Resources

Residency Specialties

Competitiveness tiers, Step 2 benchmarks, IMG match rates, and strategy notes for every major specialty — written by people who read the files.

Dermatology

Highly Competitive

One of the most competitive specialties in the match, with approximately 550 positions annually. Programs heavily weight Step 2 scores, clerkship performance, and letters from dermatologists.

Step 2: 252–265IMG-Competitive

Orthopedic Surgery

Highly Competitive

Among the most competitive surgical specialties, with approximately 850 positions. Strong emphasis on both academic metrics and demonstrated hands-on aptitude.

Step 2: 252–265IMG-Competitive

Diagnostic Radiology

Competitive

A competitive but approachable specialty with strong lifestyle characteristics. Academic centers focus on research and metrics; community programs prioritize fit and clinical performance.

Step 2: 245–258IMG-Competitive

General Surgery

Competitive

A demanding specialty with strong emphasis on clinical performance and demonstrated commitment to surgery. Programs range from competitive academic centers to accessible community programs.

Step 2: 242–258IMG-Competitive

Emergency Medicine

Competitive

A high-energy specialty with strong applicant demand. Programs prioritize clinical skills, temperament, and genuine interest in emergency settings over research productivity.

Step 2: 242–256IMG-Competitive

Anesthesiology

Competitive

A procedurally focused specialty with competitive but achievable benchmarks for most qualified applicants. Strong lifestyle characteristics attract high application volumes.

Step 2: 242–256IMG-Competitive

Internal Medicine

Moderately Competitive

The largest specialty in the match with excellent opportunities for both US and international graduates. Wide range from highly competitive academic centers to accessible community programs.

Step 2: 232–252IMG-Friendly

Obstetrics & Gynecology

Moderately Competitive

A moderately competitive surgical specialty with strong emphasis on clinical performance in OB/GYN rotations and demonstrated commitment to the field.

Step 2: 237–253IMG-Competitive

Neurology

Moderately Competitive

A moderately competitive specialty with notable IMG representation and strong intellectual culture. Academic and community programs have meaningfully different selection criteria.

Step 2: 235–252IMG-Friendly

Psychiatry

Moderately Competitive

A growing specialty with excellent opportunities for both US and international graduates. Strong interpersonal skills and genuine commitment to mental health care are highly valued.

Step 2: 232–248IMG-Friendly

Pediatrics

Moderately Competitive

An accessible specialty with strong IMG representation and emphasis on clinical skills and interpersonal aptitude. Children's hospital programs are more competitive than general pediatrics programs.

Step 2: 230–248IMG-Friendly

Family Medicine

Less Competitive

The most accessible specialty in the match with the largest number of positions and strong opportunities for all applicant types including IMGs.

Step 2: 220–245IMG-Friendly

Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

Less Competitive

A growing specialty with excellent work-life balance and expanding scope. Program sizes are small, making personal fit and demonstrated interest particularly important.

Step 2: 228–248IMG-Friendly

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