University of Texas Southwestern--Austin Neurology Program Application Process

The UT Southwestern, Austin Neurology Residency Program has 3 positions available each year. Our program is advanced, meaning all applicants are required to complete a preliminary medicine year before entering neurology. We are fortunate to have 3 preliminary medicine spots set aside for neurology residents; however, all candidates will interview with Internal Medicine and must rank the Austin Internal Medicine program, or any ACGME-accredited Preliminary program, for their internship.

We participate in the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP) and adhere to its policies and principles. Applications are to be submitted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), so we DO NOT accept paper applications or applications sent to us via email. Applications for each academic year will be accepted until November 30th. The deadline may be extended under special circumstances. Contact the Program Coordinator to request an extension.

Please make sure the following information is included with your ERAS application:

• A letter from the Dean of your medical school
• Minimum of 3 letters of recommendation
• Medical school transcripts
• USMLE or COMLEX transcripts for both parts I and II
• ECFMG certificate (applies to International Medical Graduates only)

IMPORTANT: All documentation must be submitted prior to rank list submission.

The program will review all applications received. Interviews will be granted on a competitive basis, and you will be contacted via email to schedule an interview.

A competitive application would contain the following:

• An impressive CV that includes volunteer service, academic awards/achievements, extracurricular activities, etc.
• A strong medical school transcript
• A USMLE/COMLEX scores > or = 90 on both Steps 1 & 2
• Outstanding letters of recommendation
• A well-written and unforgettable personal statement

International Medical Graduates (IMGs)

Obtaining a residency slot in a United States GME system is a multi-step process that begins with certification through the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). ECFMG certification ensures United States GME programs that physicians trained outside the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico are qualified and eligible to enter residency training. Additional information regarding this process can be obtained from the American Medical Association and/or ECFMGs websites.

IMGs must be extremely competitive and meet the following minimum requirements:

• Must have graduated from medical school within the past 5 years
• Must have USMLE scores > or = 90 on both Steps 1 & 2 within 2 tries
• Must have at least one letter of recommendation from a US physician
• Must have a J-1 Visa, no exception, prior to rank list submission
• US clinical or research experience preferred

Observerships/Externships

The Department of Neurology does not offer observerships/externships. Since an "observer" is a physician who is not in a US program and has no license or permit, the institution as well as governmental agencies, have set many restrictions and limitations on what an observer is legally allowed to do. This coupled with the fact that the experience does not constitute medical education and cannot be used as evidence of clinical experience; the department does not see any benefit and has chosen not to offer observerships.

Acting Internships (AIs)

We are always happy to have American medical students from outside universities visit our program. AIs offer a great opportunity to experience neurology first-hand. It is also a great way to research programs that you are considering for residency. If you are interested in doing an AI in Neurology, please contact the UTMB Office of Regional Medical Education at (512) 324-7860.

Interview Process

The night before the interview we will have an informal dinner with the residents. This allows for a relaxed environment to ask questions about life as a resident and any other questions you may have for them. Spouses and/or family members are welcome to join us for dinner.

The interview process includes a meeting with the Program Director, and interviews with the Program Director and other Neurology faculty. In addition to meeting the faculty, your schedule will include Morning Lecture, Inpatient Rounds, and a tour of the neurology facilities. The day will also include lunch with the residents and faculty. It is important to us that applicants have a chance to meet the people they will potentially be working with during residency.

We will be more than happy to provide all applicants with one night's lodging. Please let the Program Coordinator know when you schedule our interview that you will require hotel accommodations.