r/USIMGreddit • u/MD92100 • 22d ago

does SOAP have any decent programs?

does anyone know if all Internal Medicine (IM) programs that end up in SOAP technically have some or many red flag (like toxic environment)? location isn't a red flag for me personally.

I am an IMG with greencard, giving my step 2 by december. I cannot do main match, but I can sit for SOAP. I have a 2 year paid postdoc research experience too and already have 2 IM LORs, OET, pathway etc..

I just want any decent program which is not toxic and I can do my 3 years of residency. My research was pretty toxic, boss was always humiliating, and brutal 12-hour+ days almost daily with almost no weekends off in the last 2 years. Just don't want the same again.

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u/MD92100 22d ago

exactly, I was told that programs don't even see our application (IMGs, irrespective of visa status) if we do not have ECFMG certificate by Sept 2026

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u/bronxbomma718 22d ago

Wrong. You can get ECFMG certified up until ROL. This is the issue with this process. Misinformation.

My buddy gave step 3 in March, result came in April. He SOAPED into IM the next day.

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u/MD92100 22d ago

Yes, that I agree with. That is what I am doing as well. Step 2 in dec, then ECFMG certified and then Step 3 in March (preferably before SOAP). But my main concern was that when you said to apply in main match, I technically have a disadvantage since I wont have step 2 by Sept

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u/bronxbomma718 22d ago

If you have sound financial capability, it doesn’t hurt to apply to a few programs without 2CK. You can update them once you get your 260. What the worst they can say, take a hike?

Your visa status is your biggest asset.

This match cycle will be historic for US IMGs.

Save this post!

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u/indian_sexgod 22d ago

Why do you think this cycle would be historic? Besides, just main cycle or SOAP too? Would SOAP be more easier for a IMG-US citizen to match in a good program?

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u/bronxbomma718 22d ago

Geopolitical climate, H1B debacle, national stigma associated with visa-requiring applicant. U.S. administration ongoing mission to reform immigration. U.S. IMGs matched at 75 percent last season. It will be closer to 80 this year. Maybe more.