Frequently Asked Questions

Our program was reviewed by the ACGME Surgery Review Committee at their September 2021 meeting and conferred a status of Initial Accreditation! Interested candidates should submit an application through ERAS.

We do not have minimum USMLE score requirements but prefer candidates who pass the exams on their first attempt.

Our program recruits for 3 categorical positions each year for a total complement of 15 positions. 

Absolutely-the Willis-Knighton General Surgery Residency Program is invested in the growth, development, and success of our residents. The Office of Graduate Medical Education will support resident publication and presentation at local, regional, and national conference in accordance with institutional practices. 

Yes! We welcome international medical school graduates to apply to our program.

We sponsor J-1 visas on a case-by-case basis for qualified applicants. 

We prefer candidates who pass the USMLE exams on the first try but evaluate candidates from a holistic perspective. 

Our program accepts either COMLEX or USMLE exam scores. 

Orientation begins at the end of June. The academic year for PGY-1 residents begins on July 1^st.

Willis-Knighton has a proud tradition of educating medical schools, and recently has expanded their academic affiliations to include numbers allopathic and osteopathic schools, including:

• LSU School of Medicine
• Tulane University School of Medicine – New Orleans, LA
• New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYIT) at Arkansas State – Jonesboro, AR
• Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM) – Fort Smith, AR
• Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) at ULM – Monroe, LA

Medical students from these institutions will be working with our surgical residents, and the program will also provide regular education for Residents as Teachers (RasT). 

All categorical PGY-2 positions for the program are currently filled.