As Match Day 2025 approaches on March 21, fourth-year medical students are waiting in anticipation to learn where they will be placed for their residency program, along with what field of medicine they will be specializing in. Check out the key factors match students should know now—as well as tips on managing this exciting yet uncertain time.

About ‘The Match®’

The National Residency Matching Program® (NRMP)—also known as the ‘The Match®’ —is an independent nonprofit organization that controls and coordinates the residency match process in the United States. This highly complex system uses a computerized algorithm to ensure that applicants and programs get the best possible match, based on mutual preferences. Learn more about ‘The Match’ process.

Why Match Day is significant

Graduating with an “MD” is not enough to allow a medical student to treat patients without supervision. Medical graduates require additional training via a residency program before they can obtain their license. Read more about the Match Day in our blog: “What is Match Day: Breaking Down the Residency Match Process.”

What students need to do now: Rank Order List (ROL)

ROL Certification Deadline: March 5, 2025, at 9:00 PM (EST)

Suppose you are a medical student who has graduated. With the application and interview processes behind you, now is the time—if you haven’t already—to submit your Rank Order List (ROL) to the NRMP. Since this may be the most critical and greatest high-stakes decision you make in your medical career, we have compiled some important tips to help position you for the best possible outcome. These include how to rank programs:

• Based on preference, not perceived chances—meaning you should rank in the order that you want rather than trying to predict where you will “match.”
• Where you have interviewed.
• Where you would be happy and willing to live and train.

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Not ranking enough programs.
• Assuming a “low ranked” program won’t approve you.
• Leaving out backup options.

Important note: Do NOT rank a program that you wouldn’t want to attend. Once your rank list is certified, you can’t change it. Match results are binding, which means you MUST attend that program. Be confident in your choices. After all, you’ve done the work!

Managing your emotions

Match Day can be an emotional rollercoaster. You’ve worked hard to get to this point, but the process can be both exciting and stressful. Here are some helpful tips to keep yourself in check:

• Engage in activities outside of medicine, such as spending time with friends and family.
• Pursue hobbies that bring you happiness and peace.
• Prioritize self-care by eating well and getting enough rest and exercise.
• Be prepared and have a plan for any outcome.

Match Week: What you need to know

When: March 17 to March 21, 2025

Monday, March 17, 2025, at 10:00 AM—The Big Reveal

On this day, students will learn if they have matched to a program, but not where they matched. If you did match, congratulations! Take a deep breath. Only four more days until Match Day!

What to do if you did not match to a program?

First and foremost, do not be discouraged. Students who did not match will have an additional opportunity to secure a residency position by applying through the Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP®). Here’s what you need to know:

What is SOAP? SOAP is a rapid, high-stakes process that offers eligible unmatched students the opportunity to secure unfilled residency positions.

When should you apply? The SOAP process begins on March 17 at 11 AM and runs through Thursday, March 20. Get more detailed information. 

Match Day: March 21 at Noon, EST

The wait is over. It’s finally Match Day! On this day at noon, students who matched will learn where they will be spending the next several years of medical training. It is now time to celebrate this momentous occasion!

How Xavier helps students prepare for residency and Match Day

At Xavier, we believe preparation is the key to a successful future. In fact, from the first day of medical school, students will begin their journey to Match Day with several key resources and structured programs to prepare them for residency and this next-to-final step. Here are a few of the ways we support our students:

• Comprehensive USMLE preparation.
• Clinical rotations in the U.S.
• Residency advising and match preparation
• Alumni and networking opportunities
• Post-graduate support for students who did not match.

As Match Day draws near, feel confident and keep in mind that your time at Xavier has equipped you with the knowledge and skills to excel. We wish you all the best on Match Day—and in your future medical career.

Considering a medical degree?

Do you have a passion for medicine? At Xavier University School of Medicine in Aruba, we are more than just teachers and faculty members at a medical school. We are a family of dedicated professionals who are committed to our students’ success—not to mention we’re located on the beautiful island of Aruba.

See what we’re all about! Watch our overview video to learn more!

Like what you see? Apply today!