As a response to the increasing number of students who do not match in the first or second iteration of their CaRMS cycle, the College of Medicine has created a fifth year program. This program (i.e. the Clerkship Extension Course) works to assist students in various areas of their professional portfolio so that they can enter the CaRMS match cycle for the following year. More information can be found on the College of Medicine website but here’s a quick overview!
What are the main components of the year 5 program?
- Career advising and mentoring
- Research
- Clinical electives
- Clinical experiences
How can I be eligible to enroll in a 5th year at the College?
- Complete all of the academic requirements for years 1-4
- Actively participate in the first and second iteration of CaRMS match (i.e. interviews, rank order list submission, etc.)
- Unsuccessful match result following both iterations of the CaRMS cycle
- Opting not to apply for graduation from the College of Medicine MD Program
What can I expect from this additional year?
- Working closely with the UGME and Office of Career Advising and Mentoring to develop an individualized learning plan focused on any areas of deficiency
- Complete another set of electives (18 weeks)
- Participate in mock interviews, personal letter writing, and CV workshops
- Engage in individualized development and reflection over the course of the year
- Carry out a research or medical education project
- Participate in clinical sessions and teaching
- Ongoing mentorship with a local physician
- Graduate with the next year’s cohort
How successful is the year 5 program?
Since its implementation into our curriculum for the past 2 years, all of our students have been successful in matching!