National Resident Matching Program® (NRMP®)

The National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), also known as The Match, is a private non-profit organization established in 1952. It provides a centralized system for matching medical students and graduates with residency and fellowship training positions in U.S. teaching hospitals. The program was created to address the chaotic hiring practices of the 1940s and 1950s and has evolved significantly since its inception. NRMP's primary service is its proprietary matching algorithm, which pairs applicant preferences with program directors' preferences to ensure stable and unbiased outcomes. The organization oversees the Main Residency Match, which fills approximately 85% of PGY-1 positions, and offers specialty fellowship matches throughout the year. With over 6,000 participating programs, NRMP supports U.S. MD/DO students, U.S. citizens, and international medical graduates. The organization continues to adapt to the needs of learners and residency programs under the leadership of Dr. Donna Lamb.