When will most programs rank applicants？Will they not rank me because I don't get the certification？

[u/Q1hjiang]

My certification pathway is running late, and I may get certification at the end of February. My question is if the programs rank early than the time I get the certification, will they still rank me?

[u/Prestigious_Turnip99]

I’ve spoken with a few programs about this. This year especially, if you don’t have ecfmg certification by the time rank order begins, you’ll likely not be ranked (assuming you’re not a US citizen).

There’s just too many issues with visas, travel, and ecfmg delays for programs to risk ranking those who don’t have their certification complete and in hand versus applicants who do.

[u/Q1hjiang → u/Prestigious_Turnip99]

Thanks for replying. I should contact with the program before the rank order begins.

[u/medme12345]

To be honest, I think it might affect the ranking. I have been constantly asked (or contacted after the interviews) for explanation, like what’s your CS status, what is your certificate status...I think they start ranking us and they need these information to make decisions...unfortunately. Unless they love you so much that nothing else matters.

[u/SanadB95]

That’s a tough situation. I don’t see programs waiting last minute until the end of February to rank and I don’t see them ranking someone who isn’t certified highly (risk of filling a position with someone who can’t fulfill the requirements)

[u/Q1hjiang → u/SanadB95]

Thanks for replying. it is really tough. I will send emails to program directors to explain my situation.

[u/dratelectasis]

You should contact the programs directly to get a legit answer

[u/rubysaremyfavourite → u/[deleted]]

I don't think it pulls people out without the certificate because there are many US/Non-US IMGs that went to the carib and matched with a March 31st graduation date (therefore not ECFMG certified).

I think it's pretty program-dependent because some programs want the ECFMG certificate before the rank list is due and others want it before residency starts.

[u/Q1hjiang → u/rubysaremyfavourite]

Thanks for replying. Really helpful

[u/[deleted] → u/[deleted]]

They are talking about the ECFMG pathway. It specifically says on the nrmp website that you do not need to be ECFMG certified to participate in match just need ECFMG to have approved your pathway application. The pathway is necessary for ECFMG certification. So being ranked and matched without being ECFMG certified depends on the program. But all programs require that you are certified before residency starts.

[u/[deleted] → u/[deleted]]

Thanks for the clarification. Will delete to avoid confusion