SOAP 2026 timeline, key dates, and tips to navigate Match Week and secure an unfilled residency position.
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The Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP) is a critical lifeline for residency applicants who go unmatched or partially matched during the Main Residency Match®. As we approach SOAP 2026, it’s essential for eligible candidates to understand the schedule, rules, and procedures to navigate Match Week with confidence and clarity.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the SOAP 2026 timeline, including key dates, what to expect, and tips to maximize your chances of matching into a residency position.
What Is SOAP?
The Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP) allows unmatched and partially matched residency applicants to apply for unfilled positions during Match Week. Managed by the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), SOAP ensures a fair and organized process for applicants and residency programs alike.
Key SOAP 2026 Dates & Timeline
Let’s walk through the SOAP 2026 schedule, step-by-step, to help you prepare.
March 16, 2026 – Match Status Notification and SOAP Access Begins
- 🕙 10:00 AM EDT: Applicants receive their Match Status via email and the NRMP R3® system. You’ll find out whether you are fully matched, partially matched, or unmatched.
- If you are SOAP-eligible, you will gain access to the List of Unfilled Programs in the R3 system, under the SOAP tab.
- 🔑 Tip: Check both email and R3 as early as possible to plan your next steps swiftly.
March 16, 2026 – Application Preparation Begins
- 🕚 11:00 AM EDT: SOAP 2026-eligible applicants may begin preparing applications to unfilled programs. Each application service (e.g., ERAS) will display unfilled programs accepting SOAP applications.
- Only apply to programs listed in the SOAP section of the R3 system – eligibility is strictly enforced.
- 🚫 Important: Applicants and their representatives may not contact any programs directly. Programs will initiate communication if interested.
March 17, 2026 – Programs Begin Reviewing Applications
- 🕗 8:00 AM EDT: Programs start reviewing applications and may begin reaching out to applicants for interviews.
- Applicants can continue submitting applications and preparing for quick interviews.
- 🗣️ Pro Tip: Stay close to your phone and check your email regularly — quick response times can make a difference!
March 19, 2026 – SOAP Offer Rounds Begin
SOAP offers are extended over four distinct rounds. You must act quickly in each round to accept or reject offers.
✅ SOAP Round 1
- ⏰ 9:00 AM EDT: Applicants receive Round 1 offers in the R3 system.
- ⏰ 11:00 AM EDT: Deadline to accept or reject Round 1 offers.
- The List of Unfilled Programs is updated after the round closes.
✅ SOAP Round 2
- ⏰ 12:00 PM EDT: Round 2 offers released.
- ⏰ 2:00 PM EDT: Deadline to respond to offers.
- Updated list of unfilled programs follows.
✅ SOAP Round 3
- ⏰ 3:00 PM EDT: Round 3 offers posted.
- ⏰ 5:00 PM EDT: Deadline for Round 3 accept/reject.
✅ SOAP Round 4
- ⏰ 6:00 PM EDT: Final SOAP offers released.
- ⏰ 8:00 PM EDT: Last deadline to accept or reject offers.
March 19, 2026 – SOAP Ends
- 🕘 9:00 PM EDT: SOAP officially ends.
- The final List of Unfilled Programs is released, including positions not filled through SOAP or those not participating.
- From this point forward, applicants can freely contact unfilled programs to express interest.
- 📧 Strategy Tip: Have your updated CV and cover letter templates ready to reach out to programs immediately after SOAP ends.
March 20, 2026 – Match Day
- 🕛 12:00 PM EDT: Match Day! All applicants receive their final Match Results via email and the R3 system.
- Medical schools across the country hold Match Day ceremonies, celebrating the start of your medical career.
- NRMP also releases Advance Data Tables with statistics and trends from the Match.
- 🎉 Congratulations in advance to all who match — whether through the Main Match or SOAP!
How to Prepare for SOAP 2026
SOAP 2026 can be intense, but with preparation, you can optimize your chances:
✅ 1. Confirm SOAP Eligibility Early
Log into the NRMP R3 system and confirm your SOAP status. If you’re unsure, check the NRMP SOAP Policies or reach out to their help center.
✅ 2. Research Programs
Once you access the List of Unfilled Programs, prioritize programs based on your specialty preference, qualifications, and visa requirements (if applicable).
✅ 3. Craft Tailored Applications
Prepare customized personal statements and program-specific documents. Recycle your ERAS content efficiently but avoid generic applications.
✅ 4. Be Available and Responsive
SOAP moves quickly. Be ready for interviews at short notice and answer all communication promptly.
✅ 5. Have a Plan B
If you don’t match during SOAP, the final unfilled list gives you one more opportunity. Don’t lose hope — many applicants secure positions post-SOAP.
FAQs
How many applicants match through SOAP each year?
The number of applicants who match through SOAP varies annually, but typically thousands of residency positions are filled through the program. For example, in recent years, over 6,000 unfilled positions were made available during SOAP, and approximately 3,000–4,000 unmatched applicants successfully matched into those roles. The exact figures depend on the number of unfilled programs after the Main Match and the pool of SOAP-eligible applicants. The NRMP publishes official data each year in the Advance Data Tables following Match Day.
Final Thoughts
SOAP 2026 is your second chance — and for thousands of applicants, it’s the beginning of a rewarding residency journey. Understanding the timeline, preparing well, and staying resilient will set you apart during this fast-paced process.
Mark your calendars, gather your application materials, and get ready for Match 2026!
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