Unfilled Residency Positions After the Match: SOAP and Direct Outreach

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

Unfilled residency positions require applicants to distinguish between the formal SOAP process and outreach after SOAP ends. A vacancy does not establish applicant eligibility, predict selection, or guarantee that the program is still accepting applications.

This guide explains where to find authoritative information and how to assess a position before applying.

During SOAP, begin with R3

NRMP’s R3 system is the authoritative source for SOAP eligibility and the applicant’s List of Unfilled Programs. The list is filtered by matched status. Check the exact program code and track rather than relying on a vacancy displayed in an application service or an older program directory.^[2]

An eligible partially matched applicant must seek a compatible missing component of training. A position with a different start year or training structure may not resolve that need. Preserve any existing binding commitment.

SOAP is an offer process

SOAP should not be described as a second run of the Main Match’s mutual ranking process. Programs review applications and create preference lists. Applicants receive formal offers in R3 and decide whether to accept within the round window. Applicants do not create SOAP preference lists.^[4]

Applications are submitted through each program’s designated service. Applicants and their representatives must wait for the program to initiate contact in response to the application. An advisor cannot bypass that rule on the applicant’s behalf.^[3]

The current 2027 timeline

SOAP begins Monday, March 15 at 10 AM ET. Application preparation begins at 11 AM. Program review and possible interviews begin Tuesday, March 16 at 8 AM. All four offer rounds are Thursday, March 18.^[1]

The final offer window closes at 8 PM. SOAP ends at 9 PM ET, when the expanded R3 list becomes available to eligible unmatched and partially matched applicants.

After SOAP, verify the vacancy before outreach

The expanded list includes remaining programs that did not participate in SOAP. Applicants may then contact remaining unfilled programs, subject to eligibility and existing commitments. Use the program’s requested application method and confirm that the specific vacancy remains available.

Assess educational fit after eligibility

Review the curriculum, supervision, patient population, and relationship to long-term specialty goals. Historical IMG participation is context, not evidence that the program will select a particular applicant. A preliminary year should be evaluated on its own training value without assuming a later categorical appointment.

IMGPrep’s structured profile review and Equitable Match framework support screening and goodness of fit. They do not predict a Match result. If a position is not secured, use a documented post-SOAP plan to address identifiable gaps before another cycle.

IMGPrep is not affiliated with NRMP or ECFMG.

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.