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I failed the cs, what are my chances?

8K views 7 replies 5 participants last post by  Sabio 
#1 ·
I have lately received my CS scores and I failed the communication skills part. I am an IMG and I had 99/238 and 92/224 in step 1 and CK respectively. Since there's no time to redo the CS and apply for 2011 match, my best shot is to apply for 2012 match after passing the CS of course. But when I took a look at the residency programs I saw that more than 80% require a first attempt pass in step 1 and step 2 to consider the application, and the programs that do not follow this rule always mention that the chances of those who pass the exams from the first time is better.
I don't want to waste another year of my life for a false hope, do you think I might have a fair chance, or should I find another plan and forget about the US???
 
#3 ·
Do Not Despair

Dear DrSeddik,

Many applicants (specially IMGs) do apply with CS second attempt. That's not a very big issue. Specially when we consider your high Step 1 and CK scores.

Yes, most programs do mention that they want first attempt pass but what is the reality? the reality most of them eventually accept such candidates because not every program will get perfect fresh American grads with super high scores and so they turn their faces in October to candidates such as you.

I'd say you apply this September. Apply to 50 programs (I don't want to say more so that you don't spend too much money on it).

Apply to Psychiatry and Family Medicine and Internal Medicine. Focus on IMG friendly community programs and avoid big university names.

Once you are in the system then it doesn't really matter whether you are in "low profile" program somewhere in New York or in a prestigious university, because you'll find your way later on into fellowships no matter where you get your residency.

Prepare very well for your next CS attempt. Take classes and practice with students who passed or buy a commercial course.

You have been a wonderful writer in our forums and it really hurts us to see abandoning this dream.

Am not just boosting you. I seriously think you do have a chance.
 
#4 ·
In addition

In addition to what Lee told you I suggest you work on getting observerships and externships in states like Ohio, New York, New Jersey, or Illinois.
Once they know you and you make good connections you will have very high chances to get into their residencies.
I know someone with similar story, high Step 1 and CK scores and passed the CS from the second attempt and he was able to get into FM residency after he's done externships with them.
It might take time and dedication and could be quite costly but you'll ultimately be paid off when you get into residency.
 
#7 ·
Thank you all for the informative and great replies. Of course it is very heart breaking to see a 2 year work, a life dream, and all the money spent go away in one silly mistake.
I have started sending e mails as Sabio said, and it is working very well . I still have one question, can I (I mean by the general ERAS rules) apply to any program if I still did not pass the CS?
 
#8 ·
Yes, definitely

can I (I mean by the general ERAS rules) apply to any program if I still did not pass the CS?
Yes, definitely you can apply.
In fact most of AMGs and many of IMGs start applying without the CS pass in hand and most programs say "we need you to pass the CS by the time of ranking". Rank Order Listing is having its deadline in late February.
 
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