Ranking medical specialties by competitiveness?

I'm a junior starting to explore the medical field, and I was wondering if anyone could give me a breakdown of medical specialties ranked by competitiveness. I want to know what I'm getting myself into before I commit. Thanks in advance!

Hello! Medical school competitiveness can vary year to year, but here's a general ranking of some of the most popular specialties based on factors like the competitiveness of residency programs, average Step 1 and Step 2 scores, research experience, and number of publications during medical school:

1. Neurosurgery: Known for being highly competitive, with long hours and high expectations for residents. It requires substantial clinical and research experience during medical school, as well as excellent board scores.

2. Orthopedic Surgery: Also very competitive, often requiring high board scores and research experience. They seek candidates with extensive clinical experience and strong letters of recommendation.

3. Dermatology: High board scores and significant research are essential in this competitive field, with a focus on clinical dermatology and/or related basic science research.

4. Plastic Surgery: Applicants need strong academics, a high number of publications, and solid research experience to be competitive in this specialty.

5. Ophthalmology: A highly competitive field that requires a strong academic record, high board scores, and substantial research experience in ophthalmology.

6. Otolaryngology: This specialty is fairly competitive, preferring candidates with high board scores, surgical experience, and/or research in the field.

7. Radiation Oncology: Applicants should have a strong academic record, research experience, and high board scores to be competitive in this field.

8. Diagnostic Radiology: While not as competitive as some other specialties, diagnostic radiology still requires solid academics, research experience, and good board scores.

9. Anesthesiology: This field has a moderate level of competitiveness, preferring applicants with higher board scores and relevant research experience.

10. Emergency Medicine: A more competitively accessible field, although strong academic performance and board scores are still important.

11. Internal Medicine: Moderately competitive, but it's essential to have good clinical performance and board scores.

12. Family Medicine: One of the least competitive fields, with less of an emphasis on board scores; however, a strong interest in primary care and community medicine is crucial.

13. Pediatrics: Similar to Family Medicine, Pediatrics is less competitive and favors candidates genuinely interested in child health and well-being.

Keep in mind that factors like board scores are less important than they used to be, and overall the application process is holistic, considering multiple areas of your academic and personal background. Additionally, this list shouldn't dissuade you from pursuing any particular specialty! It's essential to find the area that genuinely interests you and aligns with your long-term goals. Best of luck in your journey to explore the medical field!