Unmatched in SOAP When Things Don’t Go As Planned?

Unmatched in SOAP: Daniel’s Reality Check

SOAP moves fast—but not everyone matches through it. As Thursday evening approaches, Daniel anxiously watches his NRMP R3 portal. He still hasn’t received an offer. With the final SOAP round closing

at 5:00 PM ET, he realizes he may not match this cycle.

Daniel feels defeated. He worked so hard, but now he has no residency position—what should he do next?

In this final article, we’ll explore next steps for unmatched applicants and how to stay proactive and optimistic in the face of uncertainty.

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Step 1: Check the Final List of Unfilled Programs

🔹 9:00 PM ET on Thursday – SOAP officially ends. The final List of Unfilled Programs is released by NRMP.
🔹 Unlike SOAP, this list includes ALL unfilled residency positions—even those that didn’t participate in SOAP.
🔹 Applicants can now directly contact programs to inquire about positions.

Daniel immediately checks the updated unfilled programs list and begins strategizing his next steps.

Key Takeaway: The SOAP process ends, but opportunities still exist. Some programs will still accept applications outside of SOAP.

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Step 2: Reaching Out to Programs After SOAP

Unlike SOAP, where programs must contact applicants first, unmatched applicants can now reach out directly to programs.

How Daniel Should Contact Programs:

✅ Email the Program Director or Coordinator – Keep it concise and professional.
✅ Attach a well-structured CV and updated personal statement.
✅ Express strong interest in the program and why he is a good fit.
✅ Follow up professionally if no response is received after a few days.

Tip: Programs filling last-minute spots often move quickly, so Daniel must act fast.

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Step 3: Exploring Alternative Pathways

📌 Need guidance on your next steps? Schedule a free consultation with IMGPrep to discuss your post-SOAP options. Mention in your request that this is a ‘Post-SOAP Consult’.

If Daniel does not secure a spot post-SOAP, he can still build a stronger application for next year’s Match. Here’s how:

1️⃣ Consider a Research Position

• Many unmatched applicants pursue research fellowships to strengthen their academic profile.
• Clinical research experience can improve his CV and lead to stronger letters of recommendation.

2️⃣ Apply for Observerships or Externships

• Gaining more U.S. clinical experience (USCE) can make Daniel more competitive next cycle.
• Programs often value applicants who have recent hands-on training in the U.S.

3️⃣ Take USMLE Step 3

• Some applicants take Step 3 before reapplying, which can boost their application for the next cycle.

4️⃣ Look Into Prelim or Transitional Year Programs

• Some unmatched applicants apply to Preliminary or Transitional Year programs to gain a foot in the door.
• These programs offer one year of training and can sometimes lead to a full categorical position.

5️⃣ Strengthen Application for the Next Match Cycle

• Reassess specialty choices – Should Daniel apply more broadly next time?
• Improve CV & Personal Statement – Address weaknesses from the last cycle.
• Network & Build Stronger Connections – Attend residency fairs, connect with mentors, and seek faculty guidance.

Lesson: Not matching isn’t the end of the road—it’s an opportunity to rebuild and come back stronger next year.

Unmatched SOAP 2025 Free Consultation IMGPrep

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Final Thoughts: Moving Forward with Confidence

While not matching through SOAP is disappointing, Daniel still has options. By acting quickly, reaching out professionally, and exploring alternative pathways, he can stay on track for a future residency.

📌 Final Reminder: Every year, strong applicants don’t match—but many go on to reapply successfully. The key is to stay proactive, learn from the experience, and make improvements for the next Match cycle.

This isn’t the end of Daniel’s journey—it’s just a detour toward his final destination. 🚀

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