2026 Residency Match timeline. Learn key ERAS and NRMP deadlines, SOAP strategies, and tips to secure your residency spot.
The residency match process is a pivotal journey for medical students, requiring meticulous planning, adherence to deadlines, and a clear understanding of the ERAS® (Electronic Residency Application Service) and NRMP® (National Resident Matching Program) systems. For the 2026 Residency Match, staying ahead of critical dates can make the difference between securing your dream program and navigating the stressful Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP). In this comprehensive guide, we break down the 2026 Residency Match timeline, highlighting key milestones, Electronic Residency Application Service submission strategies, and NRMP registration tips to optimize your success.
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Understanding the 2026 Residency Match Timeline
The residency match process spans nearly a year, beginning in June 2025 and concluding in May 2026. Below, we outline the critical phases and dates you need to know, along with actionable advice to stay organized.
2026 Residency Match Timeline
| Date | Event | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| June 4, 2025 | 2026 Match Season Begins | Opens at 9:00 a.m. ET. Applicants register for MyERAS® accounts. |
| June 25, 2025 | ERAS Token Available for Purchase | Tokens ($165) distributed via medical school’s Designated Dean’s Office. |
| September 3, 2025 | MyERAS® Submissions Open | Applicants can submit applications to programs starting at 9:00 a.m. ET. |
| September 15, 2025 | NRMP Match Registration Opens | 12:00 p.m. EDT. Create your R3 account on the NRMP website. |
| September 24, 2025 | Programs Begin Reviewing Applications | 9:00 a.m. ET. MSPEs and applications accessible via PDWS. |
| January 30, 2026 | NRMP Standard Registration Deadline | 11:59 p.m. EST. Late registration (with fee) ends February 13. |
| February 2, 2026 | Ranking Opens | 12:00 p.m. EST. Applicants/programs submit Rank Order Lists (ROLs). |
| March 4, 2026 | Rank Order List Certification Deadline | 9:00 p.m. ET. No late submissions accepted. Double-check program codes! |
| March 16, 2026 | Match Day | 12:00 p.m. ET. Results released via NRMP portal. Unmatched applicants enter SOAP. |
| March 17, 2026 | SOAP Application Review Begins | Programs start reviewing SOAP applications; unmatched applicants can apply. |
| March 19, 2026 | SOAP Rounds 1–3 | Rounds run from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. EDT. Offers released at set intervals. |
| March 20, 2026 | SOAP Results Released | 12:00 p.m. ET. Final SOAP offers distributed to unmatched applicants. |
| May 31, 2026 | 2026 Match Season Ends | MyERAS® access closes at 5:00 p.m. ET. |
Phase 1: ERAS Application Launch (June 2025)
June 4, 2025: ERAS Season Begins
At 9 a.m. ET, the 2026 match season officially opens. This marks the start of the application cycle, allowing applicants to register for MyERAS® accounts.
Key Tip: Use this time to research programs, update your CV, and identify letter writers.
June 25, 2025: ERAS Tokens Available for Purchase
Applicants must purchase the token ($165 in 2025) to access the MyERAS platform.
Why It Matters: Without a token, you cannot submit applications. Secure yours early to avoid delays.
Phase 2: Application Submission (September 2025)
September 3, 2025: MyERAS Submissions Begin
Starting at 9 a.m. ET, applicants can submit applications to residency programs. Programs receive applications only after September 24, but early submission ensures your materials are queued for review.
Pro Tip: Finalize your personal statement, MSPE (Medical Student Performance Evaluation), and letters of recommendation (LoRs) well before this date.
September 15, 2025: NRMP Match Registration Opens
At 12:00 PM EDT, the NRMP R3 system opens for registration. Create your account early ($85 for applicants) and familiarize yourself with the portal.
Key Insight: NRMP is a separate entity. Completing its registrations is mandatory to participate in the Match.
September 24, 2025: Programs Begin Reviewing Applications
Residency programs gain access to applications and MSPEs at 9 a.m. ET via the Program Director’s WorkStation (PDWS).
Strategy: Ensure your application is error-free and compelling by this date. Interviews are often extended shortly after reviews begin.
Phase 3: Interview Season (October–February 2026)
Programs send out interview invites and meet candidates virtually or in person. Quick responses, professional communication, and solid prep are key.
Pro Tip:
Turn on email/phone alerts—some interview spots fill in minutes!
Phase 4: NRMP Deadlines & Ranking (January–March 2026)
January 30, 2026: NRMP Standard Registration Deadline
The deadline to register for the 2026 Match is 11:59 PM EST. Late registration (with an added fee) ends February 13, but missing this cutoff risks disqualification.
Critical Reminder: Confirm your NRMP registration status well in advance.
February 2, 2026: Ranking Opens
At 12:00 PM EST, applicants and programs can start submitting Rank Order Lists (ROLs).
Ranking Strategy: Prioritize programs based on fit, location, and career goals. Use the “2-3-2 Rule”: 2 “reach,” 3 “target,” and 2 “safety” programs.
March 4, 2026: Rank Order List Certification Deadline
All ROLs must be finalized by 9:00 p.m. ET. Late submissions are not accepted.
Pro Tip: Certify your list 48 hours early to avoid technical glitches. Double-check program codes!
Phase 5: Match Week & SOAP (March 2026)
March 16, 2026: Match Day
At 12:00 PM ET, applicants discover if they’ve matched via the NRMP portal. Celebrate if you’ve matched—or prepare for SOAP if not.
March 17–20, 2026: SOAP Process
- March 17: Unmatched applicants can apply to SOAP-eligible programs.
- March 19–20: SOAP rounds occur, with offers released at 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. ET daily.
- March 20: SOAP results are available at 12:00 p.m. ET.
SOAP Survival Guide: Update your application immediately, secure advisor support, and practice rapid interview responses.
Phase 6: Post-Match Wrap-Up (May 2026)
May 31, 2026: ERAS Season Ends
The 2026 ERAS cycle closes at 5 p.m. ET.
Next Steps: Prepare for residency orientation, licensing exams, and relocation.
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