Are interviews offered at the end of sub-internship rotations?

Students completing a visiting rotation will have an exit meeting with the program director Dr. Eugene Tsai to provide feedback for both the applicant as well as the sub-I experience. A formal invitation for a formal residency interview will be released in the Fall to selected applicants and rotators.

When are interviews offered?

Please see the Application Information page. This year interviews will be offered in January 2024. Our admission committee is comprised of both faculty and residents. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply for a visiting student rotation with our program. Annually we interview approximately 60-65 applicants.

Is there a minimum USMLE score requirement to be considered?

Applications are reviewed holistically with an emphasis on academic performance, letters of recommendation, performance on standardized examinations, professionalism, research, life experience, and community engagement. Interested students are encouraged to apply for a sub-internship rotation. While historically >90% of our invited interviewees have had a USMLE > 230, we consider all aspects of an applicant’s background. 

Is there a research requirement? Is a research year offered?

Residents are required to complete both a junior and senior hypothesis-driven manuscript. All projects must be pre-approved and periodically reviewed by the resident research committee, chaired by Dr. Thordarson. Previous resident projects have ranged from basic science investigations, clinical registry projects and biomechanical studies. Funding is available from a variety of industry sources and several residents have received grants from the Orthopaedic Research Educational Fund (OREF).  

Interested residents have the opportunity to pursue a dedicated research year and obtain a Masters in Health Delivery Science (MHDS) through Cedars-Sinai. If a resident intends to pursue a dedicated research year, the planning and discussion should begin by the end of the PGY-2 year to allow time to develop the plan for a structured and highly productive year. Each opportunity is considered on an individual basis. Salary and benefits for the research year are supported by the department and typically occurs between PGY III-IV year. For more information please visit: https://www.cedars-sinai.org/education/graduate-school/masters/mhds.html

Where do residents live in Los Angeles?

Many residents choose to live near the hospital, West Hollywood is a popular location. Residents also live in nearby neighborhoods of La Brea, Pico-Robertson, and Westwood. The average commute is 10-25 minutes driving, although some residents are within walking distance.

Cedars-Sinai is located close proximity to diverse restaurants, shopping, entertainment and nightlife. Hiking and going to the beach are possible all year around!