Application Instructions
We review all applications through the AAMC’s ERAS platform, and applicants are required to complete the MyERAS application.
In addition, we offer a brief, optional secondary application that provides an opportunity to share more about your interest in our program. This is a chance to highlight how our training environment aligns with your goals and what draws you to our community.
Characteristics of Successful Applicants by Track
Our specialized tracks are designed to align with a range of interests and career goals. While all applicants are reviewed holistically, successful candidates for each track often demonstrate the following characteristics:
5-Year Track (NRMP#1716440C0) — Four positions
Successful applicants demonstrate strong overall experiences, attributes, and academic performance, along with a clear commitment to comprehensive surgical training in a high-volume, rigorous, and supportive clinical environment.
7-Year Research Track (NRMP#1716440C1) — Five positions
In addition to the qualities above, successful applicants show meaningful engagement in research, with prior experience during undergraduate or medical training and a clear interest in developing as surgeon-scientists.
7-Year Innovation Track (NRMP#1716440C3) — 1 position
Successful applicants pair strong overall qualifications with demonstrated involvement in innovation-related activities, such as engineering, device development, entrepreneurship, or collaboration with industry.
7-Year Global Track (NRMP#1716440C2) — 1 position
Successful applicants combine strong overall qualifications with a sustained commitment to global health, health policy, care of underserved populations, and/or advocacy at a local or international level.
Pre-Interview Application Review
Our program uses a criterion-referenced, holistic review process to select applicants for interview. Each application is independently reviewed and scored by two faculty members, with careful consideration given to experiences, attributes, and academic metrics.
While we do not use a strict USMLE Step 2 cutoff, most applicants invited to interview perform at or above the national median. Step 2 is considered within the broader context of each applicant’s overall record.
We also place meaningful emphasis on program and geographic signaling. These signals help us identify applicants with a strong and genuine interest in our program and in training in Houston.
International Applicants
International medical graduates must meet all eligibility requirements established by the Baylor College of Medicine Graduate Medical Education Office, in accordance with the Texas Medical Board and U.S. immigration regulations.
Applicants should also work with the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) to complete the required certification and documentation processes.
At Baylor, international graduates must be eligible for an Institutional Permit as defined by the Texas Medical Board and must have (or be able to obtain) appropriate documentation to support J-1 visa sponsorship.
Application and Selection Process
To allow adequate time for review and processing, all applications and supporting materials must be received through ERAS by the Surgery Education Office.
The selection of applicants is made based on information contained in the application form, medical school transcript, medical school dean's letter, and letters of recommendation, which are received from the ERAS program. The selected applicants are invited to interview with faculty members and current residents.
After the interview process is complete, the General Surgery Education Committee members review and rank all of the applicants. Final ranking is determined with consultation from both the department chair and program director.