AAFP Award for Excellence in Graduate Medical Education

Give Your Hard Work the Spotlight it Deserves  

Applications are currently closed and will reopen in early 2026. 

The prestigious AAFP Award for Excellence in Graduate Medical Education honors a select number of commendable residents for their exemplary patient care; their interpersonal relationships with patients, physicians and faculty; and their demonstrated leadership and community involvement.

Since its founding in 1952, more than 1,000 second-year resident recipients have received this distinguished honor. Here’s why you should apply to be among them:

• Selective: 12 recipients are selected each year from a national pool of highly qualified residents.
• Recognizes Excellence: Winners are evaluated  on their leadership, academic performance, patient care and community involvement.
• Financial Support: Recipients will receive a $2,500 scholarship as well as three nights of hotel accommodations, airfare and registration for the 2025 Family Medicine Experience. This year FMX is October 5–9 in Anaheim, CA.
• National Recognition: AAFP, a leading professional organization, confers prestige and significant career distinction among peers, mentors and potential employers.

Eligibility Requirements

• Current AAFP resident member (Not a member? Join today!)
• Eligible members in their 2nd year of training at an ACGME-approved family medicine residency

Criteria for Selection

• Demonstrated leadership ability.
• Community involvement/social commitment.
• Exemplary patient care and interpersonal relationships.