What Happened to the Dietetic Match? A Guide to the New DI Application Process
It’s the end of an era! Match Day for future dietetic interns is officially a thing of the past. In this post, we’ll share the reasons for the change in the dietetic application process. We will also share exactly what to expect with the new application and dates you should know!
First, let’s dive into the reason behind the change to the dietetic internship match process.
Why Did They Get Rid of the DI Match?
Before we cover the “why”, some background information about dietetic internships might be helpful.
Up until very recently, getting into a dietetic internship was very competitive. Future interns applied to several programs and both parties ranked their top choices. Then on “match day”, students would be matched to a program. There were more applicants than internship spots and securing your “golden ticket” was a huge feat.
However, in recent years, the number of dietetic internship programs has grown, while the number of students in nutrition programs has declined. According to ACEND, 70% of positions in 2019 were filled through the match process, but only 38% were filled through the match in 2023 (ACEND Program Enrollment Trends).
In addition to declining enrollment numbers, many students and programs expressed concerns about the match day process. Some students found the process to be confusing and they were unsure about how to rank programs to maximize their chance of getting a match. Other programs reported unfair recruitment approaches.
To address these concerns, a task force was created in 2023 to identify a better and more equitable application process for dietetic internship programs. The task force included students, educators, program directors, and ACEND/NDEP council members. Together they devised new guidelines and then gathered feedback from key stakeholders. These guidelines and the new application process will be piloted starting with the Fall 2024 application process. Additional changes are likely after the pilot program in 2024.
In the next section, we will cover what to expect with the new dietetic internship application process.
What Will Replace the Dietetic Internship Match?
The new dietetic internship match process will function very similar to applying to undergraduate or graduate school. Applicants can apply to and be accepted to multiple programs.
This student-centered approach is designed to help you decide which program is the best fit for you without the guesswork of the match process. The new application process is very similar to applying to graduate programs or even undergraduate programs, where you might apply to several programs all with different application deadlines.
The main difference is that you only have to complete one centralized application- DICAS. Sorry to break it to you, DICAS is not going away. (It’s just the D&D platform for matching that has been eliminated).
The tricky part to note though is that programs will still have different program requirements and now may also have different due dates. More on that in just a moment!
Remember, in the past, the majority of programs participated in the D&D match process and had the same program deadlines (February 15th for Spring Match). Now programs can set earlier deadlines if they prefer. Some programs like ours will also have an Early Decision/Priority deadline.
What to Expect with the Application Process
- The 2024/25 Application Cycle will open starting on August 5th. This is the earliest date that applicants can apply to a program, but you’re welcome to start working on your application sooner.
- The majority of programs will likely follow the ACEND recommended application deadlines, but make sure you confirm deadlines with each program.
- Fall Application (January 2025 Start): September 15
- Spring Application (August 2025 Start): February 15
- Applicants will be notified of an offer by November 1st (Fall) or March 1st (Spring). This deadline is the absolute last day programs have to notify applicants of a decision so you may receive a status on your application prior to this date.
- Applicants must then notify programs of their acceptance or decline of the offer by November 15th (Fall) or March 15th (Spring).
- Some programs, including KBDI, will also offer a “priority” option. Applying to early decision, means that you’ll also be notified of your acceptance into the program earlier.
- Fall Priority Application (January 2025 Start): October 15, 2024
- Spring Priority Application (August 2025 Start): January 15, 2024
What Are the Benefits of Applying Early?
Applying via the Priority/Early Decision option is a great choice if you’re confident about your top DI program.
Other benefits include ⬇️
- Save $500 on your KBDI tuition!
- Reduced application fee of $40!
- Securing an internship spot early & avoid the need to apply to multiple programs
- Enjoy your final semester of undergraduate without the stress of waiting to hear back from applications in March
- Our video requirement is optional for Priority Applicants!
- Get early and ongoing support from KBDI directors!
Why is the New Dietetic Internship Application Process Better?
Provides choices for the intern.
First, it is intern-centered. The new application process allows students to apply to multiple programs and then review multiple offers before making a decision.
Reduces stress.
Second, it reduces the stress and anticipation of match day. Applicants can also opt to apply early and many programs will over rolling admissions. Future interns may also be able to secure an internship slot early, meaning they can focus on their final semester of school instead of applications.
Saves money.
Applicants will no longer have to pay a fee for match system. In addition, interns will no longer have to “guess” how the match works and likely can apply to fewer programs.
Some applicants may choose to apply to their top choice early and wait for a decision before they apply to other programs.
Frequently Asked Questions About the New Application Process
How does it work if I apply to and get accepted to multiple programs?
Applicants will have the opportunity to review the offers and make the best decision for him/her. Applicants must accept or decline an offer by the final decision date (November 15th for our January start, March 15th for our August start).
Can I accept a program offer and then decline it if another program makes a better offer later on?
This is strongly discouraged. Some programs may also require a deposit to hold your spot. Accepting and then declining an offer will likely result in forfeiting your deposit. If you’re considering multiple programs, then wait to review all offers before making a decision. Programs can offer you a spot early, but cannot force you to make a decision before the final decision deadline. *They may offer incentives such as a tuition discount for early decision.
Can I apply for the August 2025 start now?
Yes! The 2024-25 application cycle will open up on August 5, 2024. You can get an early start on your application and submit it early if you’re confident you know which program is best for you.
Will all programs be following this new process?
Dietetic Internship programs are encouraged to adopt this new system, but it won’t be required until 2025.
Conclusion- The New DI Application System is Student-Focused
Starting in the summer of 2024, dietetic internship programs will be piloting a new application process that eliminates the need for the match process. The benefits of this student-centered approach include more flexibility and less stress for future interns.
Confused? We understand this process might sound more confusing. We’re more than happy to answer questions and provide additional application support.
About the Author
Kelan Sarnoff, MS, RD is a registered dietitian with over a decade of experience in nutrition. She has worked in academia for the past 4 years and taught graduate-level courses including medical nutrition therapy. She loves helping future dietitians and interns discover their passion. She also works as a career coach.