How to Register for the NRMP Main Residency Match: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re applying for residency, one of the most common points of confusion is this: registering for the Main Residency Match is not the same as submitting your residency application. Your application goes through ERAS (Electronic Residency Application Service) or ResidencyCAS. Your Match registration goes through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). You need both. Here is a clear walkthrough of how to register for the NRMP Match.
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Step 1: Start With Your Application Service
Complete your profile in ERAS or ResidencyCAS first. You don’t need an NRMP ID to submit your residency application, but having an AAMC ID is recommended.
Step 2: Create Your R3 System Account
Visit the NRMP website and open the Registration, Ranking, and Results (R3) system. Enter your participant type, full name, academic background, demographic details, contact information, and medical school information. Make sure everything matches your AAMC/ERAS profile and school records, since mismatches can cause delays.
Step 3: Enter Your Identification Numbers
Add the relevant testing and school IDs, such as your USMLE, AAMC, ECFMG, or NBOME numbers. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) should also keep close track of their ECFMG certification requirements.
Step 4: Set Up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Complete the security setup using a U.S. mobile number or email address. You’ll receive a six-digit verification code that is valid for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Sign the Agreement and Pay the Fee
Review and electronically sign the Match Participation Agreement, then pay the non-refundable registration fee. Register before the standard deadline to avoid the $50 late fee. Once payment is finalized, your R3 status changes to ACTIVE.
Step 6: Add Your NRMP ID Back to ERAS
Log back into your application service and enter your new NRMP ID. This lets program directors link your application to their rank lists correctly. Many applicants skip this step, so don’t forget it.
Key Dates for the 2027 Main Residency Match
- ● Registration opens: September 15, 2026, 12 p.m. ET
- ● Standard registration deadline: January 29, 2027
- ● Rank Order List (ROL) opens: February 1, 2027
- ● ROL certification deadline: March 3, 2027, 9 p.m. ET
- ● Match Week and SOAP: March 15–19, 2027
- ● Match Day: March 19, 2027
Tips for a Smooth Match Registration
Register early. There’s no advantage to waiting, and registering early saves you the late fee and last-minute stress.
Double-check your details. Names, school information, and ID numbers should be identical across ERAS, AAMC, and NRMP records.
Keep your login secure. Your R3 account is where you’ll later build and certify your rank order list, so protect your credentials and MFA access.
Track every deadline. The ROL certification deadline is firm. An uncertified list will not be processed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NRMP registration the same as ERAS?
No. ERAS handles your residency applications. NRMP handles the Match itself.
When does Match registration open for 2027?
September 15, 2026, at 12 p.m. Eastern Time.
What happens if I miss the standard deadline?
You can still register, but a late fee applies.
When is Match Day 2027?
March 19, 2027.
Final Thoughts
Registering for the Main Residency Match takes only a few steps, but each one matters. Start with your ERAS profile, create your R3 account, enter accurate IDs, sign the agreement, pay your fee, and update ERAS with your NRMP ID. Stay ahead of the January 29, 2027 deadline, and you’ll be ready for ranking season.