Orthopedic Surgery Residency Program

1. Applicants must hold a medical degree from an eligible medical school.
2. Applicants must submit a completed application through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS).
3. Applicants must provide a Common Application Form, curriculum vitae, personal statement, medical school transcripts, and Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE) or Dean’s Letter.
4. Applicants must submit at least three letters of recommendation.
5. Applicants must provide official National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) transcripts showing United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1 results. Step 2 results are not required but should be submitted if available.
6. International medical graduates must provide verification of Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) certification through ERAS and verification of United States residency status.
7. Applicants must meet the program’s applicable licensing, credentialing, and vaccination requirements.

The Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program at the University of California San Diego (UC San Diego), School of Medicine, provides comprehensive postgraduate training in the diagnosis, treatment, and surgical management of musculoskeletal disorders and injuries. The program offers a five-year Clinical Track and a six-year Research Track, combining supervised clinical practice, operative experience, academic teaching, and research opportunities. Residents gain experience in orthopaedic trauma, joint reconstruction, sports medicine, hand and microvascular surgery, spine surgery, pediatric orthopaedics, and foot and ankle surgery, preparing them for independent practice or advanced subspecialty training. The University of California San Diego is a public research university located in San Diego, California, recognized for its academic excellence and scientific innovation. Its School of Medicine emphasizes evidence-based medicine, interdisciplinary collaboration, and research-driven education. Through clinical rotations at affiliated healthcare facilities, residents develop the technical expertise and clinical judgment needed to care for patients with diverse musculoskeletal conditions.

1. Apply through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS).
2. Select the five-year Clinical Track, six-year Research Track, or both.
3. Submit the application form, curriculum vitae, personal statement, medical school transcripts, and Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE).
4. Provide at least three letters of recommendation.
5. Submit official United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1 results and Step 2 results, if available.
6. International medical graduates must provide Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) certification verification and proof of United States residency status.
7. Attend an interview if shortlisted.
8. Register with the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) and submit the appropriate rank list.
9. If matched, complete the required credentialing and onboarding procedures before starting residency.