Neurological Surgery Residency Program

• Must have an MD or DO degree (or equivalent medical qualification) from an accredited medical school
• Must have passed USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 examinations with scores submitted for verification
• Must have passed USMLE Step 3 as required by the training program
• International Medical Graduates (IMGs) must have a current ECFMG Certificate
• IMG applicants must have an ECFMG-sponsored J-1 visa or provide proof of permanent resident status
• Applicants must meet California medical licensing requirements before starting residency
• Must provide required health, background, and credential verification documents before appointment
• Applicants should have strong academic performance, clinical experience, and interest in neurological surgery

The Neurological Surgery Residency Program at UC Irvine School of Medicine, Irvine is a seven-year ACGME-accredited residency program designed to provide comprehensive training in adult and pediatric neurosurgical care. The program focuses on the diagnosis and surgical management of disorders affecting the brain, spine, peripheral nerves, and cerebrovascular system. Residents receive extensive clinical and operative experience in areas including brain tumors, spinal disorders, neurotrauma, cerebrovascular surgery, epilepsy surgery, pediatric neurosurgery, neurocritical care, endovascular procedures, and minimally invasive neurosurgical techniques. Training is provided at UC Irvine Medical Center, VA Long Beach Healthcare System, and Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), offering exposure to a diverse range of complex neurosurgical cases. The curriculum integrates hands-on surgical training, clinical rotations, research opportunities, conferences, simulation, and multidisciplinary education to prepare residents for independent practice and academic careers in neurosurgery.

1. Apply through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS)
2. Register with the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) to participate in the residency match
3. Submit required application documents through ERAS, including:

• ERAS Application Form
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Personal Statement
• Medical School Transcript
• Dean’s Letter / Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE) issued within the past 12 months
• Three current Letters of Recommendation issued within the past 12 months
• USMLE Step 1, Step 2, and Step 3 score reports
• ECFMG Certificate (for IMGs)

1. Applications are reviewed by the Neurological Surgery Residency Selection Committee
2. Selected candidates are invited for interviews
3. Final selection is completed through the NRMP Match process
4. Selected residents begin PGY-1 categorical training under the Department of Neurological Surgery