Spaces at UK medical schools are limited, and entry is often very competitive. That is why medical schools in the UK will invite applicants for interviews before offering them a place, to better understand the student they taking on. During an interview at a UK medical school, students will be quizzed on:
Your medical school interview can be a daunting prospect, but the SI-UK Medicine Service can fully prepare you for your medical school interview with interview practice from a doctor who sits on the admissions panel of a London medical school.
The traditional medicine interview is gradually being pushed out by MMI interviews, but is still a popular choice when assessing candidates at many medical schools. Common traditional interview questions and areas of interest can include:
- Why do you want to study Medicine? The panel will be looking at what motivates you and this question can speak volumes about you as a person and candidate. Answer concisely and clearly, avoiding clichés.
- Area of medicine you are interested in. There are a huge number of possible areas a medicine graduate can move into, so do not be afraid if you are unsure which exact part you wish to specialise in. It is important however to at least have an idea of what you wish to pursue and talking confidently with knowledge on these areas will help immensely.
- Medical industry news and current events. Medicine is an ever changing field, so ensure you are fully up to date on the latest news. The National Health Service, the publicly funded health service of the UK, is rarely out of the news and useful resources include NHS Choices, Guardian Health, BBC Health and Science Daily.
- What appeals about the course and medical school. Attend any Open Days the medical school/university run, and learn more about the history of the course and any notable alumni. Think about your career goals and how they fit into the medicine programme you wish to study.
- Work experience. For the majority of medical schools, work experience is an absolute must for any aspiring student to have completed. Explain why your work experience was useful and how it shaped your outlook on wanting to work in medicine. Use examples to show why you are worthy of a place on their medicine programme.
- Communication and working with others. Use examples from work experience or prior study practice of how you have communicated clearly and effectively to fellow colleagues or project members. Remember to listen attentively, speak calmly and confidently and maintain eye contact throughout, as these are all are traits of someone who is a good communicator, which is vital in the area of medicine.
- Make an impression. Usual interview etiquette also applies so make your impression with the panel count. Dress smartly, have a positive body language, be polite and prepare a small number of questions at the end, specifically related to the course or university.
Multiple-mini interviews (MMI) are an increasingly common form of interview used at many UK medical schools. Instead of the traditional interview format in front of a panel, students will be required to test their ability through a series of ethical and problem solving scenarios.
MMI facts:
If you need help choosing the right medical school for your future, arrange your free consultation today. The Medicine Service can help prepare you fully ahead of applying to a UK medical school, with intensive interview practice provided.
SI-UK's service is fast, reliable and efficient. Their consultants are specialists, working closely with all UK universities and, through my personal advice and application assistance, I was able to receive offers from my favorite universities.
Sandra Khoo Design at Brunel University London
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