Beginning in early June, the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) season begins. ERAS is the central online application service you can use to send your application to residency programs, in addition to any necessary supporting documents.

It streamlines the entire application process for all parties involved, including applicants, Letter of Recommendation authors, program directors, and applicants' designated Dean's Offices. Ultimately, ERAS makes it significantly easier to apply to the residency programs of your choosing.

It has four parts:

1. MyERAS.
2. The Dean's Office Workstation.
3. The Program Director's Workstation.
4. The Letter of Recommendation Portal.

Even if you're waiting for application season to open, there are steps you can take to get a headstart. To better prepare yourself for ERAS application season, here are some things you can start doing in advance.

What is the ERAS Residency Application Process?

The Electronic Residency Application Service, commonly known as ERAS, is a platform designed to streamline the residency application process. This service is used by thousands of medical students and graduates each year to apply to residency programs across the United States.

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ERAS allows applicants to create a profile, which includes their personal information, education, work experience, and other supporting documents. These documents can include letters of recommendation, transcripts, and other supporting documents that may be required by residency programs.

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The application season for residency programs typically begins in September and runs through January of the following year. During this time, applicants can apply to programs through ERAS. ERAS also provides a tool for applicants to track the status of their applications and receive notifications of any updates or changes.

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One of the key benefits of ERAS is the ability for applicants to apply to multiple residency programs at once. This saves time and effort compared to applying to each program individually. ERAS also offers a feature called the "MyERAS Application," which allows applicants to create a customized application for each program they are applying to.

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In addition to the convenience of applying to multiple programs, ERAS also ensures the security of the application process. All documents and information are stored securely and are only accessible to authorized personnel. This eliminates the risk of lost or stolen documents and also ensures that all applications are treated fairly and equally.

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ERAS also provides a centralized location for residency programs to review and evaluate applications. This makes it easier for programs to compare applicants and select the best candidates for their programs.

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Overall, ERAS is an essential tool for anyone applying to residency programs in the United States. Its user-friendly interface and streamlined application process make it easy for applicants to apply to multiple programs, track their applications, and submit all necessary supporting documents.

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Get the Proper ERAS Token

First, be sure you've created an AAMC account. You need this in order to register your ERAS token.

The ERAS token must come from your Designated Dean's Office.  If it comes from another organization or school, you won't be able to upload your documents.

Finally, be sure the token is for the current season. You'll be unable to use ERAS tokens from previous seasons to move forward with the process.

Prepare Your Application Fees

MyERAS will automatically calculate your application fees for you, based on the number of programs applied per specialty. (On that note, do your research ahead of time regarding the residency programs you might be interested in.)

However, it's helpful to understand what you'll be expected to pay ahead of time. Review the fees on AAMC's website and make sure you have the necessary funds.

You can pay online with Visa or MasterCard.

Prepare the Necessary Documents and Paperwork

You will be required to upload and assign a number of documents. These include:

1. Your personal statement.
2. Letters of recommendation, are to be uploaded by the authors.
3. Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE, also known as the "Dean's Letter").
4. Medical school transcript.
5. ECFMG Status Report.
6. Postgraduate Training Authorization Letter (PTAL).
7. A photo.
8. Your USMLE and/or COMLEX-USA transcripts. (Be sure to complete any missing exams!)

You can view this full checklist at AAMC.

If you're an IMG looking to further your medical education and career in the United States, Contact Community Hospital Health Associates today for assistance.

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