chdz05

I'd also say it really depends. For sure strong evaluations and good references are needed but I'd say that in some programs grades might be an issue. For example, if for a program there's more than 100 applicants and you don't have the strongest grades, well you could get cut before even getting an interview. A good friend of mine applied in a specialty that was super competitive this year and didn't get any interviews in the province of Quebec most probably because of her grades (she had done research and presented, president of a committee at school, many rotations in the specialty, etc.). If you have an average of B- or more I'd say you're pretty much safe. But then again, some programs might do the cut before depending on the number of applicants (i.e. obgyn in montreal). Step 1 could help you if you want to apply in the states and also if you wanna look for a fellow in a couple years. Don't think it helps for the canadian program. But then again, carms is still a big mystery to all of us. Some people don't get interviews and we don't know why and some people do and we wonder why Best of luck!