Demystifying the Dermatology Residency Application Process, Part I - Building the Application: Competition, Academic Metrics, and Extracurricular Activities.

Abstract

The dermatology residency match has become increasingly competitive, culminating in a 2025 United States senior MD match rate of 63%, according to the National Resident Matching Program. Considering this trend, a comprehensive, evidence-based review of the application and match process is needed. This article marks the first in a three-part literature review series aimed at demystifying the dermatology match, improving access for applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds, such as those underrepresented in medicine, without a home program, or lacking strong mentorship. Part I focuses on key components of the application: academic performance, personal statements, board scores, research, leadership and volunteerism, and advanced degrees. The Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE) is an important part of the application but remains varied in its curation, limiting its utility. Personal statements tend to share common themes and are viewed as less influential by program directors. Volunteerism and leadership are viewed favorably but limited evidence suggests they have negligible impact on match success. Since the transition to pass/fail Step 1 scoring, Step 2 scores and research have assumed greater importance. Inflated research counts may obscure true academic quality; nonetheless, matched applicants have higher numbers of publications and presentations on average. While research fellowships can improve match rates at host institutions, their overall impact remains uncertain, and their financial burdens may exacerbate inequities. Advanced degrees may offer an opportunity to highlight specific interests but do not consistently offer a match advantage or compensate for weaker core metrics. Ethical considerations surrounding each of these components are explored throughout.