Survey of the 2020 Fellowship Council application and match process and the impact of COVID-19

Background The interview process represents a necessary but potentially resource intensive process from applicant and program perspectives. This study aimed to identify opinions of the 2020 Fellowship Council (FC) application and match process and in-cycle transition to virtual interviews due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Surveys were developed to assess the interview process and were distributed by the FC to all applicants and fellowship programs. Completion was voluntary and data (median [IQR] reported) were anonymous. Results Applicant response was 53%. Applicants submitted 27.5 (13.25–40) applications, were offered 10 (4–17) interviews, and ranked 10 (5–15) programs. Due to COVID-19, 74% of interview plans changed. Applicants completed 30% of their planned in-person interviews. For decision-making, 90% felt that in-person and 81% virtual interviews were sufficiently informative. Expected cost was $4750 ($2000–$6000) vs. actual cost $1000 ($250–$2250), ( p