Residency Application Headshots

U.S. medical school graduates upload their photos in MyERAS, ECFMG handles IMG residency photos, and EFDO handles fellowship photos.

Residency photo upload route by applicant typeThree labeled route cards: U.S. medical school graduate to MyERAS, IMG applicant photo handled by ECFMG, and fellowship applicant photo handled by EFDO.Choose the route before checking the fileU.S. medical schoolgraduateMyERASIMG applicant photoECFMG / MyIntealthFellowship applicantEFDO
Route map based on AAMC’s published photo workflow. Confirm the instructions currently shown for your own application.

Prepare the final photo file

Use a clear photo with a centered face, then confirm the file type and size against the current AAMC instructions. The AAMC Photo page lists JPG/JPEG or PNG and a maximum file size of 150 KB. A separate AAMC residency-applicant documents page also lists 2.5 × 3.5 inches and 150 DPI; follow the current MyERAS instructions if they differ.

Watch the matching video (0:44): Residency Application Headshots: Upload Routes and File Checks

Four checks before choosing a residency headshot fileA sequence showing photograph, file format, file size, and the route-specific upload screen.Check the exact file you plan to uploadPhotoclear and centeredFormatroute-specificSizecheck current limitUploadofficial portal
A practical review sequence, not an extra official checklist or a guarantee of acceptance.

Use the correct upload route

The AAMC says U.S. medical school graduates upload their own photo in MyERAS. ECFMG is responsible for uploading photos for IMG residency applicants. EFDO is responsible for fellowship applicant photos. Refer to the current AAMC Photo guidance for the workflow that applies to you.

Assign the photo thoughtfully

The photo can be assigned to saved or applied-to programs from the relevant MyERAS program or documents pages. AAMC says that once a photo is assigned to a program you have applied to, it cannot be unassigned. Review your program selections before assigning the photo.

Check before upload

Use the ResidencyHeadshot.com checker to inspect the selected file in your browser. It does not upload your photo to this site. The checker provides informational estimates; it does not replace AAMC, ECFMG, EFDO, or program instructions.