U.S. medical students learned their residency placements, with a record 93% of positions filled and many choosing primary care to address physician shortages.

On Match Day 2026, medical students nationwide celebrated securing residency placements, marking the culmination of years of study and a pivotal step toward becoming licensed physicians. Events were held across the U.S., with students from institutions including the University of North Dakota, University of Florida, and University of Iowa learning their placements through the National Resident Matching Program. Graduates matched into specialties across 27 states, with many choosing primary care and some staying in their home regions to serve underserved communities. The National Resident Matching Program reported the largest match yet, with over 53,000 applicants and 93% of positions filled. Students expressed joy, gratitude, and determination, while leaders emphasized the importance of compassion, service, and addressing the nation’s growing physician shortage.