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Abstract

Purpose: To determine residency program directors’ (PD) perceptions of the ophthalmology match process, particularly regarding their opinions on a potential "application cap" that would limit the number of programs to which an applicant can apply. Methods: An Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology (AUPO)-endorsed survey targeted U.S. PDs from the 2021 and 2022 cycles. A survey was initially distributed on 02/14/2023 with a single email reminder approximately 3 months later. All responses were anonymous and collected via a secure Qualtrics link. Results: Of the 45/121 PD respondents (37.2% response rate), 88.9% supported an application cap and suggested a median of 40 (interquartile range: 33.75-50) programs per applicant. Additionally, 93.3% agreed that applying to less programs will not disadvantage URiM candidates or hinder the goal of DEI in ophthalmology. PDs highlighted the following benefits of capping: sharper applicant focus, holistic reviews, and reduced costs. Concerns with capping included biases against international medical graduates and osteopathic applicants and fostering an anticompetitive attitude. Conclusion: The majority of PDs support an application cap. Such a move may reduce administrative and financial burden, while enabling a holistic application review. Whether through an application cap or other means, reducing the number of applications that programs receive is likely to benefit all parties.

Received Date

29 Feb 2024

Accepted Date

30 Sep 2024

Online Available Date

4 Feb 2025

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