Studies of virtual interviews (VI) for residency lack contemporaneous In-person Interview (IPI) comparators, leaving uncertain the impact of interview mode on the match process. The study aims to evaluate the effect of allowing candidates to choose interview format, the VI versus IPI, on demographic characteristics of candidates and on rank order list (ROL) position.

A Cohort study of residency applicants (2022-2023 recruiting season) to a general surgery training program. 105 applicants were invited for interview, of whom 84 candidates were interviewed. Invited candidates were allowed to choose between the following interview options: 1) In person only, 2) Virtual only, 3) In person, but would accept virtual, 4) Virtual, but would accept in-person, and 5) No preference/either. The main outcomes were the differences in demographics of candidates and relative ROL position based on interview format.

Most candidates preferred VI (63%), while 26% preferred IPI and 11% had no preference. 43 VI and 41 IPI were conducted. VI candidates were more likely female (62.8% vs. 31.7%, p = 0.004), attended more distant medical schools (609 [207.5, 831] miles vs. 161 [51, 228] miles, p < 0.001), had higher USMLE scores, and better letters of recommendation. IPI candidates were more likely to have signaled interest (19.5% vs. 4.7%, p = 0.037) and were scored higher for interest in the program/area (4.34 ± 0.48 vs. 4.00 ± 0.62, p = 0.007). The format of interview was not associated with ultimate rank position by either univariate or multivariable analysis.

Among applicants for residency training positions, allowing a choice of interview format was associated with significant demographic and academic differences between those interviewing virtually versus in-person but had little ultimate effect on ROL position.