ERAS 2026 changes: Every applicant needs to know!

The 2025-2026 ERAS cycle brings important changes to how you’ll apply for residency. Understanding these updates is crucial for a competitive application.

Here’s a concise overview of what’s new:

1. New Specialty-Specific Questions: Applicants to Anesthesiology, Neurological Surgery, and Plastic Surgery-Integrated will face new, tailored questions. These responses are visible only to programs within that specific specialty. Prepare to articulate your precise interest and fit for these fields.

2. Education Section Updates: You can now report non-ACGME postgraduate training, including the accrediting body and ID. The “Interruptions/Extensions” section is expanded, requiring more detailed explanations for any academic or professional gaps. Be prepared to provide clear and concise context for these sections.

3. New “Hometown(s)” Section: This new section allows you to list up to three locations where you feel a strong sense of belonging. For IMGs, strategically listing U.S. hometowns where you have lived or rotated can demonstrate connections to the U.S. communities. Do not list a sole foreign city as your hometown; use this space to show ties to the U.S. healthcare system and communities, answering strategically to support your match goals. Since this is still new, these are our initial recommendations. Please proceed with discretion and get feedback from mentors.

4. Pilot Projects for 2026: More detailed program signals are being piloted for Anesthesiology and Plastic Surgery-Integrated. Otolaryngology and Orthopedic Surgery applicants can now choose to opt out of geographic preferences. Specialty questions are also being further piloted in Anesthesiology, Neurosurgery, and Plastic Surgery-Integrated; consult the 2026 ERAS Applicant Worksheet for full details.

5. Thalamus Integration for Interview Scheduling: Starting July 2025, Thalamus will manage interview scheduling for residency programs. You’ll receive setup instructions via email once your ERAS token is registered. This aims to streamline the interview process for applicants.

Stay Updated!

Remember, these changes are not yet final. Follow us to keep up to date with the changes, and reach out to Match a Resident for help on how to use them to your advantage!

We’re always here to help!

Now, you can start preparing for the 2026 Match! Start all of your application prep early and contact us if you have any questions at support@matcharesident.com!