Evaluation of Residency Applicant Preferences for Continuing Virtual Interviews: A National Database Analysis
by Sarkis Richard Kouyoumjian, M.D. | August 19, 2025
Article Citation: Nicholas R. Lenze, William J. Benjamin, Angela P. Mihalic, Louito Edje, Lauren A. Bohm, Marc C. Thorne, Robbi A. Kupfer, Michael J. Brenner; Evaluation of Residency Applicant Preferences for Continuing Virtual Interviews: A National Database Analysis. J Grad Med Educ 14 February 2025; 17 (1): 63–70. DOI: 10.4300/JGME-D-24-00478.1
What is this article about?
In this retrospective, cross-sectional analysis, the authors utilized data from the Texas Seeking Transparency in Application to Residency (STAR) survey to evaluate what percentage of applicants favor continuation of virtual interviews and what factors predict a preference for the continuation of virtual interviews. In this study, most applicants favor continuation of virtual residency interviews, and this preference has been increasing over the past 3 application cycles. Certain sociodemographic groups were more likely to favor the continuation of virtual interviews.
Why should you read the article?
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual interviews have essentially replaced the in-person interview during the residency application process. However, some programs conduct hybrid options and second look days. Citing financial cost to applicants, the AAMC recommended continuation of virtual interviews for the 2024-2025 application cycle. There is limited evidence available to residency programs to guide their approach to residency applicant interview. Most of the studies on applicant preferences have been specialty-specific, single-year, and limited by relatively small sample sizes. The authors provide a multi-year, multi-specialty review to provide guidance regarding student preferences. Readers will gain insight into potential equity implications, including data on sociodemographic factors related to applicant interview preference.
How can you use this article?
Residency Program Directors need to consider the most effective way to conduct interviews for applicants to their program. There has previously been little evidence to guide decision-making regarding applicant preferences regarding virtual compared with in-person interviews. This research demonstrates that applicants overall prefer virtual interviews yet sociodemographic differences in interview preferences exist. Program Directors should consider applicant preferences for continuation of virtual interviews. In addition, Clerkship Directors, Faculty Specialty Advisors, and Student Affairs staff need to have up-to-date information to guide the students they are advising.
Review Author: Sarkis Richard Kouyoumjian, M.D.; Clerkship Director and Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI. Organization: Clerkship Directors in Emergency Medicine