Medical Interview Format

The Multiple-Mini-Interview (MMI) is called that way because it has several short, structured interview stations. Each station focuses on a different scenario or question, allowing medical schools to evaluate various skills and qualities of candidates. This provides a complete overview of a candidate's abilities. 

Typically, there are 5 or more stations, each lasting about 7-9 minutes (usually with 2 minutes for reading and 5-7 minutes to respond). 

During the 2-minute reading time, the interviewer will display a PowerPoint slide with the scenario. After 2 minutes, the slide will be removed, and the interviewer will ask the first question. Usually, a second question follows, so be mindful not to spend too much time on the first one. Some universities may ask a third question if time allows. 

You can request the interviewers to reshare the slide at any point during the session. 

After completing the first scenario, the process repeats for each subsequent scenario until all are finished. 

Depending on the university, some MMIs may be conducted by the same interviewers or by rotating among different ones. 

Students are evaluated based on a set of qualities. All medical schools generally look for traits such as empathy, effective communication, teamwork, and leadership skills. 

Knowing the specific qualities that universities seek can help you anticipate potential questions.

A detailed guide could be purchased from this link.

While every interview preparation site emphasizes 'being yourself,' it’s equally important to be well-prepared. In my sessions, I ensure that my students thoroughly understand the ethical foundations of the medical profession and know how to articulate these principles in an interview. We explore common interview themes and learn how to craft answers that are both concise and comprehensive. Students are encouraged to reflect on their personal experiences and learn how to discuss them effectively, as well as to refine their overall presentation.

These sessions are tailored to the preparedness level of each student and the specific universities they are applying to. My goal is to ensure that students are not only ready to present themselves but to present their best selves during interviews.

We provide medical interview tutoring and if you're interested, please get in touch for a free consultation. You could also join us if you wanted to start your medical interview preparation with us right now. Join here.