Extern Match

Applicant Help
Algorithm & Rankings

Algorithm & Rankings

How the Algorithm Works

  • How does the Match algorithm work?

    The matching algorithm uses the applicant Rank Order Lists, the track Rank Order Lists, and the number of available positions in each track to try to find the best possible outcome for each participant.

    The algorithm starts with an attempt to place an applicant into the track that is most preferred on the applicant's list. Each applicant's Rank Order List is traversed "downwards", from most preferred track to least preferred, until the first track is reached at which the applicant can be tentatively matched, or until the applicant's list of choices is exhausted. Each track accepts applicants "upwards" on its Rank Order List, continually removing less preferred matches in favor of more preferred applicants, until the track is matched to the most preferred applicants who wish to be matched to the track.

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Ranking Strategy

  • What is the best strategy for ranking?

    In order to get your best possible result, you should rank your choices in order of your true preferences. Your most preferred track should be rank #1, your next most preferred track should be rank #2, and so on. Rank all tracks at sites to which you applied that would be acceptable. Do not rank any track that you would not want to be matched to under any circumstances.

    The algorithm is specifically designed to try to give each participant their best result if they rank their choices in order of true preference. Using any other strategy may cause you to get a worse result for yourself. If you decide to order your preferences in another way (e.g., by how likely you think it will be to get into the site), you may not get the best possible result.

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Submit Rankings

  • How do I submit and certify my Rank Order List?

    Applicants must submit and certify their Rank Order List online in the Extern Match Portal by the Rank Order List deadline. The Rankings User Guide includes information on how to:

    • Import rankings from your applications or interviews
    • Add a track to your Rank Order List
    • Delete a track from your Rank Order List
    • Reorder a track on your Rank Order List
    • Certify your Rank Order List
    • Print your Rank Order List
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  • How do I submit my rankings if I want to match to two part-time positions?

    Applicants who are interested in ranking PENDELDOT sites that offer part-time positions (8 or fewer hours per week), and who therefore require two part-time positions to satisfy their externship training requirements, should submit rankings as a Dual Position applicant in order to be placed into two part-time positions.

    Currently, the only sites offering part-time positions are:

    • 353 - ABC Parenting Institute
    • 414 - CHOP - ADHD
    • 440 - CHOP - Cardiac Psychology Outpatient Consultation
    • 420 - CHOP - Endocrinology & Diabetes
    • 471 - CHOP - Feeding
    • 441 - CHOP - Gastroenterology & Urology Programs
    • 415 - CHOP - Health & Wellbeing Clinic
    • 442 - CHOP - Inpatient/Outpatient Consult & Intervention
    • 390 - CHOP - Neurology Intervention
    • 421 - CHOP - Oncology
    • 424 - CHOP - Sleep Program
    • 165 - HARBOR
    • 226 - Nemours Childrens Health, Delaware Valley
    • 309 - St. Christopher's Hospital for Children

    If you are not seeking a part-time position at one of the sites listed above, the instructions below do not apply to you.

  • Why did the system import some tracks that I did not interview for into my Rank Order List?

    Some sites with multiple tracks conduct interviews separately for each track, while others do not. Because NMS organizes interview data at the site level, it does not monitor which specific track Code Number you interviewed for. As a result, when you import your scheduled interviews into your Rank Order List, all tracks offered at those sites are added to your list. You’ll need to review your Rank Order List and remove any tracks you’re not eligible for or interested in ranking.

  • Can I rank a site where I didn't apply or receive an interview?

    Yes, although it is highly unlikely that you will match to that site. Sites typically review applications, interview, and evaluate applicants to determine who they are willing to accept into the site. If you did not apply or interview with a site, it is unlikely the site is considering you for a position. If you are not ranked by a site, you cannot match to that site.

  • What should I do if I do not want to submit a Rank Order List?

    If you decide not to submit a Rank Order List for any reason, you should withdraw from the Extern Match by the Rank Order List deadline. Applicants who withdraw are still able to access information regarding unfilled positions in the Post-Match Process. If you want to be included on the List of Unmatched Applicants that is provided to sites in the Post-Match Process, you should select the withdraw reason that indicates your are still seeking a position.

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  • What should I do if the track I want to rank is withdrawn?

    You should leave the withdrawn track ranked on your list. If you leave the track on your list and the track's participation status in the Extern Match becomes active before the Rank Order List deadline, that ranking will be used in the Match. If the track remains withdrawn, that ranking will not be used in the Match, and your list will be processed as if you had not ranked the withdrawn track.

  • Can I view my Rank Order List after the deadline?

    Yes. You will be able to view your Rank Order List until four days after the release of the Match results. However, you will not be able to change any information or certify a Rank Order List in the Extern Match Portal after the Rank Order List deadline.

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