Is October to late to start an away AI?

I'm interested in this as well. I am planning an away in Sept and am wondering if Oct is too late.

I started a rotation in Oct. and I matched at that program this year. I didn't need a letter, just went for the experience and loved the program I was at.

Good Luck

where are you planning to rotate?

I rotated at a program in November and had a phone call that I would be able to match there if I choose. Also, a guy I know had a situation where he had to rotate somewhere in December and it all worked out for him.

it's definitely possible, but tougher to get a letter since most programs are due around Oct 31/Nov 1 on ERAS. I did one but didn't get a letter, and it was no problem come match day. It will get your name known at that particular place. My suggestion would be to mention where you are doing aways in your personal statement so people know you did it (not sure if it will be read but worth a try). good luck

I also started a rotation in mid October and loved it and matched at that program. Also did get a letter which I sent in later. Don't know how it affected things but I'm happy with the overall results.

I have nothing scheduled from Nov 21 to Dec 18 so I was considering doing a third away rotation (my application is on the weaker side). Wouldn't be going for a letter, just the experience.

I was just wondering if I'm going to be shooting myself in the foot if interviews are in the first few weeks of December and I keep on having to leave my away?

Any thoughts or previous experiences are appreciated.
Thanks!

You can look on the "Interview Offers" thread and see the dates for interviews last year. It seemed like there were quite a few that had Dec (and even a few with Nov) interview dates. Some places offer multiple interview dates (eg a December and January date) so that you could try to schedule the date after your rotation is over, but I would not want to have to ask for any time off to travel for interviews. I feel like I would need to be fully committed during my month at a program.

This is coming from a current MS3, though, so there may be folks who have been through this and can offer better advice.