Fellowship FAQs

1. Do the Radiology Fellowship Programs participate in the Match?

   The following ACGME programs participate in the Match: Vascular Interventional and Neuroradiology. Register with the NRMP and adhere to the NRMP schedule of dates regarding interviews, rank submission, and position offers. The NRMP can be reached at 202-862-6077 or you can view their website at www.nrmp.org for additional information.

   The following programs do not participate in the match: Abdominal Imaging, Breast Imaging, Breast Imaging/Ultrasound, Cross Sectional Imaging (VAMC), Cross Imaging Practicum (SFGH), Interventional Neuroradiology Musculoskeletal, Cardiac and Pulmonary Imaging, Ultrasound, and Breast/Body Imaging (SFGH). The schedule of dates (i.e. application deadlines and interviews) is posted in October.

2. How do you apply for a fellowship position?

   You can look on our application page, download the universal application form and send with a CV, personal statement, USMLE score copies, and 3 letters of recommendation. Once we receive the completed packet, your file will be sent to the section chief for review. We will contact prospective candidates to interview. Interview dates for the 2009-2010 fellowship appointment will be conducted from October 15, 2007 – January 11, 2008 for programs not participating in the Match, and April 1 - June 6, 2008 (approximately) for match programs.

3. What is an AAMC ID Number?

   An AAMC (Association of American Medical College) ID number is what you are given upon registering with the NRMP. This 9-digit number is what we use to rank candidates.

4. What type of Visas do the University sponsors for clinical trainees?

   The University sponsors J-1 ECFMG visas for fellowship positions in the majority of cases.

5. Do Canadian applicants have to take the USMLE step 1 & 2?

   No. Canadians do not have to take USMLE step 1 or 2, but they must have the Canadian equivalent (MCCQE). Canadians do not have to obtain an ECFMG certificate, however, they do need to go through the ECFMG for their visa.

6. Is it necessary to obtain a California Medical license before applying?

   No. You need not have a California Medical license before applying. You must be eligible to obtain one. If you match with our program, you will be given ample time to fill out our appointment packets and apply for a medical license.

7. Who do we address the application packet to?

   All applications should be addressed and sent to:
   

   Ronald L. Arenson, MD
   Professor and Chairman
   Department of Radiology
   UCSF School of Medicine
   c/o Sandria Wong
   513 Parnassus Avenue
   Rm. S-358, Box 0628
   San Francisco, CA 94143-0628
   
   Or faxed, or e-mailed to:
   Sandria Wong, Fellowship Coordinator
   Fax 415-476-0616
   sandria.wong@radiology.ucsf.edu
   

8. Can I apply to more than 1 subspecialty?

   Yes, however it is recommended to apply/interview with the subspecialty that most interests you. If you do choose to apply to more than one subspecialty, you can fill out 1 application and list the subspecialty by 1st, 2nd, 3rd choice. Your application will be given first to your top choice for review, and then sent to the other sections on your list.

9. When can I apply?

   You can apply year round. We usually select fellowship positions one year in advance. However, if you see an open position on our website, you are more than welcome to apply. We also can accept your application for future fellowships. We will hold them on file until the NRMP registration and interview dates are released (if applicable). Once they are released and when your file is complete with CV, application, personal statement, and 3 letters of recommendation, we will forward your packet to the appropriate sections and they will contact prospective candidates to interview.

   For programs participating in the match (Vascular Interventional, and Neuroradiology) applications during the 2008 NRMP Match season will be accepted before June 6, 2008 (interviews end). It is recommended to have everything completed and submitted by May 1, 2008. These dates are approximate as NRMP has not released their dates for the 2009-10 appointment period.

10. Can I apply for an ACGME fellowship without registering with the NRMP?

    Technically yes. You can apply, submit a completed application packet, and interview with us, however, we will not be able to rank you unless you provide us with an AAMC ID#. If you are interested in our match programs and do not register, you will risk having to wait for unmatched positions that may or may not become available after the July 3, 2008 match day (approximate). We highly recommend registering in the Match on March 22, 2008.