A QUESTION OF TIMING: WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SURVEY GRADUATES TO OBTAIN FEEDBACK ABOUT AN EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM?

When follow‐up surveys of graduates of Health Professional programs are used to obtain evaluative information about program components and processes, the timing of such a survey is an important consideration. Information may be collected at various points in time: at program end while the graduates are still on the premises, or at varying points after the graduates leave the educational institution. Follow‐up surveys of four classes of medical students and five classes of nursing students conducted at varying points in time are used to examine the effect of timing on the program feedback obtained. Graduate assessment of program features was consistent and stable even several years after program completion. Surveying students regarding their perceptions of their education shortly before graduation is recommended. This is less costly and provides information to program planners when it can have more immediate impact on program planning.