Do Programs KNOW....

Chee68-

I think the best way to conceptualize applying to a program with both a five and a six year (research) track is to think of it as applying to two independent programs. This is how the match is set up, each track will have it's own application number when you enter your rank list. If the program has two separate identification numbers, then you are applying to each of these tracks indepedently and they cannot move you from one to the other. An example of this system is the Unversity of Maryland who has two separate ranking numbers.

If you feel that you would be disappointed if you opened your letter on March 18th and realized you were doing an additional research year, then I would advise against ranking the six-year track. Instead, I would rank only the five-year track.

A few programs, however, only have one ranking number. An example of this is UCLA. All six of their positions fall under one rank number. During the PGY2 year, the school then decides which two residents will do an additional research year during their PGY3 year.

I hope this helps and good luck in three weeks.
El-Blanco

yeah, that's pretty much how i thought it worked. thanks for the input. I guess in general i was just wondering if a program has any way of knowing if you ranked them for both 5-yr and 6-yr. (the programs with 2 separate match #'s). They shouldn't know....