University of Minnesota Program

The Independent Interventional Radiology Residency Program at the University of Minnesota is an ACGME-accredited program offering in-depth training for diagnostic radiology residents who wish to specialize in interventional radiology. The program has one available slot for the upcoming residency match for the 2026-2027 academic year. This residency offers options for both a one-year training program with an Early Specialization in Interventional Radiology (ESIR) designation, as well as a two-year independent IR training position.

Residents who are currently enrolled in an ESIR pathway and have completed the first year of interventional radiology training in their home institution during their R4 year are eligible to directly enter into the second year of the Independent Residency. This structural design aims to streamline training for residents who have already begun specialized training. Graduates from this program will be qualified to sit for the Interventional Radiology/Diagnostic Radiology (IR/DR) examination provided by the American Board of Radiology (ABR). The IR/DR certificate demonstrates a resident's competency in both diagnostic and interventional radiology fields 1.

Application Requirements

To apply for the Independent Interventional Radiology Residency Program, candidates must submit a complete application via ERAS. Important application components include three letters of recommendation (one from the Radiology Residency Program Director), a Dean's letter (MSPE), a personal statement, a curriculum vitae, official medical school transcripts, and all USMLE and/or COMLEX examination scores. Additionally, a recent photograph is required. The deadline for application submissions is December 5 1.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for appointment to the Independent IR Residency requires that candidates are currently diagnostic radiology residents in good standing at an ACGME-accredited program. Applicants must have successfully passed the ABR core exam prior to admission to the residency program. For international applicants, certification by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) is necessary, ensuring compliance with US medical training requirements 1.

ESIR Applicants

For candidates applying under the ESIR pathway, documentation must be submitted, including a letter from their Program Director verifying acceptance into ESIR. Additionally, block diagrams outlining all four years of the diagnostic radiology residency must be included in the application through ERAS. These requirements establish a foundation for applicants transitioning into the specialized interventional training phase 1.

Visa Support

The Independent Interventional Radiology Residency Program provides visa sponsorship for international medical graduates. Sponsorship can include various visa types, commonly J-1 visas, suitable for residents participating in clinical training programs in the United States. The program follows institutional visa policies, facilitating the process for eligible applicants 1.

Competitiveness

Entering the Independent IR Residency Program is highly competitive. The selection process emphasizes the qualifications and achievements of applicants, particularly their performance in medical school and residency, as well as their USMLE scores. This program is generally receptive to DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) graduates and welcomes international medical graduates (IMGs), provided they meet all application requirements and eligibility criteria 1.

Unique Aspects

The Independent Interventional Radiology Residency at the University of Minnesota emphasizes a culture of independence in learning combined with rich hands-on teaching opportunities. Residents benefit from high patient study volumes, fostering an excellent educational environment in interventional radiology. Additionally, there are opportunities to engage in research projects, further enhancing the residency experience and preparing physicians for future academic or clinical practices 2.

Current Residents and Alumni

The program showcases the success of its current residents and alumni, who have pursued diverse career paths following graduation. Alumni feedback highlights the well-rounded training and exceptional learning environment that characterizes the residency program at the University of Minnesota, indicating satisfaction with the volume of hands-on training and collaborative opportunities with faculty and peers 2.