Characteristics of matched international medical graduates in a private Saudi university and factors predicting number of interviews

International medical graduates (IMGs) from the Middle East face unique challenges in the US residency match process. Alfaisal University (AU), a private institution in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has consistently achieved match rates above the global IMG average, warranting investigation into the characteristics and predictors of success among its graduates. This study examines matched AU graduates' profiles and identifies factors associated with the number of residency interviews received, to inform strategies for future IMG applicants. A cross-sectional, survey-based study was conducted among AU graduates who matched into US residency programs between September 2023 and September 2024. The survey, modeled after the NRMP questionnaire, captured demographics, academic metrics, clinical and research experiences, and match outcomes. Statistical analysis included univariate and multivariate linear regression to determine predictors of interview count. A total of 92 matched AU graduates participated. Most were first-time applicants (89.6%) and directly matched (96.7%). The mean Step 1 and Step 2 clinical knowledge scores were 247.1 ± 10.5 and 251.2 ± 12.8, respectively. Participants reported an average of 6.1 research experiences, 5.3 work experiences, and 2.6 electives. In multivariate analysis, the number of US clinical electives (β: 1.10, P = .02) and non-visa-requiring status (β: 5.53, P = .001) were significantly associated with a higher number of interviews. AU IMGs demonstrated competitive academic and research profiles relative to their US and international peers. Key predictors of interview success were completion of US clinical electives and not requiring a visa.