Appic match statistics 2023

The PsyD degree represents a distinctive approach to doctoral psychology education, emphasizing clinical practice over research. Unlike traditional PhD programs that prioritize academic research and theory, PsyD programs focus intensively on preparing students for direct patient care, therapeutic interventions, and clinical assessment. This practitioner-scholar model has revolutionized psychology education since its inception over five decades ago.

Recent data from the American Psychological Association reveals that PsyD programs now account for nearly 40 of all psychology doctorate enrollments, reflecting a fundamental shift in how mental health professionals are trained. With median salaries for clinical psychologists reaching 96,100 according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data, and specialized practitioners earning substantially more, the financial investment in a PsyD education continues to demonstrate strong returns.

Of the 774 participating internship sites, 275 (36) had at least one unfilled position in Phase I and are thus eligible to participate in Phase II. This includes 184 of 656 (28) accredited sites and 91 of 118 (77) non-accredited sites.

A total of 3,620 accredited internship positions were in the Match this year, the largest number ever and an increase of 86 positions (2) as compared to the 2022 Match. The number of non-accredited positions increased by 43 (13, from 342 to 385). Since 2012, the number of accredited internship positions in the Match increased 53, from 2,361 to 3,620.

Included in the numbers for accredited sites shown above are 15 sites that were designated Accredited, On Contingency. These 15 sites had 82 (36 of 44) of their positions filled in Phase I, with 9 of the 15 sites (60) filling all of their positions.

The landscape of mental health education continues to evolve dramatically in 2026, with Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) programs emerging as the preferred pathway for aspiring clinical practitioners. As mental health awareness reaches unprecedented levels and demand for qualified psychologists surges nationwide, prospective students face critical decisions about their doctoral education.

We are pleased to report that 3,319 applicants were successfully matched to internship positions in Phase I of the 2023 APPIC Match. A total of 49 of all applicants who obtained a position matched to their first choice internship program, 72 received one of their top two choices, and 85 received one of their top three choices.

A total of 483 applicants who submitted Rank Order Lists were not matched to an internship position in Phase I, while an additional 153 applicants withdrew or did not submit a Rank Order List. A total of 686 positions remained unfilled.