THE "OLD IMG": SOME TIPS

I always believed "Old is Gold" until I got to know that most residency programs prefer "Fresh-Out-of-Medical-School" graduates. But it was good to know that it DID NOT mean a full-stop to the oldies ;-) There is no absolute definition for an “Old IMG” in terms of age or time since clinical medicine was last practiced, rather is relative to the "cut-off" criteria of residency programs. But for practical purposes, IMGs who have been away from clinical exposure for more than 5 years should consider themselves "Old IMGs" and do the needy.

Agreed that it is tougher, but we can think of ways and means to improve chances nevertheless.

Here are some pointers for Old IMGs :

1. Latest / Current US Clinical Experience is certainly a priority.

2. But first Strive for Impressive USMLE scores - they are the biggest support you have !

3. Good Step 3 Scores reflect ability to manage patients as a resident in US setting.

4. Apply not just to the 'categorical' program, but also the preliminary and transitional programs, if available. Read more about them Here.

5. It is important to realize that while we only think of that ONE Residency position for ourselves, Program Directors are busy thinking more on the lines on building a strong, friendly "Resident Team". Which means, to some extent, they would like to see a good complementary mix of credentials, qualifications, variety and maturity that makes a team vibrant !

So on your Personal Statement, sell yourself as a matured decision maker and someone who has a good understanding of people and teams ! Tell them why it would be great to have on the team :-) Remember the wise old owl ? ;-)

6. Good personal relations skills with program directors at the interview, via emails, and when you contact residency programs initially too etc.

7. If a Prematch offer comes by, Old IMGs are probably better off accepting one...but of course, they would know better based on how many interview calls they get.