To bring this series to a close, I’m going to keep this piece short. Similarly to dental school, if you have made it this far, you’re ready for it to be over. So, congratulations to making it to D4 year, and for the exciting journey that lies ahead! Although this year has its hurdles, it is also the time where you reap the rewards of hard work. Exploring new programs, meeting future colleagues, and catching a breath from school are just some of the great things about interview season and D4 year. Other things to be concerned with are completing boards/licensure, matching, and graduating from dental school, of course. By now, you have also had enough experience in clinic that you are hopefully more efficient and less stressed. Use what free time you have either relaxing or sharpening your skills in the OMFS department. For more information on rank lists and matching, check out the article, “How the Dental Match Works.” As interview season approaches, I’ll do my best to write articles pertinent to that subject, and continue to construct the “Applying to Residency” page. Until then, good luck and keep working hard!
DISCLAIMER: Even though this is the “traditional” OMFS timeline, which includes matching your D4 year, don’t let that assumption get in the way of finishing strong. Too many applicants have applied, and, for whatever reason, have not matched. To bolster a future application in case of this continue to make the best grades possible D4 year.
Important D4 Dates:
July: Submit PASS
August-January: Accept and attend interviews
December 19, 2016: Rank lists open for Match
January 12, 2017: Final date to register for Match
January 13, 2017: Final date for rank lists
January 30, 2017: Match results released
April: Pass boards and licensure by this date*
May: Graduation
*Licensure required for many programs and to moonlight, if allowed.