When International Medical Graduates (IMGs) are considering where to apply for their US-based residency programs, they often have their own personal preferences, yet a look at trends as to which locations offer the best opportunities for a successful match is key. Having a strong, well-developed ERAS application is paramount, but a key question is where best to send that application. A savvy IMG should conduct in-depth background research to learn which locations offer the best prospects for a good match because targeting the application in this way will increase the chances of garnering an interview. The simple fact is that some US states are more amenable to accepting IMGs than others and, thus, are considered “IMG Friendly.”
Every year since 1952, the National Residency Match Program® (NRMP®) issues a report that is full of useful matching data on trends and statistics. The more candidates understand these trends and statistics, the more effective the targeting of their application will be.
According to the 2019 NRMP report, the following states were listed as the top ten most IMG friendly: NY, MI, FL, PA NJ, TX …