Rationale and objectives: The author determined which criteria were important to program directors for selecting candidates for diagnostic radiology residency.
Methods: A questionnaire was sent to all radiology residency program directors. They were asked to rank 20 criteria they considered important in a written application. Miscellaneous questions about their program's selection process, including the interview, also were asked.
Results: The overall response rate was 69%. Statistical analysis of responses showed significant differences between geographic regions and types of programs (university versus private hospital). Class rank and medical school grades were found to have the highest rating of importance. Nearly half of responding programs use a score sheet to evaluate the written application. On average, almost 60 candidates are invited to interview for approximately five available positions.
Conclusions: Criteria believed to be important for selection and the radiology resident selection process show significant differences among programs. These can be correlated partially with the location and type of program.