During your first session, a tutor will assess where you are in the application timeline, review your current CV and personal statement drafts, and identify your specific strengths and areas needing development. Together, you'll create a personalized action plan that prioritizes the most impactful improvements for your target programs and specialty.

One-on-one instruction allows tutors to tailor guidance to your unique profile, specialty goals, and application weaknesses—whether that's strengthening research experience, refining your narrative, or developing interview confidence. Group courses follow a standardized curriculum, while personalized tutoring adapts in real-time based on your progress and the specific feedback residency programs are likely to give.

Many students struggle with crafting a cohesive personal statement that tells their story authentically, addressing red flags like board exam scores or research gaps, and preparing for behavioral and specialty-specific interview questions. Others find it difficult to prioritize which experiences to highlight or how to position themselves competitively for their target specialty and program tier.

Yes. Tutors conduct mock interviews, provide feedback on your communication style and storytelling, help you develop thoughtful responses to common and difficult questions, and coach you on specialty-specific topics. They also help you research programs, prepare questions to ask, and build confidence so you can present your best self on interview day.

Most students benefit from starting tutoring 3-6 months before ERAS opens, allowing time to refine your CV, develop your personal statement, and prepare for interviews. The exact timeline depends on where you're starting—some students need help from the ground up, while others join later to focus specifically on interview prep or statement polishing.

Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who have direct experience navigating the residency application process—many are physicians, recent residents, or senior residents who understand what programs are looking for. They bring real insight into specialty-specific expectations, interview trends, and what makes applications stand out.

Contact Varsity Tutors to get matched with a tutor experienced in residency application coaching. You'll discuss your specialty, timeline, and specific goals, then connect with someone who can provide personalized guidance tailored to your profile and target programs.