Below you will find a list of frequently asked questions about the Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine Residency Program. If you have additional questions that are not answered here on this page, please send them to apmresinfo@uw.edu.
The University of Washington provides broad clinical training across a diverse range of practice settings, including quaternary academic medicine, trauma care, pediatric anesthesiology, Veterans Affairs healthcare, and community-based experiences. As part of the UW School of Medicine and the WWAMI region (Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho), residents train within a healthcare system that serves a large and geographically diverse patient population across the Pacific Northwest. Graduates are well prepared for fellowship training, academic medicine, private practice, and leadership positions.
Residents train at several sites within Seattle, including:
These sites provide exposure to diverse patient populations, clinical conditions, and healthcare systems.
Residents participate in a comprehensive curriculum that includes didactic conferences, simulation training, case-based learning, board preparation, subspecialty education, journal clubs, and faculty-led teaching sessions throughout residency. Additional information about our educational curriculum and learning opportunities can be found on our Residency Curriculum page.
Yes. Residents have access to a wide range of scholarly and research opportunities through the Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine and the University of Washington. More information on specific research programs can be found on our Research Opportunities page.
Residents interested in global health can get involved through the UW Global Anesthesia INitiative (UW-GAIN), which offers educational, research, advocacy, and mentorship opportunities focused on improving access to safe surgical and anesthesia care worldwide. Residents also have opportunities to participate in global health electives and other global health experiences during training.
Residents receive mentorship from faculty members, fellows, chief residents, and senior residents. Formal and informal mentorship opportunities are available throughout training.
Resident well-being is a departmental and institutional priority. Residents have access to wellness programming, confidential counseling services, mentorship resources, and wellness support through UW GME.
Yes. The department pays for resident memberships to the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) and the Washington State Society of Anesthesiologists (WSSA).
Yes. Incoming residents receive core educational resources, and residents receive an annual academic stipend to support educational and professional development activities.
Please visit our Salaries & Benefits page for current compensation and benefit information.
We support residents at all stages of life, including those with children and those planning to grow their families during training. Residents have access to parental and family leave benefits, and program leadership works closely with trainees to provide support and flexibility throughout major life events.
Additional family-building, parenting, and caregiver resources are available through UW GME.
Seattle offers residents the opportunity to train at a premier academic medical center while living in one of the most dynamic regions in the country.
The city blends vibrant urban neighborhoods, diverse food and cultural experiences, and easy access to the outdoors. Whether you enjoy exploring local restaurants and coffee shops, attending sporting events and concerts, or spending time hiking, skiing, biking, or kayaking, Seattle offers something for nearly every interest. Residents appreciate the ability to balance the demands of residency with the many recreational and community opportunities available throughout the Pacific Northwest.
Residents live throughout the Seattle area based on their commute preferences, lifestyle, and family needs. Popular neighborhoods include Capitol Hill, Fremont, Wallingford, Green Lake, Ballard, Queen Anne, Eastlake, and the University District, among many others.
Some residents choose to live closer to downtown amenities, while others prefer neighborhoods with a quieter residential feel or easier access to outdoor recreation. Seattle’s growing public transportation system offers convenient access to many neighborhoods and training sites, allowing residents to choose the commute option that works best for their individual needs.
Graduates pursue a variety of career paths, including academic anesthesiology, private practice, subspecialty fellowship training, research careers, military medicine, and healthcare leadership.
Applications are accepted through ERAS. All application materials must be submitted through ERAS before the application deadline. Additional information can be found on our Application Process page.
Applicants submit a single ERAS application and signal. Separate applications are not required for those who wish to apply to multiple tracks. Applicants may rank the categorical, advanced, Bonica, and/or Critical Care Medicine tracks individually in ERAS and can update their preferences throughout the application season.
Yes. Applicants must have passed USMLE Steps 1 and 2 (or COMLEX Levels 1 and 2 for osteopathic applicants) to be considered for an interview.
Yes. We welcome applications from both MD and DO programs.
Yes. Qualified IMG applicants are encouraged to apply. Additional information can be found below in our IMG & Visas FAQ.
The Department follows University of Washington GME, ACGME, and institutional policies regarding resident eligibility, recruitment, and selection. Applicants are evaluated using a holistic review process and standardized selection procedures designed to identify candidates who will thrive in our learning environment and contribute to our mission. The residency selection committee carefully reviews all application components when determining interview invitations.
Interview days are typically held during October, November, and December. Applicants invited to interview will receive detailed information regarding interview schedules, logistics, and virtual programming. Applicants being considered for the Bonica Research Track will be invited to participate in a second dedicated interview in January.
Interview invitations are generally released in mid-October through Thalamus. Specific dates may vary from year to year.
Yes. Current residents host a virtual resident meet-and-greet prior to interview days, providing applicants an opportunity to learn more about the program and resident experience. Residents also participate in portions of the interview day and are available to answer questions.
Program signals are the best way for applicants to demonstrate interest in our residency program. We encourage applicants to use their signals according to their preferences. All applicants who signal our program will undergo a holistic review of their application.
We review applications using a holistic approach, including consideration for an applicant’s experiences, achievements, and academic performance. We encourage applicants to submit a thoughtful, complete application that accurately reflects their interests, accomplishments, and career goals.
The program does not currently offer formal in-person second looks. Virtual revisit sessions (via Zoom) are typically offered in January and provide an opportunity for applicants to ask additional questions and connect with current residents, faculty, and program leadership. Applicants are encouraged to take advantage of the resources provided throughout the recruitment season and are welcome to explore Seattle independently if they have the opportunity.
Yes. We welcome applications from qualified International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and foreign nationals. Applicants must meet all eligibility requirements established by the University of Washington Graduate Medical Education Office (UW GME), the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), and the residency program. Visa sponsorship and immigration-related determinations are managed by UW GME. Please note that applicants who are not currently authorized to work in the United States are eligible only for J-1 visa sponsorship at this time.
Yes. IMG applicants participating in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) must have their examination requirements verified by ECFMG by the NRMP Rank Order List (ROL) deadline.
All applicants must meet program-specific, institutional, and specialty-specific eligibility requirements. Additional considerations may include educational credentials, medical school documentation, clinical experience, licensure eligibility, and other factors required for appointment and credentialing.
U.S. clinical experience is strongly recommended but not required. Applications are reviewed holistically, taking into account an applicant’s complete educational and professional background.
IMG applicants are evaluated using the same holistic review process as all other applicants. We consider academic achievement, clinical performance, leadership, service, scholarly activity, professionalism, and alignment with the program’s mission and goals.
The UW GME Office facilitates J-1 and H-1B visa sponsorship for eligible residents in ACGME-accredited programs. Requests for H-1B sponsorship are reviewed on a case-by-case basis in accordance with UW GME policies.
No. Visa eligibility, sponsorship determinations, and immigration requirements are managed by the UW GME Office and applicable sponsoring agencies.
Yes. Residents must meet all requirements necessary for residency training and licensure in Washington State.
Applicants who require visa sponsorship are encouraged to review UW GME resources early in the application process to understand sponsorship requirements, timelines, and eligibility criteria.
For the most current information, please visit UW GME IMG Resources and UW GME Visa Information.