National Resident Matching Program (NRMP)
 

The function of the National Resident Matching Program is to allow senior medical students seeking positions in the first year of graduate medical education and institutions offering positions an opportunity for each to submit a rank list to the NRMP specifying their order of preference.  Virtually all of the nation's hospitals and graduating medical students participate in the NRMP.  The NRMP compiles this information to generate a "match" for the student and the residency training program using an applicant proposing algorithm.  The "matching" process is accomplished through the NRMP computer. All NRMP correspondence is coordinated through the Office of Student Affairs. Registration for the Match as well as submission of your "Rank List" is done through the NRMP Web site: (www.nrmp.org).  Please visit the NRMP's Web site for information pertaining to important dates and deadlines as well as general information pertaining to the Matching process.  Registration for the Main Match will be a three-step on-line process including completing a registration form, agreeing to the Terms and Conditions of the Match and paying the registration fee.  An e-mail address will be necessary in order for NRMP to communicate quickly and easily with you if necessary.  Students can register with the NRMP in August.   In late February of the senior year, students will enter their rank list by computer through the NRMP.   In March all seniors and hospitals receive the results of the computer matching process.  A match generated through the NRMP is a binding agreement to attend that program. 

(taken from the UMass Medical School 2005/2006 student handbook) 

NRMP link: http://www.nrmp.org/