Use signals on programs you would genuinely consider and where the signal can communicate meaningful interest. First remove programs that do not fit eligibility or firm constraints, then balance fit, competitiveness, geography, program characteristics, and specialty-specific signal rules.
What to remember
- Check specialty rules
- Signal genuine interest
- Do not waste signals on ineligible programs
- Avoid using prestige alone
- Document the reason for every signal
Create the eligible universe
Filter programs by required graduation year, exams, visa sponsorship, accreditation, specialty prerequisites, and any clearly stated screening rules. A signal cannot repair an application that does not meet a firm requirement.
Score fit before prestige
- Training environment and patient population
- Program mission and curriculum
- Geography and support system
- Fellowship or career alignment
- IMG history and visa policy when relevant
- Your real willingness to rank the program
Use tiers as constraints, not predictions
Where specialties use signal tiers, follow the official definitions. Do not treat a high-tier signal as a promise of an interview or a low-tier signal as a casual choice. Each allocation should survive the question: would I be happy to interview and potentially train here?
Keep a decision log
For each signal, record the specific fit evidence, concerns, and information source. This improves allocation and later gives you authentic material for interviews and letters of interest when appropriate.
Questions students ask
Do all specialties use the same number of signals?
No. Signal availability and tiers can differ by specialty and season. Use the 2027 MyERAS specialty guidance.
Does a signal guarantee an interview?
No. It communicates interest within the applicable program and specialty process; programs still evaluate the whole application.
Primary references
Policy and format details were reviewed against these sources on August 8, 2026. Always verify a rule before making an application or scheduling decision.
AAMC 2027 program signalingOfficial source ↗