Hello and thank you for your interest in the Internal Medicine/Pediatrics Combined Residency Program at The University of Oklahoma! Please see below for answers to our most frequently asked questions. We know how stressful it can be to go through residency interviews, especially virtually, so hopefully these FAQ's will put you at ease.
Interview Specifics:
When will OU interview residency applicants? Fridays in late October to mid January.
How will applicants schedule interviews? Our program strictly uses Thalamus to schedule interviews so keep an eye out for an email from Thalamus to do so.
How long will the interview last? Approximately 4-5 hours. We will also have an informal resident / applicant Meet and Greet the night before, lasting approximately one hour.
What should I wear? Dress professionally and comfortably. Feel very free to personalize your location/background if desired to share more about yourself, your interests and your passions.
Should I interview early to show "interest" or interview late to "not be forgotten"? Schedule interviews at your convenience. The timing of an interview has ZERO relevance to our decision making.
Program Culture:
How can I learn about the culture of the program virtually? We will provide opportunities for you to be with residents in private/informal settings with ample Q & A time. The candor will be quite revealing.
Can I talk to a resident currently in the program to help me decide on whether or not to apply? Of course! Send us an email at gray-rivera@ouhsc.edu with your request, including if you have a preference of speaking with a resident of a particular training level, gender, family status, ethnicity, religion, hometown, med school, professional interest, etc.. While we won't ask you many of these personal / demographic details, we understand the critical importance of both diversity and feeling like you fit in - so you should feel free to ask away!
ERAS:
Is there a cut-off for years since graduation? We prefer that you make application within 2 years of graduation from your respective medical school, however we take all information into account when reviewing your application. We encourage anyone who is interested to apply!
How many letters of recommendation are required? We encourage a total of three recommendation letters, preferably from people who know you well.
USMLE / COMLEX:
Is there a maximum number of attempts you accept for USMLE / COMLEX? You must pass your exams by the 3rd attempt. After 3 failed attempts, you cannot get licensed in the State of Oklahoma. This is a state requirement and not specific to the University of Oklahoma.
Do you have a minimum score requirement? We do not have a standard requirement for USMLE Step scores or COMLEX level scores. We look at every application in a holistic manner. Scores are taken into consideration, along with all other information included in your application.
Is Step 2 CK or Level 2 CE score required at time of application? We would like to see USMLE 2-CK or COMLEX level 2 CE scores as early as possible. As a general rule of thumb, try to take these exams as early as you can.
International Applicants:
Do you accept International Medical Graduates? We accept and encourage international medical graduates to apply to our program. As part of your application, and as with all applicants, help us understand what appeals to you about our program / Oklahoma City.
What type of visas can you sponsor for International Medical Graduates? The University of Oklahoma only sponsors the J-1 Visa. Should you be accepted to our program, you will need to establish a current J-1 Visa before starting your Intern Orientation. Orientation is in June, before your intern year officially starts in July (usually July 1st).
Do you require an ECFMG Certificate to interview? The ECFMG certificate is not required to receive an interview, but is required in order to start your residency. The Education Office and the GME office must receive this before your residency begins.
Are there U.S. clinical experience requirements (for IMG’s) to apply? No. The University of Oklahoma does not require any clinical experience in the United States before making application to our Residency Program.