Residency Preparation Checklist: What to Do Before Starting Medical Residency

Graduating from medical school is an amazing accomplishment — congratulations! You’re about to embark on an incredible journey as a family medicine resident physician. But before you dive in, there’s a lot to consider and organize. It might feel overwhelming, but don’t worry, you’ve got this! Let’s break it down into eight steps.

1 Celebrate Your Accomplishments and Take Some Time to Reflect

2 Confirm Your Residency Program Details

3 Tackle Paperwork and Licensing Requirements

4 Update Your Contact Information

5 Review Finances and Establish a Budget

6 Plan Your Move and Secure Housing

7 Prepare for Residency Program Kickoff

8 Build a Strong Support System

Get residency advice directly from recent medical school graduates

Making the jump from med school to residency is a wild ride—exciting, exhausting and full of surprises. In this episode of AAFP's Inside Family Medicine podcast, we’re getting real about what that transition looks like, from the tough moments navigating relocation and finances to all the exciting "firsts" you can anticipate. Hear straight from two family medicine residents and a residency program director as they share what they’ve learned, what they wish they had known sooner and the best advice they’ve got for making the transition to residency a little easier. Listen using the player below.

1. Celebrate Your Accomplishments and Take Some Time to Reflect

You’ve worked so hard to get here, and you deserve to take a moment to pause and savor this milestone. Relax, recharge and reconnect with the people who’ve supported you along the way.

Thinking of a vacation? Go for it! Or maybe you’d prefer simply spending extra time with loved ones who’ve been cheering you on.
Take care of yourself—emotionally and physically—so you’re ready to care for patients soon. (Need ideas? AAFP members can access well-being resources like meditation audios and more.)
Don’t forget to finish up any lingering med school goals or electives that excite you. Also, double-check that you’ve fulfilled all graduation requirements.

Cheerful young friends laughing and giving high five outdoors.

2. Confirm Your Residency Program Details

Getting started at your residency program is thrilling — but make sure you’re clear on the logistics so there are no surprises.

Watch for emails or calls from your program coordinator about your start date, orientation and next steps.
Ask about relocation assistance—some programs offer great perks for incoming residents!
Reach out to your future colleagues. Building connections with other new residents early can make a world of difference.
Share dates you’d like to request off work for conferences, events and personal matters. Your schedule is going to start filling up fast!

African-American woman woman speaks on a mobile phone with a cup of coffee in her hands against the background of the facade of an office business center.

3. Tackle Paperwork and Licensing Requirements

We know—paperwork isn’t fun. But knocking this out early will save you headaches later.

Sign your acceptance letter and residency contract after reading everything carefully.
Start your medical license application for the state where you’ll be training. It can be a lengthy process, so don’t wait!
Complete pre-employment essentials like background checks and drug screens.

Young man with glasses sitting at a desk writing on a paper attached to a clipboard against a brick wall background.

4. Update Your Contact Info

Before you bid farewell to med school, make sure everyone who needs your new info has it.

Your medical school, financial aid organizations, alumni groups and professional societies should all be kept in the loop.
Match Day news is exciting—who else would you love to share it with?

Smiling woman exchanges business card with man.

5. Review Finances and Establish a Budget

Let’s talk money. Transitioning from student life to resident life brings changes, and starting with a solid financial plan will give you peace of mind.

Set the foundation for your long-term financial goals by making sure you have a solid plan to handle any student loan debt.
Residency pay is a step up from student life, but it’s worth looking at the cost of living in your new area. Build a budget that’s realistic and aligns with your goals.
Consider insurance. Although your residency program might offer a small disability insurance policy in case a disability stops you from working as a physician, consider whether you want to purchase extra protection. Most residency programs cover medical malpractice insurance for the duration of your residency, but you may need to consider purchasing tail coverage for when you complete residency. What about life insurance? Are there gaps you need to fill?
Think about how a long-term investment strategy fits with your goals, and work with a professional who can help structure an optimally tax-advantaged plan.

Focused young female calculates utilities before make online payment.

6. Plan Your Move and Secure Housing

This is your chance to create a living situation that feels just right for this stage of life.

Research neighborhoods near your program. Would you prefer to be close to work or have a longer commute for more space or affordability?
Decide whether roommates or living solo will best suit your lifestyle.
Don’t forget to set up utilities and internet before you move!

Happy young couple packing belongings in cardboard boxes, preparing to move into first new house.

7. Prepare for Residency Program Kickoff

It’s almost time to jump in! Here are a few things you can do now to set yourself up for success.

Brush up on clinical guidelines and procedures for your first few rotations.
Explore extracurricular learning opportunities tailored to family medicine, such as community health initiatives or research projects. You might discover a new passion that enhances your residency experience.
Inquire if your program includes automatic AAFP membership. As an AAFP member, you have access to valuable resident resources. Update your profile so you don’t miss out on any of your member benefits.
Step confidently into your role as a family medicine resident. Attend orientation, embrace your new responsibilities and get ready to make a difference in the lives of patients and families in your care.

Side view of brunette woman in eyeglasses sitting near the tree in park and writing something on notebook.

8. Build a Strong Support System

Residency can be a demanding experience, but leaning on a dependable support network can help ease the challenges and reduce stress.

Mentors in your specialty can offer invaluable guidance—if you don’t already have one, start looking now.
Keep in touch with loved ones! Even a quick text or call can remind you of the support that’s always in your corner.
Your fellow residents will understand exactly what you’re going through. Build those relationships and support each other through the ups and downs. Lean on your old medical school classmates, your new resident colleagues and like-minded peers in your field when you need someone who understands.

Group of intern staking selfies in the lobby of the hospital.

You’re stepping into a new chapter—and it’s one filled with growth, learning and meaningful impact. Remember to take things one step at a time and trust in all that you’ve achieved. You’re ready for this, and your friends at the AAFP are cheering you on every step of the way!

More for Residents

Preparing for the Family Medicine Board Exam

Career Choices in Family Medicine

Family Medicine Fellowships

Residency Wrap-up Checklist

Third-Year Electives During Residency

First Year Post-Residency Education Package