The Match Process and SOAP

Those applying for residency training in the United States do so by participating in The Match, an annual application process for medical graduates seeking residency training positions. Preparing for The Match first requires a knowledge of what field of medicine you would like to apply, followed by an understanding of the application process, required documents, and how to prepare a complete and compelling application ready for the start of the application season. This chapter aims to provide the reader an overview of identifying specialties to apply to, steps leading up to submitting an application, what to expect during the interview season until Match results, and the start of residency training.