SnapOrtho · ERAS

Guide to ERAS Ortho Applications

Your orthopaedic residency application hub—dates, requirements, signaling, MSPE/LORs, and a built-in checklist.

ERAS Progress

Checklist completion0%

Next Date

Sep 24, 2025

Programs begin reviewing (9:00 AM ET)

Timeline

Key ERAS Dates

Early June

Get one-time access code & register with MyERAS

June 4, 2025

ERAS season opens (9:00 AM ET)

Aug 1, 2025

Request LORs (eSLOR + personal). Forego right to read.

Sept 3, 2025

Can submit ERAS application

Sept 24, 2025

Programs begin reviewing (9:00 AM ET)

Application

Build a compelling ERAS application

Headshot

Professional headshot (school photo day works).

Personal Statement

Use multiple reviewers (ortho mentor + non-ortho reader).
Share PS + CV with letter writers early.

Letters of Recommendation

LoR are the most important part of your application.
Request by Aug 1 → arrival by Sept 1; follow up kindly.
Get 3-4 letters from orthopaedic surgeons you work with, 1 research letter is good too but would not have multiple research letters since they cannot comment on you clinically.
Use eSLOR when supported; traditional LORs OK.

MSPE & Transcripts

Review MSPE (June/July) to align content.
USMLE transcript: transmit via ERAS.
School uploads medical transcript.

Meaningful Experiences

10 entries (≤ 750 chars) + 3 Most Meaningful (+300 each).
Select entries that complement PS/LORs; mix ortho + non-ortho.
Draft early because you may get busy with aways.

Program Selection & Signaling

Be strategic—signal 30 strong-fit programs.
Reserve a few for reaches with real ties.

Signaling strategy: Focus your 30 signals on programs where you have fit and genuine interest; consider a few reaches if you have a clear connection.

Keep your story consistent across PS, experiences, and LORs.

MD / DO Toggle

Residency selection guidance

Target programs at/above your historical metric range.

Ask about each program’s strengths and weaknesses, including case volume, subspecialty exposure, and fellowship match outcomes.

Prioritize mentorship pipelines + research support.

Use signals for fit/geography; avoid over-dilution on long shots.

Choose aways that complement strengths; secure home + away LORs.

Cost snapshot

Apply to 30 signaled programs$330+ additional fees

Each additional application after 30$30 ea

Keep a buffer for transcript fees and photo services; travel/interview costs live on a separate page.

Quick filters to build a smart list

• Resident roster mix (MD/DO), case volume, fellowship matches.

• Geography & support systems; night float vs q4 call; trauma level.

• Research infrastructure and mentorship stability.

Action Center

Your ERAS checklist

Tasks

Register in MyERAS (get code from school)
Draft 10 experiences + 3 Most Meaningful
Personal Statement v1 → peer/mentor review
Meet MSPE writer (June/July)
Request LORs by Aug 1 (eSLOR when possible)
Upload headshot
Transfer CV (education, awards, research, etc.)
USMLE transcript + school transcript
Program signaling set (~30) + target list
Final Review
Final Submission

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Helpful notes

• Align PS, experiences, and LORs around 3–4 themes.

• Double-check dates, authorship order, and conference names.

• Ask letter writers early.

• Spend time curating a very good list. Not too competitive and not too safe.

FAQ

Common ERAS questions

Quick answers to the questions applicants ask most. Open each item to learn more.

How should I request letters of recommendation?

Ask by early August to give writers time to submit by early September. Waive your right to view the letters and provide your CV + personal statement so they can write specifically to your strengths.

How many letters of recommendation should I request?

Ask faculty who can write a strong letter. You may upload up to four letters and assign different ones to different programs. In a small field like orthopaedics, letters from known mentors can significantly improve your chances of getting an interview.

How many programs should I apply to?

You should apply to 30 programs that you signaled. You should only apply to a program without a signal if they do not participate in signaling.

Do programs see where else I signaled or applied?

Programs know only whether you signaled them. They do not see your full list of signals or other applications.

What is the difference between a research experience and a research item?

There are 2 distinct sections in the ERAS application where you can describe research. Research can be described in the experience section and the publication section . The publication section is where all your research items will go such as peer-reviewed articles (accepted and submitted), poster presentations, and podium presentations.

How do I address a gap year, low score, or other red flag?

Be concise and factual: acknowledge the issue, state what changed, and highlight objective improvements (clinical performance, research output, new responsibilities). Keep the focus on growth and current readiness.

Can I update ERAS after I submit?

Some sections allow limited updates; many are locked once submitted. If you have a meaningful new publication, award, or rotation, you can notify programs by email or during interview day.