The University of Louisville Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine accepts applications through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). We participate in the National Resident Matching Program and abide by all match policies. Applicants must register with both NRMP and ERAS to participate in the services of each.

2025-2026 Match positions available: 12 Categorical positions

Application process and FAQs are as follows:

1

Virtual Open House

Our virtual open house sessions will allow the opportunity to highlight our program, share important information, meet and talk with some of our staff and current residents.

2025 Virtual Open House – date TBA

2

Application Submission 

While there is no definite deadline, we strongly encourage that all applications be submitted before or soon after the opening of ERAS for programs. This match cycle, that is September 24th, 2025. 

A complete application must contain the following items:

• A minimum of 3 letters of recommendation
• Medical Student Performance Evaluation (aka Dean’s letter)
• Personal Statement
• Curriculum Vitae
• Full Medical School Transcript
• USMLE Scores (A numerical USMLE Step 2/COMLEX 2 score is required if Step 1/COMLEX 1 was taken pass/fail)

The application requirements are the same for international medical graduates. We accept J-1 visas only and do not support H1-B sponsorship.

3

Application Review

Upon receipt of your application, the Residency Selection Committee will review your credentials. We will begin reviewing applications September 24th, 2025

To ensure fairness and impartiality in our selection process, we conduct a comprehensive review of applications using a framework that highlights the attributes and strengths we seek in candidates. Our mission is to foster a culture of excellence and provide a safe space where diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives are embraced, appreciated and respected.

Our mission is to develop top-tier clinicians who deliver exceptional patient care, contribute meaningfully to their organizations and communities, foster positive relationships with colleagues and staff and mentor the next generation of healthcare professionals. We seek applicants who:

• Demonstrate strong clinical proficiency, performing at or above the median level of their cohort.
• Prioritize kindness, collaboration and teamwork, emphasizing connections with both patients and colleagues.
• Exhibit dedication to a rigorous clinical experience, marked by hard work, resilience and a positive attitude.
• Share genuine enthusiasm for anesthesiology and engage actively in learning and growing within the specialty.
• Possess critical qualities such as composure, adaptability, multitasking, problem-solving and effective decision-making.
• Bring diverse perspectives, experiences and backgrounds that enrich the department's culture and mission.
• Contribute to their communities, schools and organizations through leadership, volunteerism, or other meaningful involvement.
• Show a commitment to academic excellence and lifelong learning, positioning themselves for success in board certification and beyond.

4

Frequently Asked Residency Selection Process Questions 

How will I receive notification regarding my application status?

If you are selected for an interview, you will be invited through our online scheduling platform, Thalamus. We will send all correspondence regarding application status via e-mail using the address you provide on your ERAS application. For best results, create an e-mail account that is only to be used by ERAS and the programs to which you are applying and do not use a SPAM blocker. 

What is the USMLE and COMLEX score requirement - is there an attempt limit?

Board certification is an expected outcome for our residents. Since standardized test performance is a predictor of success on the ABA board exams we do look for first time pass success. We accept either the USMLE or the COMLEX. Our average scores for our incoming class of 2024 are: USMLE 2 - 253 and COMLEX 2 - 683.

Is there a minimum USMLE Step 2 CK score?

There are no minimum standards for these quantitative metrics. The further your USMLE score is below the average, the more difficult it will be for you to be considered for acceptance.

Do you accept Osteopathic graduates?

Yes. We are looking for exceptional candidates, whether MD or DO, with competitive credentials, who will contribute to the Department’s strength and future of our specialty.

How do signals factor into the application process?

We use signals as part of our initial application review process to determine which candidates will be invited for interviews. It is unlikely, though not impossible, that we will invite a candidate without a program signal (gold or silver) 

Once the interview invitations have been extended, all signal-related information is removed from the applications. Our interviewers conduct the interviews without any knowledge of these signals, ensuring an unbiased evaluation of each candidate’s qualifications.

While signals play a valuable role in the initial phase of our recruitment process, it’s important to note that sending a signal does not guarantee an interview invitation as we receive a higher number of signals than we have available interview slots.

What is the programs stance on home students or away rotating students signaling the program? 

The AAMC and the Society of Academic Associations of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine (SAAAPM) advise that applicants signal their most interested programs regardless of whether they are home or away rotations.

This is the most fair and equitable process for all applicant types (MD, DO and IMGs) and provides all programs that participate in receiving signals with the same information about interest level.

• Thalamus Guide to Signaling
• AAMC supplemental ERAS application

Interview Day Agenda

https://louisville.edu/medicine/departments/anesthesiology/residency/interview-day-agenda

Invitations for interviews will be sent starting the second week of October and may continue throughout the interview season. Interviews will be conducted: October 2025 through January 2026. 

Following recommendations by the American Association of Anesthesiology Core Program Directors (AACPD), we will have all virtual interviews for the 2025-2026 season. All interviews will be conducted via Thalamus. 

For individuals attending an interview, we suggest logging in 5-10 minutes before the scheduled start time in usual professional attire. Candidates should be in a quiet space with fast internet connection. Both video and audio will be used during the interviews.

The interview experience will include:

• A video presentation by our program director that will cover all the details of our program. This video will be sent to you at the beginning of the interview season so that you can watch it at your leisure and review whenever needed. 
• Before your interview, you will have the opportunity to join a virtual happy hour with our residents. This time is for candidates to meet our residents and get a true feel of our program in a more relaxed atmosphere. 
• On interview day, candidates will participate in three, 20-minute interviews with faculty and/or chief residents.