SOAP Interview Process: Program Review and Interview Preparation

Updated October 6, 2026 · Guidance for SOAP 2027 · All schedule times are Eastern Time (ET).

SOAP interviews allow programs to evaluate eligible applicants during a compressed review period. The format may be brief, but the decision still concerns readiness for residency, compatibility with the program, and the ability to meet appointment requirements.

This third article in the series separates the review timetable from interview preparation and formal offers.

When programs begin reviewing applications

For SOAP 2027, programs begin reviewing applications Tuesday, March 16 at 8 AM ET and may contact applicants after receiving an application. Review and interviews continue Wednesday. Monday’s application preparation period does not mean programs begin reviewing immediately.^[1]

Prepare a concise, evidence-based account

Be able to explain why the specialty and program are appropriate, which experiences support that choice, and what you would contribute as a resident. Use specific examples from patient care, teamwork, or research. If changing specialties, explain the decision honestly rather than trying to manufacture a history of interest.

Prepare a factual account of examination attempts, gaps, graduation date, prior training, and sponsorship needs. State what is documented and what still requires confirmation. Avoid speculative explanations of why you did not match.

Questions to prepare for

• What experience supports your interest in this specialty?
• Which features of this program align with your training goals?
• How have you responded to feedback or a difficult clinical situation?
• What documentation or sponsorship will you need to begin training?

These are preparation topics, not a guaranteed interview script. Programs determine their own interview methods.

Make the interview practical

Test the phone, video platform, microphone, and connection in advance. Keep application documents and program notes accessible, but answer conversationally rather than reading a prepared statement. Confirm the interviewer’s identity and the scheduled time zone.

Ask focused questions about the curriculum, supervision, start date, and appointment requirements when the program initiates contact. Accurate information helps both parties assess fit. Do not treat an invitation, encouraging comment, or discussion of interest as a formal offer.

Respect communication rules

Applicants and their representatives cannot initiate contact before the program contacts them in response to the application. Once contact has begun, respond professionally through the channel the program provides. The restriction is on initiating contact; SOAP is not an entirely one-way conversation.^[3]

Programs should not pressure applicants to disclose other applications or interview activity. Refer uncertain policy questions to NRMP rather than relying on informal advice.

If no interview invitation arrives

Silence does not establish that an application has been rejected. Continue monitoring the required systems. There is no need to reapply to the same program between rounds, and unused applications can be used for additional eligible programs within the service’s allowance.^[5]

Formal offers must be reviewed and answered in R3 by the applicable round deadline. Read the offer-round guide before Thursday so the process is familiar.^[4]

Official sources

1. 2027 Match Week and SOAP calendar
2. NRMP SOAP eligibility and applicant resources
3. NRMP professional behavior and binding commitments
4. NRMP guide: viewing and responding to offers
5. NRMP guidance on applications between rounds

IMGPrep is an independent educational consultancy and is not affiliated with NRMP. Follow the current NRMP agreement, R3 instructions, and your application service’s guidance.