On March 23, 2026, the Government of Ontario rescinded its previous policy direction requiring international medical graduates (IMGs) to have completed two years of in-province high school to be eligible for Ontario-based positions in the first of the 2026 R-1 Main Residency Match. Court proceedings on this matter have been discontinued.
We recognize that this policy and the related court proceedings have been of significant interest and importance to learners and faculties navigating the application and match process. We are pleased to share this update and to confirm that the Government of Ontario’s policy direction given for the 2026 R-1 match has been officially withdrawn.
Looking ahead to the 2027 R-1 match
At this time, eligibility criteria for the 2027 R-1 Main Residency Match have not yet been determined. While no changes have been formally announced at this stage, provincial criteria are reviewed annually and may be updated.