Feb 23, 1998
Tufts Medical Center Program
Overview
General Overview
The Program in Surgery at Tufts Medical Center offers a comprehensive general surgery residency that is recognized internationally for its exceptional clinical and scientific training. Designed to foster a welcoming atmosphere, the program emphasizes a broad spectrum of surgical education, including fields such as surgical critical care, advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgery, thoracic surgery, colorectal surgery, breast surgery, endocrine surgery, plastic surgery, and solid organ transplantation.
1Curriculum Structure
The residency program provides a structured educational framework that is rich in clinical experiences. Weekly protected time is allocated for didactic learning, ensuring residents have dedicated moments for instruction and skill development. This includes simulation training in state-of-the-art facilities, aimed at enhancing practical skills within a controlled environment. The program boasts a board passage rate exceeding 90%, indicating the high level of preparation the residents receive.
1Research Opportunities
Research plays a pivotal role in the residency experience at Tufts Medical Center. The program encourages residents to pursue research that aligns with their interests and career aspirations. Given Tufts' Boston location, residents have access to numerous clinical and basic science research opportunities. This flexibility in research pursuits helps residents to tailor their experiences according to their specialties and passion within the surgical field.
1Fellowship Placement
Residents who complete the program find themselves highly competitive in securing post-residency positions. The program has shown a strong track record of graduates matching into sought-after fellowships in several specialties, including pediatrics, plastic surgery, and minimally invasive surgery. This is indicative of the robust training and preparation they receive during their residency.
1Training Sites
Tufts Medical Center is one of the premier training sites for surgical residents. The facility is equipped with cutting-edge technology and has an environment that promotes learning and professional development. The diverse clinical settings provide a unique experience for residents, exposing them to a variety of surgical cases and patient populations.
2Visa Support
The program supports international medical graduates and is equipped to sponsor various visa types, enabling resident participation regardless of their national origin. This commitment to fostering a diverse residency pool is part of Tufts Medical Center's broader initiative to cultivate a rich educational environment.
1Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The Tufts Surgery Program is recognized as highly competitive. It welcomes applications from both US graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs). While specific requirements for application may include considerations such as graduation year and prior examinations, the program does not publicly declare a maximum number of failed STEP exams permitted. Interested candidates should prepare thoroughly and showcase their clinical experiences and academic achievements during the application process.
1Unique Aspects
A distinctive feature of the Tufts Surgery Program is its commitment to creating a supportive learning environment. The department places a strong emphasis on mentorship and collaboration among faculty and residents. This culture not only enhances education but also enriches the training experience, helping residents thrive both academically and personally.
1Web sources
SmartPick
Program data
ACGME History [3]
Program
Program Size
10, 5, 5, 5, 5 (5 years) [1]
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation
(Effective: January 15, 2026)
Composition [2]
Training
Fellowship Rate:85% [2]
Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:1X [1]
Residents Career Path [2]
Quality of Life
First Year Paid Sick Leave:Ā No Limit [1]
First Year Paid Vacation:Ā 15 days [1]
First Year Salary:Ā $81,577 [1]
First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:Ā 24 hours [1]
First Year Average Weekly Hours:Ā 75 hours [1]
Admission
USMLE Step 2 Score: 242ā268 [2]
Visa Sponsorship:J1 [2]
YOG Cutoff:2 [1]
Race / Ethnicity
Gender
Incoming Schools
36%
Tufts University School of Medicine
8%
Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
4%
More than 1 school has this rank*
* Multiple schools share the same admissions rate.
Rotation Duration by Site
Benchmarks
Match & stats
2026 Residency Applicant & Interview Insights
Signals
Hometown State
Medical School State
Step 1 Fail
Step 2 Fail
Applicant Type
Note: The AIR (Applicant Interview Rate) is calculated as the percentage of applicants in each category who were offered interviews. A higher AIR suggests stronger alignment with program preferences, indicating a greater likelihood of the program favoring applicants in this category.
USMLE STEP 2 CK Score [2]
COMLEX Level 2 Score [2]
No data available for COMLEX
Level 2 Score
Match History [4]
Roster
Publications
50 Publications (5 yr)
Peer-reviewed output from faculty and residents, last 5 years
50 Publications (5 yr)
A systematic review of contemporary randomized controlled trials for treatment of lower extremity lymphedema by intermittent pneumatic compression devices.
Type A acute aortic dissection complicated by preoperative myocardial infarction: Insights from the International Registry of Acute Aortic Dissection.
Location
Boston, MA [5]
- Above the national average
- Below the national average
- Similar to the national average
Housing ā Rental prices [6]
Rental prices
Crime ā All violent offences [7]
Rate per 100,000 residents
Living in Boston, MA
Crime Rate and Safety
Boston has a relatively higher crime rate compared to some other cities in the U.S., especially in certain neighborhoods. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions, especially at night.
Fun Activities
Boston is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and vibrant arts scene. Residents can enjoy visiting historical sites, museums, theaters, parks, and various festivals throughout the year.
Climate
Boston experiences all four seasons with cold winters and hot summers. Be prepared for snowfall in the winter and humidity in the summer.
Races and Population
Boston is a diverse city with a mix of races and cultures among its population. Residents can experience a lively multicultural atmosphere.
Education
Boston is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including Harvard University and MIT. Residents have access to top-notch educational opportunities.
Cost of Living
Boston is known for its relatively high cost of living, especially when it comes to housing and healthcare. It's advisable to budget carefully to manage expenses.
Proximity to Bigger Cities
Boston is located approximately 4 hours drive from New York City. New York City offers a different urban experience with its own cultural attractions, dining scene, and entertainment options.
Pros
- Rich history
- cultural diversity
- top educational institutions
- vibrant arts scene.
Cons
- High cost of living
- higher crime rate in certain areas.
FAQ
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Nearby programs
Surgery Programs Near Boston, MA
Other specialties near Boston, MA
References
1. Freida - https://freida.ama-assn.org/program/4402421134
2. Residency Explorer - https://www.residencyexplorer.org/Program/GetByIdWithMedicalSpecialty/6d40b8dd-1806-f411-14bf-06eb57ab7e56
3. ACGME - Accreditation Data System (ADS) - https://apps.acgme.org/ads/Public/Programs/Search
4. NRMP Results and Data: 2022-2026 Main Residency Match - https://www.nrmp.org/match-data/2026/03/program-results-2022-2026/
5. United States Census Bureau - https://data.census.gov/profile/City,_VS?g=160XX00US2507000
6. Zillow Research - Observed Rent Index (ZORI) - https://www.zillow.com/research/data/
7. FBI - Crime/Law Enforcement Stats (Uniform Crime Reporting Program) - https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/ucr