification exam. It covers the breadth of family medicine, including internal medicine, pediatrics, women's health, geriatrics, and preventive care. It includes both multiple-choice questions and clinical scenario-based assessments.
USMLE or COMLEX Requirements:
Applicants must have passed USMLE Step 1, Step 2 CK, and ideally Step 3 before or early in residency (especially important for IMGs on visas). Some programs may require Step 3 before ranking an applicant.
Average Salary of Family Medicine Physicians in the United States
Family Medicine salaries vary based on factors like location, practice setting, experience, and scope of practice. Here are approximate average annual salary ranges:
Academic Family Medicine:
$190,000 – $220,000Often includes teaching responsibilities and protected time for scholarly work.
Outpatient Clinic (employed model):
$220,000 – $250,000Common in federally qualified health centers or large health systems.
Private Practice (partnership track):
$250,000 – $300,000+Earnings can increase significantly with ownership or productivity-based models.
Urgent Care or Concierge Practice:
$250,000 – $325,000Higher earning potential with longer hours or niche services.
Rural Family Medicine with OB:
$275,000 – $350,000Often comes with loan repayment incentives, signing bonuses, and housing stipends.
Locum Tenens / Telemedicine:
Varies widelyHourly rates can be lucrative ($100–$200/hr) but depend on flexibility and demand.
Family Medicine is also a popular choice for physicians who value work-life balance, broad clinical diversity, and the ability to impact individual patients and entire communities.
Which States Are IMG-Friendly for Family Medicine Residency Candidates?
New Jersey:
Many programs have a long history of accepting international applicants.Close proximity to major cities like New York and Philadelphia makes it attractive to IMGs.Strong visa sponsorship track record.
New York:
One of the most IMG-friendly states across all specialties, including Family Medicine.Offers a large number of community-based and university-affiliated programs.Strong history of J-1 and H-1B visa sponsorship.
Florida:
Home to multiple IMG-inclusive Family Medicine programs.Popular among IMGs due to year-round clinical activity, diverse populations, and visa support.Both academic and community programs welcome international graduates.
Michigan:
A traditionally IMG-welcoming state with several Family Medicine programs.Affordable cost of living and strong community-based training.Many programs support both J-1 and H-1B visas.
Illinois:
Especially in the Chicago area, there are several IMG-friendly Family Medicine residencies.Programs offer excellent outpatient and inpatient exposure in diverse settings.Visa support is common in larger academic programs.
Texas:
Hosts many Family Medicine programs that accept IMGs.While competitive, visa sponsorship (mainly J-1) is widely available.US clinical experience is often preferred or required.
Pennsylvania:
A reliable state for IMG applicants, with numerous university-affiliated and community-based programs.Welcomes diverse applicants and provides strong primary care training.
California:
Though competitive, there are programs that accept IMGs, especially those with U.S. clinical experience.Visa sponsorship varies, so research each program carefully.Attractive due to its large population and underserved areas.
IMG-Friendly Family Medicine Residency Programs
International Medical Graduates (IMGs) have long contributed to the U.S. primary care workforce. Family Medicine, being one of the most IMG-inclusive specialties, offers numerous opportunities across the country. Identifying programs with a proven track record of accepting IMGs can significantly boost your match chances.
Here are some IMG-friendly Family Medicine programs based on historical match rates, visa support, and resident diversity:
Brookdale University Hospital Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY
High IMG population, strong outpatient focus, J-1/H-1B visa support.
BronxCare Health System, Bronx, NY
IMG-friendly, community-based training with academic affiliations.
Jackson Memorial Hospital / University of Miami, FL
Offers robust Family Medicine training with a supportive environment for international physicians.
Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami, FL
Welcomes IMGs, diverse patient population, strong outpatient focus.
Wayne State University / Detroit Medical Center, MI
Academic program with consistent IMG intake and urban community exposure.
University of Illinois at Chicago, IL
Academic center with a longstanding history of supporting international graduates.
Texas Tech University, El Paso & Lubbock, TX
IMG-inclusive programs offering J-1 support and hands-on experience.
Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ
Diverse faculty and patient population, well-structured curriculum, IMG-friendly.
St. Luke’s University Health Network, Bethlehem, PA
Strong reputation for supporting IMGs, community-oriented training.
Howard University Hospital, Washington, DC
Historically supportive of IMGs with a focus on underserved care.
Common Features of IMG-Friendly Family Medicine Programs
Acceptable USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK scores (some flexibility depending on the program).
Willingness to consider older year of graduation (YOG).
J-1 and sometimes H-1B visa sponsorship.
Diverse residents and faculty; inclusive, team-based culture.
Emphasis on communication skills, clinical reasoning, and dedication to primary care.
Strategies for IMGs Applying to Family Medicine Residency Programs
Maximize Your USMLE Performance:
Aim for strong Step 1 and Step 2 CK scores, typically above 225–230. Strong scores are especially important if you have an older YOG or limited U.S. experience. Step 3 is not required to match but may enhance your application, especially for H-1B visa applicants.
Gain U.S. Clinical Experience (USCE):
Seek at least 2-3 months of hands-on experience in Family Medicine, ideally at hospitals or clinics affiliated with U.S. residency programs. Direct patient interaction, EMR familiarity, and faculty evaluations are highly valued.
Obtain Strong Letters of Recommendation (LoRs):
Get LoRs from U.S.-based Family Medicine physicians or preceptors who can vouch for your clinical skills, professionalism, and teamwork. Letters from core rotations and FM attendings are more influential than generic or non-clinical letters.
Target IMG-Friendly Programs:
Use tools like FREIDA, NRMP Match Data, and residency program websites to identify IMG-welcoming programs. Focus on states and institutions that regularly sponsor visas and accept international applicants.
Tailor Your Personal Statement for Family Medicine:
Explain why you’re drawn to Family Medicine: continuity of care, preventive health, underserved populations, etc. Highlight your interpersonal skills, adaptability, and passion for comprehensive patient care.
Apply Broadly and Early:
Apply to100 programs or more depending on your competitiveness. Early application submission, ideally on ERAS opening day, maximizes interview opportunities.
Highlight Volunteer and Community Involvement:
Many FM programs value service and social responsibility. Showcase any work in public health, rural settings, community clinics, or underserved areas.
Be Ready for Interviews:
Practice answering questions about your path to Family Medicine, how you handle diverse patient populations, and how you manage continuity of care. Be prepared to discuss your U.S. clinical experience, strengths, weaknesses, and long-term goals.
Show Commitment to Family Medicine:
Programs want candidates genuinely interested in the specialty, not using it as a backup. Mention any subspecialty interests (e.g., sports medicine, geriatrics, women’s health) or long-term goals like rural practice or academic medicine.
Maintain Flexibility:
Consider applying to programs in less competitive locations, such as smaller cities or rural regions. These often provide strong training and are more likely to support international graduates.
Sample Personal Statement for Family Medicine Residency Application
A personal statement is a key component of your family medicine residency application. It allows you to communicate your story, motivations, and what makes you uniquely suited for this patient-centered specialty. A compelling statement should be authentic, structured, and clearly show your passion for family medicine.
Sample Personal Statement:
“My journey into medicine has always been driven by a desire to serve others, particularly those who face barriers to accessing care. Growing up in a small town with limited medical resources, I witnessed the profound impact a compassionate and committed family physician can have, not just on individual patients, but on entire communities. That experience planted the seed for what would eventually become a calling: a career in family medicine. During medical school in [Your Country], I found myself consistently drawn to rotations that emphasized continuity of care and whole-person medicine. I loved working in outpatient clinics where I could interact with patients of all ages and backgrounds, help manage chronic diseases, and engage in preventative care. These experiences cemented my desire to pursue family medicine, a field that aligns with my core values of service, empathy, and holistic care. To build on this interest, I completed a clinical observership at [Institution] in the United States, where I worked closely with family physicians in both urban and underserved settings. I was inspired by the breadth of their knowledge, their ability to form long-term patient relationships, and their integral role within the healthcare team. I saw firsthand how family medicine is the cornerstone of primary care and population health. Beyond clinical training, I’ve sought opportunities to grow as a future leader and educator. I’ve volunteered at community health fairs, participated in patient education campaigns, and mentored underclassmen on topics such as wellness and medical professionalism. These experiences have shaped my communication skills, cultural competence, and dedication to patient advocacy, traits I believe are essential in family medicine. As an international medical graduate, I bring a global perspective and a deep appreciation for the value of primary care in diverse communities. I’m looking for a residency program that emphasizes continuity of care, community engagement, and strong mentorship. My goal is to practice full-scope family medicine, including women’s health and preventive care, and eventually serve in a medically underserved area. I am excited to begin this next chapter in family medicine, where I can combine my clinical skills, compassion, and lifelong commitment to learning to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and communities.”
Key Elements of a Strong Family Medicine Personal Statement
Engaging Introduction:
Start with a personal story or patient encounter that illustrates your interest in comprehensive, community-based care.
Clear Motivation:
Explain why you chose family medicine and how it aligns with your professional and personal values.
Clinical and Community Experience:
Highlight any continuity clinics, outpatient work, or community service, these are key in family medicine.
Personal Qualities:
Focus on empathy, communication, cultural sensitivity, teamwork, and adaptability.
Future Goals:
Mention interests like rural medicine, geriatrics, public health, or women's health, and how you see yourself growing within the specialty.
Memorable Conclusion:
Close with a confident, sincere expression of why you’re excited to join a family medicine residency and what you hope to contribute.
Sample Letter of Recommendation for Family Medicine Residency
To the Residency Selection Committee,
I am pleased to write this letter in strong support of Ms. Maria Rahman's application to your family medicine residency program. I had the pleasure of supervising Maria during her clinical observership at [Hospital/Clinic] from [Start Date] to [End Date], where she worked directly with our family medicine team in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Maria stood out for her compassion, curiosity, and patient-centered approach. She consistently demonstrated excellent communication skills, listening attentively to patients and engaging in thoughtful discussions about diagnosis and management. Her ability to build rapport with patients of all ages, from children to elderly adults, was especially noteworthy. During a particularly busy clinic week, Maria showed great initiative by developing patient education materials in both English and Spanish, which helped bridge a gap in health literacy among our immigrant patient population. This highlighted her cultural competence, dedication to service, and proactive mindset, all essential qualities in a family physician. Maria also joined our weekly interdisciplinary team meetings and contributed meaningfully, asking questions that reflected a strong understanding of continuity care, social determinants of health, and behavioral medicine. Her natural empathy and professionalism made her a favorite among patients and staff alike. I have no doubt that Maria will thrive in a family medicine residency. She is intelligent, dedicated, and deeply committed to improving healthcare access and equity. I recommend her to your program with the highest enthusiasm and without reservation.
Sincerely
How to Prepare a Strong CV for Family Medicine Residency
Your CV should showcase a well-rounded background that includes academic achievements, clinical experience, and a commitment to service and primary care. Here's how to structure it:
Contact Information
Full name, address, phone number, professional email
Optional: LinkedIn, personal website
Education
Medical school (name, location, dates)
Relevant honors, distinctions, and GPA (if strong)
Clinical Experience
Highlight family medicine rotations, sub-internships, and electives
Include settings (urban, rural, underserved), duration, and notable experiences
Emphasize patient care, chronic disease management, preventive medicine
Community Involvement / Volunteer Experience
Health fairs, clinics, youth outreach, vaccination drives
Show your service-oriented mindset
Research Experience
Projects related to primary care, public health, or health disparities
Include your role, key findings, and any presentations/publications
Leadership and Extracurricular Activities
Peer mentorship, student organizations, tutoring
Roles that demonstrate leadership and collaboration
Publications and Presentations
Posters, case reports, or journal articles related to primary care or public health
Certifications
USMLE Scores (Step 1, Step 2 CK)
BLS/ACLS, ECFMG (for IMGs)
Skills
EMR proficiency, multilingual ability, communication and counseling skills
References
Available upon request (or list 2–3 if required)
Need help writing or reviewing your personal statement, LORs, or CV for family medicine? You can schedule a free call with one of our physician advisors HERE or browse our residency advising services HERE.
What Is the Average USMLE Step 2 CK Score for Family Medicine Residency Match in the US?
The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) plays a significant role in the residency match process, especially now that Step 1 is reported as pass/fail. For those applying to family medicine, understanding the typical Step 2 CK score range can help applicants benchmark their competitiveness and plan their application strategy accordingly.
Importance of USMLE Step 2 CK in Family Medicine
Family medicine is considered a less competitive specialty compared to surgical fields or radiology, but that doesn’t mean scores don’t matter. Program directors still heavily rely on Step 2 CK to evaluate a candidate’s clinical reasoning, medical knowledge, and readiness for residency.
According to the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) and Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) data, Step 2 CK scores are one of the top criteria used for interview invitations and applicant ranking in family medicine.
Average USMLE Step 2 CK Score for Matched Applicants
Based on recent match data, applicants who match into family medicine residency programs typically have a Step 2 CK score in the range of 220 to 245.
Competitive Range:
A score between 235–245 is considered strong for most family medicine programs.
IMG Applicants:
For international medical graduates (IMGs), a score of 235 or higher is recommended to remain competitive, particularly for university-affiliated or more selective programs.
Program-Specific Variations:
Community-based or IMG-friendly programs may accept applicants with lower scores, especially when other aspects of the application are strong.
How Step 2 CK Score Affects Match Chances
Above 255:
Highly competitive; improves chances at academic or university-based programs.
245–255:
Very strong score for family medicine; competitive at most programs, including those with academic affiliations.
235–245:
Solid and competitive; in range for the majority of programs.
225–235:
Still a viable score for matching, especially if the application includes strong clinical experience, letters, and a compelling personal statement.
Below 225:
Considered on the lower side, applicants should apply broadly, gain strong U.S. clinical experience, and focus on networking and well-rounded application elements.
Other Factors That Complement a Strong Step 2 CK Score
While Step 2 CK is an important metric, family medicine programs use a holistic approach. Factors that enhance your application include:
Clinical Experience:
Strong evaluations in core clerkships, sub-internships, and hands-on U.S. clinical experience (USCE) for IMGs.
Letters of Recommendation:
Ideally from family medicine physicians or U.S. faculty who can speak to your clinical ability and work ethic.
Personal Statement:
Should clearly express your passion for primary care, community medicine, continuity of care, and serving diverse populations.
Research & Community Involvement:
Although not mandatory, experience in quality improvement projects, public health, or community outreach can be valuable.
Interview Performance:
Strong communication skills, empathy, and professionalism are especially important in family medicine.
Do I Need to Take Step 3 to Match Into Family Medicine Residency?
Short answer: No, USMLE Step 3 is not required to match into a family medicine residency in the U.S.
However, for certain candidates, particularly IMGs, taking and passing Step 3 can improve your chances in specific situations.
When Step 3 Can Help
If you’re an IMG with an older graduation year
If you have low Step 1 or Step 2 CK scores
If you're applying for H-1B visa–sponsoring programs
Programs that sponsor H-1B visas often require applicants to pass Step 3 before offering a position. Having it completed can also show initiative, clinical maturity, and long-term planning.
Will Passing Step 3 Improve My Chances of Matching?
For IMGs
Yes, Step 3 can enhance your application by:
Demonstrating medical knowledge and clinical readiness.
Compensating for lower Step 1 or Step 2 CK scores.
Increasing eligibility for H-1B visa sponsorship.
Showing serious intent to practice long-term in the U.S.
For U.S. MD/DO Graduates
In most cases, taking Step 3 before residency is unnecessary and doesn’t provide a significant advantage unless:
You’re reapplying after a failed match cycle.
You have an extended gap in training.
Potential Downsides
It’s time-consuming and costly.
Failing can negatively impact your application.
It offers limited value for most U.S. grads.
H-1B vs. J-1 Visa for Family Medicine Residency and Why It Matters
For IMGs, choosing between an H-1B and J-1 visa can shape not only your residency journey but also your long-term career plans.
Feature | H-1B Visa | J-1 Visa |
Type | Work visa | Exchange visitor visa |
Sponsorship | Residency program/employer | ECFMG |
Step 3 Required | Yes | No |
Green Card Path | Allowed | Requires home-country return or waiver |
Visa Cap | Subject to annual cap | No cap |
Dependents | H-4 (spouse cannot work) | J-2 (spouse can work) |
Work Restrictions | Only for sponsor | Only ECFMG-approved programs |
H-1B Is Ideal If:
You’ve passed Step 3.
You want to stay in the U.S. permanently.
Your program offers H-1B sponsorship.
J-1 Is Ideal If:
You haven’t taken Step 3 yet.
You’re okay with returning to your home country or working in an underserved area post-residency.
Your program only offers J-1 visas.
Many family medicine programs are J-1 friendly, but several community and academic programs sponsor H-1Bs as well, especially those serving underserved areas with funding flexibility.
Need Help?Check out our curated list of U.S. Clinical Experience (USCE) opportunities HERE, or schedule a free advising call with one of our physician mentors HERE.
Top Factors Family Medicine Residency Program Directors Consider When Selecting Candidates for Interviews
When selecting candidates for interviews, family medicine residency program directors assess a holistic combination of academic performance, clinical experience, communication skills, and alignment with the values of primary care. For international medical graduates (IMGs), meeting these criteria with clarity and consistency is especially important.
USMLE Step Scores
Strong performance on the USMLE Step exams, especially Step 2 CK, demonstrates your clinical readiness. Since family medicine is broad and patient-facing, Step 2 CK is often emphasized more than Step 1 due to its focus on clinical knowledge, decision-making, and patient care scenarios.
Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
LORs from U.S.-based family physicians or primary care attendings are particularly impactful. The best letters highlight your commitment to comprehensive care, patient communication, professionalism, and ability to thrive in a busy outpatient or community-based setting.
U.S. Clinical Experience (USCE) in Family Medicine
Hands-on experience in family medicine, whether through electives, or externships, demonstrates your understanding of the specialty and confirms your interest. Direct patient interaction in continuity clinics, preventive care, and chronic disease management shows programs that you’re ready to practice in the U.S. healthcare system.
Personal Statement
Your personal statement should clearly explain why you’re drawn to family medicine, referencing patient encounters, mentors, or community health experiences that shaped your path. Family medicine values compassion, continuity, and service, so your statement should reflect those themes authentically.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Family medicine residency directors highly value interpersonal strengths. Being approachable, empathetic, and able to communicate effectively with patients of all backgrounds is essential. These skills are assessed both in your application and during interviews.
Academic History and Year of Graduation
More recent graduates are often preferred, especially for family medicine programs focused on continuity and up-to-date knowledge. However, strong USMLE performance, clinical experience, and evidence of continued learning can make older graduates competitive.
Research
While not a requirement, research related to community health, preventive medicine, population health, or primary care can enhance your application, especially for university-affiliated programs. It shows you’re thinking beyond the clinic and are engaged in broader health system improvement.
Fit with the Program’s Mission and Culture
Program directors want residents who align with their focus, whether it's rural medicine, urban underserved care, academic teaching, or full-spectrum family medicine. During interviews, articulate how your goals and values match the program’s mission.
Visa Status (for IMGs)
Some programs only sponsor J-1 visas, while others are open to H-1B sponsorship. Taking and passing Step 3 before interviews may improve your chances at H-1B–friendly programs.
Top Factors Family Medicine Program Directors Consider When Ranking Candidates for the Match
Securing an interview is only the first step, ranking decisions hinge on how well you perform during and after your interview, and how closely you align with the program’s goals.
Interview Performance
This is often the most decisive factor in family medicine. Program directors look for warmth, communication ability, professionalism, and a sincere commitment to the specialty. Be yourself, but come prepared: know the program, ask thoughtful questions, and express your long-term goals clearly.
Need help preparing for interviews? Check out our Family Medicine Residency Match Prep Package HERE
Clinical and Professional Competence
Programs value candidates who performed well during core rotations and demonstrated strong clinical reasoning, especially in ambulatory settings. Reliability, teamwork, adaptability, and genuine care for patients stand out during rotations and interviews alike.
Letters of Recommendation
LORs that speak to your clinical judgment, bedside manner, and collaborative skills are critical. Recommendations from U.S. physicians—particularly family medicine attendings—carry more weight for IMGs.
Need help securing strong LORs? Read our full guide to residency letters of recommendation HERE
Personal Statement & Career Goals
Programs want to see that your long-term vision aligns with theirs. Whether you’re interested in outpatient continuity care, full-spectrum family medicine, rural practice, or underserved populations, your goals should fit the program’s mission.
Team Compatibility & Program Culture
Team dynamics are crucial. Directors favor candidates who contribute positively to resident morale, support one another, and show flexibility in a dynamic healthcare environment. Your emotional intelligence and collaborative spirit can be a deciding factor.
USMLE Step Scores
Step 2 CK continues to matter even after the interview. Some programs use it as a tie-breaker when ranking candidates. A good Step 3 score can also boost your rank, particularly if you are an IMG seeking H-1B sponsorship.
Performance in Clinical Rotations
Exceptional evaluations during family medicine rotations, especially at the same institution, are strong indicators of how well you’ll fit into a program.
Demonstrated Commitment to Family Medicine
Candidates who show a clear and passionate commitment to primary care are ranked higher. Programs want to train physicians who will thrive in the specialty and potentially stay in their network or region.
Research & Scholarly Activity
If you have research, it’s a bonus, especially if it’s related to community health, health disparities, patient education, or quality improvement. Scholarly work aligned with the values of family medicine can strengthen your profile.
Want to join a community health research project? Submit your interest here HERE
Professionalism Throughout the Application Process
From emails to virtual interviews, thank-you notes, and social events, your professionalism is always on display. Being prompt, respectful, and courteous shows you’re ready for the responsibilities of residency.
Diversity and Unique Life Experiences
Family medicine values inclusivity and diverse life paths. International perspectives, leadership roles, community service, and overcoming adversity are all viewed positively.
Geographic or Institutional Ties
Programs often prioritize applicants who express interest in their location or mission, especially in rural, underserved, or regionally committed programs. If you have ties to a particular area, make sure to mention it.
Learn more about geographic preference in ERAS in our free 2026 Match Guide HERE
