How do I request a Structured Reference Letter?

In the R-1 Main Residency Match, there are numerous disciplines requesting Structured Reference Letters. To request a Structured Reference Letter:

1. Log into your CaRMS Online account and go to the MY DOCUMENTS.
2. From the drop-down menu, select REFERENCE REQUESTS.
3. Click on the + icon situated under the instructions.
4. Under the Requirement Type field, select SPECIFIC DISCIPLINE.
5. Under the Discipline field, select the discipline in questions.
   

Note: while the above screenshot depicts a request for an Orthopedic Surgery Structured Reference Letter, Family Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Psychiatry and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation also have structured reference letters in the R-1 Match.

6. Fill out the required fields and click SAVE, when completed.

7. Click on the SEND button.

Note: You are given the option to attach a CV or photo to your reference request. These documents must be in your CaRMS Online account in order to do so.

8. Click on the SUBMIT button to have the system send the request to the referee directly. A reference request cannot be edited once it has been submitted.

9. If the Structured Reference Letter is in it's trial year, and thus an applicant support form, you must send the referee the link to the form or the PDF via email. The following disciplines require you to send the form directly to the referee:

• • Psychiatry
    • Link is not yet available, but will be available by the opening of the 2025 R-1 Match.
  • Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
    • You can find the link to the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Structured Reference Letter here.

Note: when a Structured Reference Letter is in it's trial year, it will be considered an Applicant Support Form.