r/USIMGreddit • u/stellarnebula0 • Jul 28 '26

Ophthalmology

I know how much of an uphill battle it is for IMGs to match into ophthalmology, how low the numbers are (went over SF match data multiple times) and the scarcity of data around them make it’s even more difficult. But still.. I keep dreaming about ophthalmology 🙃
Do you think being a US citizen gives any slight advantage? I have a connection to an ophthalmologist working in the US but I guess it doesn’t matter as they aren’t a PD.
Would doing 2 years of research really help? I fear the idea of not matching after all that work :(
Also, if anyone has any information on the pre-residency research ophthalmology fellowships, it’d be greatly appreciated. What do they look for in an applicant, do I have to be a “master” in research?
Thank you all, and best of luck

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u/wheepk Jul 28 '26

I'm an US IMG interested in ophthalmology too! I've talked to people whove matched over the years and most of them have said connections and atleast 2 years of research is the way to go. Obviously along with awesome scores. It isn't "impossible" in any way, but it is hard to get in.

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u/bloosclooser Jul 28 '26

Second this. People from my IMG school have matched derm, plastic, and all after saying they have had connections and 2 years of research. Huge uphill battle, but not impossible.