Medical school interviews are an integral part of the admissions process. These interviews allow medical schools to assess the personal qualities of applicants and determine whether they are a good fit for the program. There are different types of medical school interviews, each with their own unique characteristics and requirements.

In this article, we will discuss the different types of medical school interviews and provide tips on how to succeed and prepare for each type.

Traditional Interview

The traditional interview is a common type of medical school interview. It is typically conducted in person and involves a one-on-one interview with a member or panel of the admissions committee. The goal of the traditional interview is to assess the applicant’s communication skills, critical thinking abilities, and motivation for pursuing a career in medicine. Applicants can expect questions related to their personal experiences, ethical dilemmas, and their reasons for pursuing medicine.

Tips for success:

  1. Practice your communication skills: The traditional interview requires excellent communication skills. It is essential to practice your communication skills by speaking with people who are not familiar with medical terminology. This will help you articulate your thoughts in a clear and concise manner.
  2. Research the medical school: Research the medical school and familiarize yourself with their mission statement and values. This will help you understand what the admissions committee is looking for in applicants.
  3. Prepare for common questions: Prepare for common questions, such as “Why do you want to pursue medicine?” and “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” Practice your responses to these questions to ensure that you can articulate your thoughts clearly and concisely.

Multiple Mini Interview (MMI)

The Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) is a relatively new interview format that has gained popularity in recent years. The MMI is designed to assess the applicant’s ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and make ethical decisions. It consists of a series of timed stations, each with a different scenario or question. Applicants rotate through the stations, and each station lasts between five and ten minutes.

Tips for success:

  1. Practice your time management skills: The MMI is a timed interview format, and applicants have a limited amount of time to respond to each station. Practice your time management skills by practicing scenarios or questions that require quick decision-making.
  2. Be yourself: The MMI is designed to assess the applicant’s personal qualities, so it is essential to be yourself. Avoid memorizing responses or trying to present yourself as someone you are not.
  3. Read ethical scenarios: The MMI often includes ethical scenarios, so it is essential to familiarize yourself with common ethical dilemmas and be prepared to make decisions quickly and confidently.

Group Interview

The group interview is a less common interview format that is used by some medical schools. It involves a group of applicants who are interviewed simultaneously by a panel of interviewers. The goal of the group interview is to assess the applicant’s teamwork and communication skills, as well as their ability to think critically and make decisions in a group setting.

Tips for success:

  1. Listen actively: Active listening is critical in a group interview. Listen carefully to what others are saying and respond thoughtfully and respectfully.
  2. Collaborate effectively: The group interview is designed to assess the applicant’s ability to work collaboratively. Be prepared to contribute your ideas and work effectively with others.
  3. Be respectful: Respectful behaviour is essential in a group interview. Avoid interrupting others or speaking over them, and be respectful of diverse opinions and backgrounds.

Virtual Interview:

The virtual interview has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is similar to the traditional interview, but it is conducted remotely using video conferencing software such as Zoom or Skype. The virtual interview requires the same level of preparation as the traditional interview, but it also requires additional preparation related to technology and presentation.

Medicine interview coming up?

Medicine Answered can help. We have a wealth of free content available on our website to help you in your medical school interview preparation. Have a look at our extensive database of medicine interview questions where we critically analyse different types of medicine interview questions and how to answer each one effectively.