Updated Research Publication Standards and Expectations for Successful Matching in Urology Residency Following Step 1 Scoring Changes.

Objectives: To analyze the research productivity of 2024 urology residency applicants and its impact on match outcomes following the transition of the Step 1 exam to a Pass/Fail scoring system.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of PubMed-indexed publications for 98 applicants matched to the top 25 urology residency programs, as ranked by Doximity. Metrics such as the number of publications, citations, journal impact factors, and authorship rank were analyzed. Statistical comparisons of publication rates between top-ranked and lower-ranked programs were made using independent samples t-tests.

Results: The average number of publications per applicant was 5.95, with those entering top-ranked programs exhibiting higher research outputs. Most publications were found in journals like "Urology" and "Urology Practice." A significant portion of the research was published in the final year of medical school, indicating a push for paper acceptances prior to the urology application deadline date.

Discussion: The increase in research output among applicants reflects the shifting weights of factors important for residency competitiveness following the Step 1 Pass/Fail scoring changes. Early engagement and mentorship in research have been shown to increase the research output of students. The findings of this study clarify the research expectations of matching successfully into a top urology program and can be used by both medical students and program directors in the current and upcoming cycles.