Short answer: the Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP) runs during Match Week, from Monday, March 15 to Thursday, March 18, 2027. Eligible unmatched or partially matched applicants can send up to 45 applications, must wait for programs to contact them, and receive offers in four rounds on Thursday. The applicants who do best in SOAP prepare their documents and target list weeks before Match Week.
Nobody wants to need SOAP, but every applicant, especially an international medical graduate (IMG), should know how it works. Match Week moves fast. Preparing now, while you are calm, is one of the best things you can do to protect your year.
Who can take part in SOAP?
According to the NRMP, to participate in SOAP you must be registered for the Match, be verified as eligible to start residency on July 1, and be fully or partially unmatched when Match Week begins. For IMGs, this means meeting the ECFMG verification requirements by the rank order list deadline of March 3, 2027. The NRMP decides SOAP eligibility, so check your status in the R3 system.
SOAP 2027 schedule
| When (ET) | What happens |
|---|---|
| Mon, March 15, 10 a.m. | You learn whether you matched. SOAP begins, and eligible applicants can see the List of Unfilled Programs in R3. |
| Mon, March 15, from 11 a.m. | You can start preparing and sending SOAP applications through the program’s application service, usually ERAS. |
| Tue, March 16, 8 a.m. | Programs start reviewing applications and may contact and interview applicants. |
| Thu, March 18, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. | Four offer rounds: 9–11 a.m., 12–2 p.m., 3–5 p.m. and 6–8 p.m. |
| Thu, March 18, 9 p.m. | SOAP ends. You may then contact remaining unfilled programs. |
| Fri, March 19, 12 p.m. | Match Day results. |
Source: NRMP 2027 Match calendar. The NRMP publishes a detailed SOAP guide for applicants early in the year, so always check the latest version.
Key SOAP rules to know
- 45 applications in each application service for the whole of SOAP. Use them carefully.
- Apply only where you are eligible. You are responsible for checking program requirements, including visa sponsorship.
- Do not contact programs first. During SOAP you may only respond once a program contacts you.
- Offers come in rounds. You can receive more than one offer in a round. Accepting an offer through SOAP is a binding commitment.
How to prepare for SOAP now
- Confirm your eligibility. Register for the NRMP before January 29, 2027 to avoid the late fee, and IMGs should check their ECFMG status well before March 3.
- Certify a full rank order list. A full list is still your best chance of matching. See our rank order list guide.
- Write SOAP personal statements in advance. Prepare versions for your main specialty and any back-up specialty, such as preliminary internal medicine or surgery.
- Line up your letters. Make sure your strongest letters are uploaded to ERAS and ready to assign.
- Build a target list. Research which specialties and programs often have unfilled positions and sponsor your visa.
- Prepare for fast interviews. SOAP interviews can happen with very little notice. Practise short, clear answers, including how to explain why you are in SOAP. Book a mock interview to practise.
- Plan Match Week. Take time off if you can, keep your phone and email close, and have someone to support you.
Want a SOAP plan made for you?
Book a residency strategy consultation. A Resiyay physician advisor will review your situation, help you choose a back-up specialty and target list, and prepare you for Match Week, so you are ready if you need SOAP.
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Or compare packages for ongoing support
If you do not match in SOAP
It is not the end of your career. After SOAP, you may contact remaining unfilled programs, and many physicians match on a later attempt with a stronger application. Our residency reapplicant guide explains how to plan your next year.
Related reading: How to find IMG-friendly residency programs · Residency reapplicant guide for IMGs
Frequently asked questions
How many programs can I apply to in SOAP?
You have 45 applications in each application service for the whole of SOAP.
Can I contact programs during SOAP?
No. During SOAP you must wait for a program to contact you. After SOAP ends at 9 p.m. ET on Thursday, you can contact remaining unfilled programs.
Can I apply to a different specialty in SOAP?
Yes, if you are eligible for the position. Many applicants apply to preliminary or other specialty positions during SOAP.
Is a SOAP offer binding?
Yes. Accepting a SOAP offer creates a binding commitment, just like a match.
