UK medical school interview tips

Get expert advice and tips on how to pass your UK medical school entrance interview.

The UK medical school interview

Admission into UK medical schools is highly competitive, and succeeding in your medical school interview is essential to improve your chances of being accepted into your chosen school. In the interview, you’ll be quizzed on areas like:

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Medical knowledge
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The core qualities of a doctor
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Ability to work in a team
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Ability to work under stress
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Ability to multitask and communicate effectively
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Knowledge of the institute’s course and modules
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Motivations for pursuing medicine as a career

Medical school interview types

Depending on the medical school you’re applying to, you may be required to attend one interview (the traditional format) or multiple-mini interviews (MMIs). MMIs are gradually replacing the traditional interviews, but the single-interview format remains a fairly popular choice for UK medical schools.

Traditional interview

In this interview, you are required to answer a set of questions in front of a panel that may consist of a general practitioner (GP) or nurse, a lecturer, an admissions tutor, a junior doctor or a current medical student.

Common traditional interview questions and areas of interest can include:

Why you want to study Medicine

The panel will evaluate what motivates you to study medicine, and it’s a great opportunity to showcase your values as an aspiring medical professional. Make sure to answer concisely and clearly, avoiding clichés.

The area of medicine you’re interested in

There’s a wide range of possible areas a medicine graduate can move into, so don’t worry if you are not certain which area you want to specialize in. It helps to have an idea of what you wish to pursue, so you can speak confidently with knowledge and interest in these areas.

Medical industry news and current events

Medical knowledge and practices evolve over time, so ensure you are fully up to date on the latest news. Refer to websites and publications like NHS Choices, Guardian Health, BBC Health and Science Daily.to stay up to date with innovations in the medical industry and current events. Staying informed on the latest developments in medicine will allow you to answer the interview questions accurately.

What appeals to you about the course and school

This is an opportunity to show why you’re interested in studying in this particular medical school and your interest in studying the chosen course. Attend open days conducted by your preferred school, and learn about the course and any notable alumni. When answering, talk about your career aspirations and how the learning and outcomes of the course can contribute to your goals.

Your work experience

Most medical schools in the UK require applicants to have work experience. Explain how your work experience shapes your outlook on practising medicine. Use examples to show why you are worthy of a place in their medicine program.

Communication and collaboration

The panel will evaluate your communication and collaboration skills through a series of questions about your past studies or work experience. Use specific examples from your past experiences to show how you have communicated and worked together with your colleagues or project members.

Listen attentively, speak calmly and confidently, and maintain eye contact throughout, as this shows the panel that you’re confident in yourself and your abilities. Additionally, dressing smartly, maintaining positive body language, being polite, and preparing a few relevant questions on the course and the school can help you make a good impression on the interview panel and improve the chances of a positive outcome.

Medicine MMIs

MMIs require applicants to face a series of problem-solving scenarios to display their soft skills.

Here are the key factors you need to know about MMIs:

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The entire process typically lasts less than two hours
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There can be up to ten MMIs, with each assessment lasting around ten minutes
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MMIs examine empathy, problem-solving, moral reasoning, and communication
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MMIs can involve teamwork exercises with fellow applicants
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Your personal statement could be factored into the interview

Need help preparing for your medical school interview? Sign up for our Medicine Service to join an interview practice session and get insights from a doctor on a medical school admissions panel in London. Get in touch with us and prepare for your medical school entry interview with expert support.

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