Explore top residency application systems—ERAS, SF Match, Military Match & more—to find the best fit for your medical specialty journey.
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Choosing the right residency application and match system is one of the most important steps in a medical graduate’s journey to becoming a licensed physician in the United States. With multiple application portals and matching processes available depending on the specialty, it can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the five major residency application and match systems: ERAS + NRMP, SF Match, ResidencyCAS, Central App, and Military Match — and how to determine which one is right for you.
Whether you’re an IMG (International Medical Graduate), U.S. graduate, or a military-bound physician, this blog post is your roadmap to navigating the residency application process successfully.
1. ERAS (Electronic Residency Application Service) + NRMP (National Resident Matching Program)
Used For:
- Family Medicine
- Internal Medicine
- Emergency Medicine
- Pediatrics
- Psychiatry
- General Surgery
- Most ACGME-accredited and combined programs
The ERAS + NRMP combo is the most widely used residency application and match system in the U.S. Administered by the AAMC, ERAS allows applicants to apply to ACGME-accredited residency programs, while NRMP handles the matching process through its algorithm-based system.
Why Choose ERAS + NRMP?
- Standardized across most specialties
- Familiar process for U.S. and IMG applicants alike
- Centralized application document delivery
- Works with MyERAS, LoRs, MSPEs, and USMLE score uploads
Pro Tip: If you’re applying to Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, or Psychiatry, ERAS is your go-to system for residency applications.
ERAS 2026 Residency Match Timeline
2. SF Match
Used For:
- Ophthalmology
- Plastic Surgery (Independent programs)
The San Francisco Match (SF Match) is a separate system from ERAS and is primarily used for early match specialties like Ophthalmology and certain Plastic Surgery programs. SF Match operates earlier than NRMP, so you’ll need to start preparing your application materials much sooner.
Why Choose SF Match?
- Specialty-specific application and timeline
- Tailored interface for Ophthalmology and Independent Plastic Surgery pathways
- Allows early planning and program-specific targeting
Pro Tip: If you’re planning an Ophthalmology residency or Independent Plastic Surgery, the SF Match should be your primary application system.
3. ResidencyCAS (Council of Residency Directors Application System)
Used For:
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Emergency Medicine (selected programs)
- Combined EM specialties
ResidencyCAS is an emerging application platform being adopted by a growing number of programs that value holistic review and streamlined processing. While it doesn’t replace ERAS completely, it is used by selected programs, especially in EM and OB/GYN.
Why Choose ResidencyCAS?
- Offers a modern, flexible application process
- Focuses on equitable, competency-based evaluation
- Preferred by programs looking beyond just board scores
Pro Tip: Use ResidencyCAS for specific OB/GYN and Emergency Medicine programs that prioritize diversity and holistic review in residency selection.
Central App
Used For:
- Plastic Surgery (Integrated) – FULLY transitioned
- Select Anesthesiology, Urology, and Neurology programs
The Central Application Service (Central App) is gaining popularity in specialties seeking more specialty-specific application processes. Plastic Surgery (Integrated) programs have completely transitioned to this platform, making it a must for any applicant targeting this field.
Why Choose Central App?
- Plastic Surgery (Integrated) programs now exclusively use this system
- Designed for specialty customization and streamlined documentation
- Focused on competency-based and specialty-tailored evaluations
Pro Tip: If you’re aiming for an Integrated Plastic Surgery residency, Central App is now the only application system you’ll need.
5. Military Match
Used For:
- All specialties for military applicants (e.g., OB/GYN, EM, Surgery)
The Military Match, run through the Joint Services Graduate Medical Education Board (JSGMEB), serves medical graduates committed to military service. This system operates on its own timeline and eligibility criteria, and it includes branches like the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Why Choose Military Match?
- Exclusive for applicants with military commitments (HPSP, USUHS)
- Ensures placement within military healthcare systems
- Different match timeline from civilian systems
Pro Tip: If you’re in a military medical pathway, the Military Match is your dedicated route to a career in uniformed service medicine.
How to Choose the Right Residency Application System?
Know Your Specialty
Each match system caters to different specialties. Identifying your specialty early helps you focus on the right platform.
Watch the Timelines
Some systems like SF Match and Military Match operate on earlier timelines than NRMP. Stay ahead with a timeline calendar.
Prepare Specific Documents
Each platform may require different formats or types of documents (e.g., custom personal statements, letters of recommendation).
Pro Tip:
Create a checklist for each system you plan to apply through — especially if you’re applying across multiple systems (like SF Match + ERAS).
Final Thoughts: One Match, Many Paths!
The path to residency doesn’t follow a single road. Depending on your specialty, goals, and background, your application journey might take different directions. What’s most important is being informed about your options and planning early.
Whether it’s ERAS + NRMP for Internal Medicine or Central App for Integrated Plastic Surgery, every system has its strengths. Use this knowledge to make strategic decisions and maximize your chances of a successful match.
Ready to Apply? Let Medvily Guide You!
Medvily offers a complete suite of services including:
- Clinical Electives
- Observerships & Externships
- Clinical Research
- Residency Application Support
- Mock Interviews & IV Prep
📩 Email: contact@medvily.com
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