Post MATCH Communication with Residency Programs The Do’s and Don’ts – SOAP Communication Rules - IMGPrep
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Post MATCH Communication with Residency Programs The Do’s and Don’ts – SOAP Communication Rules

March 5, 2025

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Introduction: Daniel’s Biggest Concern

After understanding how Post MATCH communication and SOAP Offer Rounds work, Daniel feels ready to make quick decisions when offers arrive. But there’s one major rule he’s worried about: communication restrictions.

SOAP has strict guidelines regarding how applicants interact with programs, and breaking these rules can lead to disqualification from SOAP and potential NRMP violations.

Daniel has a lot of questions:

  • Can I email programs to express interest?
  • What if a program contacts me first?
  • Am I allowed to follow up after an interview?

This article will clarify SOAP communication policies and help applicants avoid common mistakes that could cost them a residency spot.

The Golden Rule of SOAP Communication

🚫 Applicants cannot contact residency programs during SOAP. Programs must initiate all

communication. 🚫

This means Daniel cannot email, call, or message any residency program about his application. Doing this direct Post MATCH communication outside of the NRMP risks NRMP violations and SOAP disqualification.

Key Takeaway: SOAP is a one-way communication process—programs contact applicants, not the other way around.

What Daniel CAN and CANNOT Do During SOAP

Allowed Actions ✅Prohibited Actions ❌
Accept or reject an offer in the NRMP R3 system.Contacting a program before receiving an offer.
Participate in interviews if a program reaches out.Sending thank-you emails after an interview.
Ask clarifying questions if a program contacts him.Asking about application status or likelihood of receiving an offer.
Wait for offers and respond within two hours.Negotiating with programs for better conditions.

Lesson: Even if a program has an open position, applicants cannot reach out first—they must wait for an invitation.

What If a Program Contacts Daniel?

If a program reaches out, Daniel must respond professionally and be prepared for an interview. Programs often:

  • Call or email to schedule a quick interview.
  • Ask questions about his application, specialty choice, or visa status.
  • Directly offer a residency position in one of the SOAP rounds.

How Daniel Should Respond

✅ Answer calls or emails promptly.
✅ Remain professional and concise.
✅ Be ready for an immediate interview.
✅ Have a quiet environment for phone or video interviews.

If a program offers him a position during SOAP, Daniel has two hours to accept or decline it in the NRMP R3 system.

Tip: If an applicant misses a call, they should check their voicemail and return the call as soon as possible—some offers are time-sensitive.

Final Thoughts: Staying Professional During SOAP

SOAP is a high-pressure process, and it’s tempting to reach out to programs—but the best approach is to be patient, follow the rules, and respond professionally when contacted.

As Daniel prepares for SOAP Offer Rounds, he knows that staying professional and following communication rules will keep him eligible and competitive.

📌 Next Up: What If Things Don’t Go As Planned?

IMGPrep Match Smarter Not Harder!!