Neurosurgery Residency Program

The Neurosurgery Residency Program at UCSF School of Medicine is a highly competitive 7-year integrated training program designed to provide comprehensive education in all major areas of neurological surgery. The program offers extensive exposure to subspecialties such as neuro-oncology, vascular neurosurgery, spine surgery, functional neurosurgery, pediatric neurosurgery, and neurocritical care, ensuring well-rounded clinical and surgical expertise. The curriculum is progressively structured, starting with foundational training in critical care, general surgery, and clinical neuroscience, followed by advanced neurosurgical rotations with increasing operative responsibility. Residents train across multiple affiliated hospitals, gaining experience in managing complex cases while working within multidisciplinary teams. In addition to strong clinical training, the program emphasizes research, innovation, and academic development, enabling residents to participate in cutting-edge clinical and translational research, with the goal of developing skilled neurosurgeons, clinician-scientists, and future leaders in neurological surgery.

1. Apply through ERAS
2. Submit your application via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) platform
3. Ensure all required documents are uploaded before the deadline
2. Register with NRMP (Match Process)
3. Candidates must register with the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP)
4. Rank programs (including UCSF) for the Match
3. Submit Required Documents
4. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
5. Personal Statement
6. Letters of Recommendation (typically 3–4)
7. Medical School Transcript
8. USMLE scores
9. Dean’s Letter (MSPE)
4. Application Review & Shortlisting
5. The program reviews applications based on academic performance, USMLE scores, clinical experience, research, and recommendations
6. Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews
5. Interview Process
6. Selected applicants attend structured interviews (virtual or in-person)
7. Includes interaction with faculty, program directors, and current residents
6. Ranking & Match Result
7. After interviews, candidates submit their rank order list in NRMP
8. Final selection is done through the Match system
7. Final Selection & Joining
8. Candidates matched to UCSF receive official confirmation
9. Complete onboarding, documentation, and visa formalities (if applicable)