Balancing the advanced phase of medical school with pregnancy, parenting, or caring for an aging family member brings unique logistical and emotional considerations—especially during residency application season. From scheduling away rotations and interviews to planning parental leave, relocation, or caregiving support, thoughtful preparation and early communication are key.
Our office is committed to supporting student caregivers with individualized advising around application strategy, timeline planning, leave policies, wellness resources, and institutional accommodations.
You do not have to navigate this alone—confidential guidance and practical resources are available to help you succeed personally and professionally during this pivotal transition.
How is Family Care Leave noted in the MSPE (Medical Student Performance Evaluation)?
- Family Care Leave will be noted as “Approved Leave” unless a student chooses to designate the leave as Medical/Personal/Family Care. This decision should be discussed with OSA.
- When applicable, deviations from the curriculum will be noted in the MSPE under the Academic History section in “Extensions, Leaves, Gaps or Breaks"
- Sample MSPE | [link here]
To what extent does being a parent during residency interviews impact Matching?
- It is an NRMP Match Violation to ask a candidate about Family Status.
- NRMP | Match Communication Code of Conduct
- Refraining from asking illegal or coercive questions
Program directors shall recognize the negative consequences that can result from questions about age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, and family status, and shall ensure that communication with applicants remains focused on the applicant’s goodness of fit within their programs.
- Refraining from asking illegal or coercive questions
- Any additional concerns that a student may have regarding being a parent or pregnant during residency interviews can be directed towards the Office of Student Affairs.
* Resources will be updated as often as appropriate. These resources are provided for informational purposes only. Inclusion does not imply endorsement, and we cannot assume responsibility for the content of external materials.
* The descriptions above are not a substitute for contacting and engaging with the OSA/Registrar to review each student’s individual circumstances. Questions or concerns not included within the Resources should be addressed with OSA directly.
Office of Student Affairs
University of Maryland School of Medicine
685 W. Baltimore Street, Suite 150
Baltimore, MD 21201
410-706-7476
studentaffairs@som.umaryland.edu