Transitioning to ResidencyCAS: What Emergency Medicine Applicants Can Learn from OBGYN's First Year

Transitioning to ResidencyCAS: What Emergency Medicine Applicants Can Learn from OBGYN's First Year

Olivia Voltaggio, OMS-IV
RVUCOM-SU
EMRA MSC Editor

              The 2024-2025 application cycle brought a significant shift for OBGYN residency applicants as they became the first specialty to fully adopt ResidencyCAS, a new centralized application system developed by Liaison. With Emergency Medicine (EM) set to join the platform for the next application cycle, EM applicants are understandably curious—and perhaps a bit anxious—about what to expect. Fortunately, insights from OBGYN applicants reveal a largely smooth and user-friendly transition with practical advice that can help ease the way.

A Seamless Transition for Most

              One of the most reassuring messages from recent OBGYN applicants is how intuitive and straightforward the ResidencyCAS system felt. Many noted that although it was their first time applying to residency, the platform resembled familiar systems like AMCAS or the Common App. Features like demographic details, educational background, and activity descriptions closely mirrored ERAS, making it easy for advisors and mentors to continue offering guidance.

“Honestly, it’s not as daunting as you might think. The site is easy to navigate, and there were no glitches for me.”

Support Was Readily Available

              Although some institutions initially struggled with the change, most students reported that ResidencyCAS webinars and platform guides filled in the gaps. Several applicants said their schools relied heavily on ResidencyCAS’s official materials to get students and faculty up to speed, and the webinars were especially helpful.

“We were invited to Zoom calls, and ResidencyCAS had very clear instructions. It was enough for me to feel confident completing the app.”

              Additionally, the system offered quick support responses to technical or process-related inquiries, which many applicants appreciated.

What EM Applicants Should Know

              While Emergency Medicine may not have direct alumni experience with ResidencyCAS, you can draw from the OBGYN cohort's experience. A few key lessons emerged:

• Labeling activities and estimating hours were slightly confusing for some applicants, but not a major hurdle. It’s worth preparing these ahead of time and asking for feedback.
• Interview scheduling and offers come through a separate portal, so be vigilant about checking both the application and interview platforms.
• Cost savings were significant—many reported spending $600–900 less than peers using ERAS. Though details for EM are pending, this could be a notable advantage.

“ResidencyCAS is cheaper, better organized, and has a cleaner interface than ERAS.”

Advice from the Frontlines

              Applicants emphasized that focusing on the content of your application—your personal statement, experience descriptions, and letters—matters more than mastering the software. The platform will be new to everyone, but that shared learning curve creates a level playing field.

“Complaining about the platform change won’t help. ResidencyCAS is your reality—use it to build the best application possible.”

Final Thoughts

              Change is never without its learning moments, but OBGYN’s experience with ResidencyCAS should reassure EM applicants that the transition is not only manageable but potentially beneficial. By embracing the new platform early, attending webinars, and preparing your application content in advance, you’ll position yourself for a successful cycle—no matter what software you’re using.