Each year, the faculty interviews approximately 70 applicants for five residency positions. 

Two groups of residents are selected: three residents for the five-year clinical training program, and two residents for the seven-year research track. 

Application Process

  • Applications must be submitted via ERAS.
  • U.S. medical students: Contact your Dean’s Office.
  • International medical graduates: Apply through ECFMG. J-1 visa sponsorship is preferred.
  • An ECFMG certificate must be included with your ERAS application.

Licensure Requirements

  • Apply for an Iowa medical license three months before training begins.
  • Use the Uniform Application (UA) via the Iowa Board of Medicine.
  • Practicing without a license is prohibited by Iowa law.

ERAS Submission Checklist

  • ECFMG certificate (if applicable)
  • Personal statement
  • Dean’s letter
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • USMLE scores
  • Transcript
  • NRMP registration
  • Optional photo

Tracks

Apply to only one track:

  • 5-Year Clinical Track – No supplemental application required.
    • The clinical track program provides four years of immersive, hands-on training across all otolaryngology subspecialties. As residents advance in their clinical skills, they gradually assume increased responsibility for patient care at University of Iowa Health Care and affiliated training sites throughout Iowa.
  • NIH funded 7-Year Research Track – Requires a one-page supplemental application. Details provided upon application.
    • Applicants to the 7-year research residency track must be either U.S. citizens or permanent resident holding a valid Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). Individuals on temporary or student visas are not eligible for this program.
    • In accordance with NIH policy, no individual may receive more than five years of aggregate NIH support at the predoctoral level and three years at the postdoctoral level. This includes any combination of support from NIH institutional research training grants (T32). For full eligibility details, please refer to the NIH Grants Policy Statement: NIH Kirschstein-NRSA Eligibility.

Interview Day Overview

We are excited to welcome applicants to our Otolaryngology Residency Program at University of Iowa Health Care. Our interview process is designed to give you a comprehensive look at our training environment, faculty, and resident culture.

Interview Invitations

  • Initial invitations will be sent on November 6, 2025, between noon and 6 p.m. EST (11 a.m.–5 p.m. CST)
  • Additional invitations may be extended to fill unclaimed slots

What To Expect

  • Insightful conversations with faculty and residents
  • A detailed look at our clinical and research training tracks
  • A warm, collegial atmosphere that reflects our program culture
  • A guided introduction to Iowa City’s community, amenities, and lifestyle

Interview Format

  • All interviews will be held in person at University of Iowa Health Care in Iowa City.
  • The night prior:
    • Social event with our residents
    • Location: TBD
  • The day includes:
    • A welcome session with program leadership
    • Interviews with 11–13 faculty members, each lasting approximately 15 minutes
    • Opportunities to meet and interact with current residents
    • A tour of our clinical and research facilities
    • A tour of Iowa City and learn more about life as a resident here

Interview Dates 2025–2026

  • 5-Year Clinical Track (In-Person)
    • Saturday, December 6, 2025
    • Wednesday, December 17, 2025
  • 7-Year Research Track (In-Person)
    • Thursday, January 15, 2026

Applicant Volume

We host approximately 24 applicants per interview day, ensuring a personalized and engaging experience

Board Certification

Medical specialty certification in the United States is a voluntary process which serves multiple purposes for the trainee and the public.

Our program aims to produce trainees who meet board eligibility criteria.

Certification:

  • Distinguishes a physician as someone with a distinct level of expertise
  • Provides more opportunities when applying for employment
  • Presents resources and tools by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS)
  • Reflects a commitment to lifelong learning and patient care
  • Elevates physicians into the ranks of doctors committed to the highest standards of healthcare

For more information visit the American Board of Otolaryngology for specifics on board certification requirements