Residency Recruitment
Applying to UK PM&R
The University of Kentucky College of Medicine Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) offers a 4-year categorical program that provides a challenging yet rewarding resident education, focusing on building broad foundational knowledge while also supporting specialty interests of individual learners. We pride ourselves on building not only cohesive teams within each PGY level, but a balanced yet robust residency class to support peer mentorship and growth.
Our program currently offers seven (7) PGY-1 positions (1848340C0) for the 2026-2027 academic year through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), and all applications are submitted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Once submitted, applications are holistically reviewed and candidates are selected for interview based on a range of factors and qualities. We welcome all interested parties to apply or reach out with questions.
REQUIREMENT |
DETAILS / ADDITIONAL INFO |
|---|---|
Completed Application in ERAS |
Deadline to Apply is 12/1/2025. |
Personal Statement |
Please include information on why you chose PM&R as a specialty of interest, as well as any unique attributes or experiences outside of medicine. We want to know YOU! |
USLME / COMLEX Score Reports |
Applicants are only required to provide scores for USMLE or COMLEX, but are welcome to submit scores for both. Step 1 and 2 required (as applicable). |
Medical School Transcript and Performance Evaluation (MSPE) |
Official transcript as well as MSPE are required |
3 Letters of Recommendation (LOR) |
At least one must be a SLOE; additional letters accepted. |
Dean's Letter |
In addition to the LORs listed above |
Recent Photograph |
Please note the requirements listed in ERAS for photos. |
Additional documentation as required in circumstances including |
Prior graduation from medical school; prior GME training; IMG documentation, etc. |
Additional Info
Foreign Medical Graduates
UK PM&R encourages any International Medical Graduates to apply for our program. Additional requirements include:
- J-1 Visa sponsored (other visas not sponsored / accepted)
- Must be ECFMG certified by June 30th of the year starting residency
Please note that all visa decisions are made by the Graduate Medical Education office, not PM&R, and questions regarding this process should be addressed to their preferred contact.
Foreign Medical Graduates
UK PM&R encourages any International Medical Graduates to apply for our program. Additional requirements include:
- J-1 Visa sponsored (other visas not sponsored / accepted)
- Must be ECFMG certified by June 30th of the year starting residency
Please note that all visa decisions are made by the Graduate Medical Education office, not PM&R, and questions regarding this process should be addressed to their preferred contact.
About UK
The University of Kentucky is the land grant institution for the state of Kentucky, and is comprised of a vast network of education and healthcare facilities. Click below to learn more:
About UK
The University of Kentucky is the land grant institution for the state of Kentucky, and is comprised of a vast network of education and healthcare facilities. Click below to learn more:
About Lexington
We are located in the heart of the Bluegrass Region - with sights and activities to entertain the mind, body, and spirit.
To explore all our beautiful city and state have to offer, head on over to VisitLex or Discover Kentucky!
About Lexington
We are located in the heart of the Bluegrass Region - with sights and activities to entertain the mind, body, and spirit.
To explore all our beautiful city and state have to offer, head on over to VisitLex or Discover Kentucky!
Interview Process and Information
UK PM&R utilizes ERAS, Thalamus, and Zoom to ensure a seamless interview experience with a secure and reliable connection to our availability, communications, and more. Last year we saw success in the strategic collaboration between Thalamus and AAMC, and are excited for the innovations across the transition to residency process that will be implemented for the 2025 season. These systems will be used in tandem with zoom for UK PM&R's interview experience. You can learn more on this strategic collaboration the Thalamus or AMC websites.
Residency Resources
Prior to interviewing, all candidates are encouraged to visit the UK GME Prospective Resident and Fellows page to review information related to:
- Stipends and Benefits
- Contracts
- GME Policies and Procedures
- Required Interview Forms
This information applies to all resident learners at UK, so check it out!
Interview Dates and Availability
We offer a total of 7 interview dates that will be held between Oct - Jan. Candidates selected to interview will receive an invitation from Thalamus. Important things to note:
- UK PM&R does not send more invitations than interview slots
- Candidates are given 48 hours to schedule before the waitlist is activated
- Candidates are able to schedule, reschedule, and waitlist themselves on preferred dates
Schedule and Events
Resident Meet & Greet
Candidates are invited to join optional Resident Meet and Greet session the evening prior to their interviews. This virtual event takes place from 7-8 p.m., and is a learner only event - no faculty allowed!
Interview Day Schedule
Interviews are completely virtual (zoom) and occur from 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. EST, where candidates will meet with various faculty, residents, chat with the program director, and more.
Sample Schedule
| Time (EST) | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10 a.m. | Login |
| 10 - 11:30 a.m. | Welcome from the Program Director |
| 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | Lunch |
| 12:30 - 3:20 p.m. | Interview Sessions (and Breaks) |
| 3:20 - 3:30 p.m. | Group Questions |
| 3:30 p.m. | End of Day |
Frequently Asked Questions
"Do I have to rotate with UK PM&R to be offered an interview?"
No, in fact many of our current residents did not rotate with us!
Note: rotating with UK PM&R does not guarantee an interview invitation.
"Do I have to rotate with UK PM&R to be offered an interview?"
No, in fact many of our current residents did not rotate with us!
Note: rotating with UK PM&R does not guarantee an interview invitation.
"Do I have to signal the program to be offered an interview?"
No, a signal is not required however it is part of our overall consideration when reviewing applications.
Read the overview for program signaling at AAMC.
"Do I have to signal the program to be offered an interview?"
No, a signal is not required however it is part of our overall consideration when reviewing applications.
Read the overview for program signaling at AAMC.
"When will UK PM&R send interview invitations?"
Applications opened in ERAS on Sept. 24th, 2025 and we are actively reviewing at this time. We plan to send initial invitations by mid October.
"When will UK PM&R send interview invitations?"
Applications opened in ERAS on Sept. 24th, 2025 and we are actively reviewing at this time. We plan to send initial invitations by mid October.
"Does UK PM&R offer second look opportunities?"
Currently we are evaluating this option and will post updates once we have more info.
"Does UK PM&R offer second look opportunities?"
Currently we are evaluating this option and will post updates once we have more info.
Contact Us
If you have questions or need additional information, please contact
Leslie Justice, C-TAGME
GME Program Manager, Sr.
leslie.justice@uky.edu
859-323-8244
For the quickest and more comprehensive responses, please use the preferred email contact information