In many ways, interviewing for medical school is similar to interviewing for a job. In general, the interviewer will inquire about an applicant’s personal characteristics, reasons for choosing a particular institution, educational background, and career objectives. The most common med school interview questions are intended to provide an accurate picture of each applicant’s personality and qualifications.
A line of med school interview questions is likely to begin by probing into an applicant’s personality, similar to a job interview. An interviewer will most likely inquire as to why the applicant wishes to attend medical school and begin a career as a medical professional. The applicant may also be asked to describe the qualities he or she believes a good doctor should possess, as well as how he or she exemplifies these qualities both personally and professionally.
Another common theme in medical school interview questions is for applicants to describe situations in which they demonstrated problem-solving abilities, professional expertise, or leadership qualities. Interviewees should be able to provide examples of their ability to succeed in difficult situations from previous jobs, education, or general life experiences. An interviewer for a medical school must be convinced that an applicant has the intelligence and personal fortitude to deal with the many challenges that will be faced during his or her medical education and career.
Interview questions for medical school will almost certainly focus on the applicant’s interest in specific institutions. Most applicants who make it to the interview stage have some knowledge of the school they’re applying to, but everyone should be prepared to answer questions like “Why are you interested in this school?” “What qualities of this school do you think will help you the most in your career?” and “Why do you think this school will be a good fit for you?” Medical schools want to know that their applicants are committed to attending a specific institution and, more importantly, to completing their education and starting a career that will reflect well on the school.
Questions about ethics and morality may also come up during med school interviews. Doctors’ actions are governed by strict legal and ethical guidelines, and medical school interviewers must be confident that accepted students will adhere to these guidelines. Applicants may be asked for their thoughts on a contentious medical issue, as well as how their views might influence the decisions they make as doctors. Interviewers may also present a hypothetical scenario that puts a doctor’s ethics to the test and ask the applicant to explain how he or she would handle the situation.