[rsoody]

Hi guys,

I did read a related topic before, but wanted to explain my situation here..

I am an IMG, and as of now have 2 LOR's from my home country (India)..
They have been uploaded, BUT my 3rd and 4th LOR's from the US just reached ERAS today..

So, I'm assuming that they would be uploaded in 2-3 weeks time, which is about the 6-13th of September..

My USMLE scores are decent at 242/255/CS pass-1st attempt..

My question is-
Should I apply on the 1st of September, or wait till my LOR's are uploaded..

Or, should I apply to some programs early, but apply to my best programs once they are uploaded..

Yes, I will reserve a slot beforehand, but I don't want them to consider my application incomplete..

Any help would be much appreciated.. Please help

 

[rasheed]

Wait until September 10 or mention is in PS

They are currently scanning LoRs received on August 13th.
This means that your LoR will be scanned into ERAS most probably by September 10th.
I'd say wait until that date and then apply.

Another option is to mention your two USCEs in your personal statement, this the programs will know that you have done those experiences and they'll ask you to bring the LoRs to the IV and they understand the long queue in the ERAS scanning.

 

[rsoody]

Thanks a lot Rasheed.. That sounds like a fair plan..

a) Do you think I'll loose a lot of calls because of the late application?

b) How much value does reserving the LOR's slots do for the program to deem my application complete? I have heard that Program coordinators and Chief residents don't read the LOR's before the interview..

Thanks again..

and anybody know of programs which require only 2 Lor's, I could apply there..

 

[rasheed]

Answers

Answer to a)
I don't think you lose many chances. Most programs do not finish their short-listing job before September 15 or even 20.

Answer to b)
Yes, that's true. Many PDs do not actually read the application and documents thoroughly until the interview day or just few minutes before you enter the IV room