A review of selection criteria for ophthalmology training in the Western world.

Abstract

Background: To (a) analyse, compare and learn from the global variations in ophthalmology training applicant selection criteria, specifically CV assessment, and (b) provide a discussion of evidence supporting such selection criteria.

Methods: An observational analysis on the selection criteria used to assess candidates applying to ophthalmology training programs within the US, Canada, European Union / European Economic Union (EU/EEA), United Kingdom (UK) and Australia and New Zealand (ANZ). Presence of a publicly available selection criteria policy for the 2025 intake was searched for on national and local college, society, federation and training program websites. The selection criteria employed for assessing applicant CV, and its associated scoring (if existent), were recorded for the included programs. Descriptive statistics was applied to these data.

Results: 174 accredited ophthalmology training programs were identified, and 51/174 publish a publicly available selection criteria policy. Overall, the most important criteria from ophthalmic training bodies in the Western world include research experience, academic achievements, particularly in the form of awards and prizes, references supporting evidence of favourable personal and professional characteristics, and evidence of involvement in extracurricular activities that produce evidence of a well-founded interest in ophthalmology.

Conclusions: Each region adopts varying selection processes and frameworks, which, rather than reflect a standardised international approach to selecting an "ideal" ophthalmology trainee, perhaps select for the specific needs of the country and or training program. The study is limited by its observational nature.