Medicine Interviews: A Complete Guide

Medicine interviews are a crucial final step in gaining admission to UK medical schools. They allow the university to assess not just your academic ability but also qualities like communication, integrity, empathy, and motivation for medicine.

This guide will help you understand the different types of interviews you might encounter – from the widely used Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs) to traditional panel interviews – and give you advice on how to excel in each format.

We’ll cover what to expect and how to prepare effectively, as well as practical tips on things like what to wear and when medical schools hold their interviews. By the end, you should feel more confident and ready to tackle your medicine interviews head-on.

Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs)

What are MMI interviews?

The Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) is now the most widely used medicine interview format. It involves going through a series of short interview stations, rather than one long interview. Each station is a mini-interview (typically about 5–10 minutes) focused on a specific question or task. You rotate through a circuit of stations, with a new interviewer at each one.

Before each station begins, you usually get a prompt or scenario and a minute or two to think. Once you enter, you respond to the question or perform the given task. MMIs are fast-paced and cover a variety of scenarios, which makes the experience very different from a traditional panel interview.

How do MMI interviews work?

In an MMI, each station is designed to assess a different skill or quality. You will start at one station, read a brief scenario or question, then enter and respond to the interviewer or perform the task.

When time is up (you’ll hear a bell or buzzer), you move to the next station and repeat the process with a new topic and new interviewer. This continues until you’ve completed all the stations in the circuit.

Each station is independent – the interviewer at the next station doesn’t know how you did in the previous one, so you get a clean slate each time.

How long are MMI interviews?

It depends on the number of stations, but most MMI interviews last roughly 45 minutes to an hour. A typical MMI might have around 6 to 8 stations, each about 5-7 minutes long (plus a brief interval to read a prompt or move between stations).

Some universities use slightly more stations or longer stations, which can make the whole interview closer to 80-90 minutes, while others have fewer stations that wrap up in half an hour.

In general, expect your MMI to take about an hour or less, but always check the guidance from the specific medical school – they usually tell you how many stations and the time per station in advance.

Types of MMI stations

MMI stations can cover a range of scenarios and tasks. Each station is designed to assess a specific attribute or skill relevant to being a medical student. Common station types include:

Role-play scenarios

You interact with an actor in a given situation – for example, breaking bad news to a “patient” or calming an anxious relative. This tests your empathy, communication, and composure.

Ethical dilemmas

You’re presented with a moral or ethical problem in healthcare (e.g. questions about patient confidentiality, organ donation, or resource allocation) and asked what you would do. Interviewers look for your reasoning, awareness of ethical principles, and ability to consider different perspectives on a topic.

Motivation & personal insight

Some stations focus on you – like why you want to study medicine, what you learned from work experience, or discussing a point from your personal statement. These assess your commitment to medicine and your ability to reflect on experiences.

Problem-solving or data interpretation

You might need to interpret medical data (like understanding a graph or an ECG reading) or perform a simple calculation related to health. This examines your analytical skills and how you handle unfamiliar problems.

Communication tasks

For example, explaining a simple medical concept to someone with no medical knowledge, or following instructions to complete a task and then reflecting on it. Clear, effective communication is key for doctors, and these stations evaluate that.

Teamwork or prioritisation

You could be asked how you would prioritise tasks in a scenario (say, multiple patients arriving at A&E) or talk about how you function in a team setting. This helps assess your decision-making, organization, and teamwork understanding.

Not every school will use all these station types for their medicine interview, but most MMIs draw from similar themes. The exact stations vary by university, and they often won’t tell you the stations in advance. The best approach is to prepare broadly: practice responding to scenarios in each of these categories so you’ll be ready for whatever comes up.

Are MMI interviews hard?

It’s natural to feel nervous about MMIs. MMI interviews can be challenging – they are fast-paced and cover a lot of ground in a short time. Moving quickly from one scenario to another can be intense and mentally tiring.

However, one benefit of MMIs is that if one station goes badly, you start fresh at the next station. You won’t ruin your chances with one misstep, which can actually reduce the pressure compared to a single high-stakes interview.

With medicine interview preparation and practice, MMIs become much more manageable. Many students find that once they get into the rhythm of the stations, the experience is less intimidating than they expected.

Interviewers are not trying to trick you; they want to see how you think and respond. So yes, MMIs are hard – but they are fair, and with good preparation you can absolutely succeed in them.

How are MMI interviews scored?

In most MMIs, each station is scored separately by the interviewer or assessor for that station. There will be a set marking scheme for each station’s task. For example, in an ethics station you might be scored on criteria like “recognition of ethical issues” and “communication clarity”, whereas a role-play station might score things like “empathy” and “problem-solving”. At the end of the circuit, the scores from all your stations are added up (or averaged) to produce your total interview score.

This scoring system means every station counts – doing very well in several stations can balance out a weaker station. It also makes the process fairer, since you’re assessed by multiple people on multiple tasks.

The medical school will then rank or filter candidates based on their interview scores (often combined with other factors like UCAT score and GCSE results and A Level or equivalent predictions) to decide who gets offers. You won’t usually be told your exact score, but knowing that each station is judged independently should reassure you that one mistake isn’t the end of the world. Consistency across stations is what will ultimately earn you a high score.

How to prepare for an MMI interview

Preparing for the MMI format of medicine interviews is about getting used to the unique format and variety of stations.

A few tips:

Practice under timed conditions

Do as many mock MMI scenarios as you can. You can use example questions or prompts and give yourself, say, 5 minutes to respond as if you’re in an interview. If possible, have someone else present the scenario and time you. This practice will help you think on your feet and manage your time so you can make your key points before the station ends.

Dukes Plus’s mock medicine interviews are a great way to practice. You’ll be interviewed by a doctor or medic and receive immediate feedback on your performance.

Study common station themes

Be prepared for common types of stations – ethics, role-plays, personal motivation, teamwork, data interpretation, and so on. Review basic knowledge (like NHS facts and ethical principles) and have a framework in mind for approaching each type.

For example, for an ethical question, you might remember to discuss the pros, cons, and principles involved. You don’t need scripts for answers (those can sound unnatural), but having a logical approach in mind is very useful.

Hone your communication skills

MMIs often assess how you communicate in various scenarios. Practice speaking clearly and calmly even when you’re under pressure. Work on maintaining good body language – like eye contact, a friendly tone, and appropriate facial expressions – especially for stations with actors or personal questions.

You might practice by doing a role-play scenario with a friend and asking for feedback on how you come across. The more comfortable you get with communicating, the more confident you’ll feel going into each station.

How to do well in MMI interviews

Stay calm and positive

Treat each station as a fresh start. If one station didn’t go well, leave it behind and focus on the next. Keep a positive attitude throughout. Also, listen carefully to each question or scenario prompt – if you don’t understand something, it’s perfectly fine to ask for clarification. It’s better to seek a brief explanation than to answer incorrectly due to a misunderstanding.

Think out loud and stay structured

Many MMI stations don’t have one “right” answer; the interviewers are interested in your reasoning. So, explain your thought process step by step. For example, in an ethical scenario, you might outline the dilemma, consider both sides, mention any relevant principles (like patient autonomy or do no harm), and then give your balanced view. By structuring your answer and thinking aloud, you show the assessors how you approach problems logically.

Be empathetic and genuine

Whether you’re interacting with an actor in a role-play or discussing your personal motivations, let your sincerity show. If you’re in a role-play (say, comforting a patient), respond naturally and kindly as you would in real life. If talking about yourself (like why you want to do medicine or what you learned from an experience), don’t just recite rehearsed lines – speak honestly and with reflection. Interviewers appreciate authenticity and compassion.

Mind your body language

Even though each station is short, non-verbal communication matters. Smile and greet the interviewer or actor when you enter. Try to maintain good eye contact and an open posture (avoid defensive or closed-off gestures). Speak clearly, and don’t rush your words. A calm, confident tone leaves a good impression. If you’re nervous (which is normal!), taking a deep breath between stations can help you regain composure.

Work with a tutor

For the highest standard of practice and preparation, consider working with a medicine interview tutor. Dukes Plus is the UK’s leading provider of medicine interview prep and our tutors are trusted by thousands of students and hundreds of top schools.

Medicine Panel Interviews (Traditional Medicine Interviews)

In a panel interview, you’ll face a small group of interviewers at once (often 2 to 4 people). It’s a more traditional medicine interview format: a single, continuous conversation rather than rotating stations.

Panel interviews usually last around 20 to 30 minutes (though it can vary by school). The panel might include medical school tutors, doctors, or other academics who will take turns asking you questions.

The content of a panel interview often overlaps with MMI topics – expect questions about your motivation for medicine, your understanding of the career, ethical scenarios, and discussion of your personal experiences. The difference is that in a panel, interviewers can delve deeper into your answers with follow-up questions. For example, if you start talking about your work experience in a care home, they might ask what you learned from it or how it influenced your desire to become a doctor. If you mention a book or article, they might quiz you on what interested you about it.

Only a minority of UK medical schools now use traditional panel interviews for undergraduate entry. Oxford and Cambridge are well-known examples, where candidates have academic discussions with tutors (typically in December for interviews). A few others like Glasgow also use a panel-style format.

Most universities, however, have shifted to MMIs. Some might use a panel for certain applicants (for instance, international candidates) or employ a hybrid approach. It’s important to check the medicine interview format for each of your choices so you know what to expect.

Tips for panel interviews

Many preparation steps are the same as for MMIs, but additionally:

• Treat it like a conversation – engage with the interviewers. Make eye contact with each person and listen actively to their questions, responding to each member of the panel (not just the one who spoke).
• Be ready to think aloud. If you’re asked a tricky question (say, a challenging ethical scenario or a scientific problem), it’s fine to take a moment and then explain your reasoning step by step. They want to see how you think, not just hear a pre-rehearsed answer.
• If you don’t understand a question, politely ask for clarification. In a longer interview, it’s better to ensure you’re addressing the right point than to go off on the wrong track.
• Stay calm and be yourself. Having several people watching can feel intimidating, but remember that the panel invited you because they’re interested in you. Show your enthusiasm for medicine and answer honestly. A warm, confident demeanour can leave a strong impression.

Overall, in a panel interview you have a bit more time to develop your answers and build rapport with the medical school interviewers.

Medicine Interview Hot Topics

Medical schools like to see that you’re aware of current issues in healthcare. In a medicine interview, you might be asked about news stories or challenges facing the NHS to gauge your knowledge of and interest in the field. You can’t predict exactly which topic will come up, but you can prepare for broad themes.

Here are some medicine interview hot topics that frequently arise:

NHS pressures (staffing and funding)

Be aware of the challenges the NHS is facing. This includes staff shortages and strikes (for example, recent junior doctors’ strikes over pay and working conditions) and financial pressures leading to longer waiting times for patients. You should understand why these issues are happening and the impact they have on patient care.

Medical ethics dilemmas

Classic examples are debates on assisted dying, abortion, or how to allocate limited resources (like organ transplants or ICU beds). You should be able to discuss these sensitively, considering arguments on each side.

The key is to show you understand ethical principles and can reason through a difficult decision. You might also mention any recent changes or discussions (for instance, the shift to an opt-out organ donation system in the UK).

Public health challenges

Topics like the obesity epidemic, mental health provision, or the aftermath of COVID-19 often come up. Know some basic facts (e.g. rising obesity rates or increased demand for mental health services) and what the NHS or government is doing about them. If asked, try to discuss causes and solutions. For example, for obesity you could mention measures like sugar taxes or healthy eating campaigns. Show that you care about these issues and understand why they matter.

Medical innovations

You might be asked about new developments like AI in healthcare, advances in genetic medicine, or improved treatments. You don’t need technical detail, but be ready to give a thoughtful opinion – for instance, AI can help doctors diagnose diseases faster and manage data, but it also raises questions about privacy and the importance of human judgement. Demonstrating an interest in the future of medicine can impress interviewers.

Keep up with health news so you’re aware of these kinds of issues. If asked about a current topic, remember to discuss it thoughtfully and from multiple angles, showing you understand its importance.

What to Wear to a Medicine Interview

First impressions count, and part of that is your attire. Dressing appropriately for your medicine interview shows professionalism and respect. The general rule is to dress in the same way as you would to an important job interview or a formal school event.

Here are some guidelines on what to wear to a medicine interview (and what to avoid):

Do:

• Wear smart or smart-casual clothing. For most candidates this means smart trousers and a shirt or a blazer with a smart shirt and trousers or skirt. A dress with a blazer can also work.
• Make sure your clothes are clean, well-fitted, and ironed. You should feel comfortable and confident in your outfit. (If you’re not used to formal clothes, do a practice run wearing them to be sure.) Choose smart, closed-toe shoes that are polished and comfortable enough to walk in. They don’t have to be high heels or very expensive – just clean, professional-looking footwear.
• Pay attention to grooming. Have neat hair (tie it back if it’s long, or ensure it’s presentable). If you have facial hair, trim it neatly. Keep any makeup subtle and professional. Go easy on jewellery – a simple watch or small earrings are fine, but avoid anything flashy or distracting.

Don’t:

• Don’t wear very casual clothes like jeans, t-shirts, hoodies, or trainers. This can come across as too informal.
• Avoid overly flashy or trendy outfits. This isn’t the time for bold fashion statements – you want the focus to be on what you’re saying. So, no ultra-bright colours, loud patterns, or big logos/slogans.
• Don’t wear anything that makes you uncomfortable or that you’ll have to keep adjusting. For example, if a shirt is too tight at the neck or shoes are painfully small, it will distract you.

The goal is to appear professional and approachable. Medical schools aren’t grading your fashion sense, but dressing appropriately shows you understand the professionalism expected in a clinical environment.

If your interview is online, you should still dress as if it were in person – it helps put you in the right mindset and shows respect. In short, dress smart, look neat, and be comfortable enough to focus on showcasing your best self.

How to Prepare for a Medicine Interview

Here are key steps to help you get ready for your medicine interview.

1. Know the interview format: Check which format each of your chosen medical schools uses (MMI, panel, or a mix). That way you can tailor your practice for each interview.
2. Review your personal statement: Be prepared to discuss anything you wrote. Interviewers will often pick points from your personal statement – work experience, books you mentioned, hobbies – and ask you to elaborate. Make sure you can talk about what you learned from each experience and how it reinforced your desire to study medicine.
3. Build your knowledge: Brush up on common topics. Revise basic medical ethics principles (like the four pillars) and stay updated on NHS current events and hot topics. You don’t need to memorise textbooks, but you should be comfortable talking about key issues and concepts.
4. Practice answering questions aloud: Don’t just plan answers in your head – practice speaking them. Work on common questions (e.g. “Why medicine?”, “Why our medical school?”, “Tell me about what you learned from your work experience”).

Focus on answering in a structured way (for instance, using the STAR method for situational questions) and speaking clearly. If possible, have someone listen to your answers and give feedback.

5. Do mock interviews: Simulate the real thing. Try a practice panel interview with a teacher or mentor, or set up a mini MMI with friends using example scenarios and timing each station.

For the highest standard of medicine interview preparation, consider professional help. Dukes Plus offers one-to-one mock interviews with experienced doctors and medics. Getting feedback from our experienced tutors can quickly highlight areas to improve.

6. Be ready and stay calm: Once you have an interview date, plan the practical details. For an in-person interview, sort out your travel plans (aim to arrive early). For an online interview, test your internet, camera and microphone in advance. Prepare your outfit the day before.

On the day, try to stay calm and focused – do whatever helps you relax, whether it’s deep breathing or listening to music beforehand. Remember that nerves are normal, but good preparation will give you confidence.

When will medical schools start interviewing?

Medical school interviews in the UK usually take place during the winter months following your application. Here’s a general timeline:

Invitation timing

After the October UCAS deadline, universities begin sending out interview invitations. Some schools start as early as November, while others may not send invites until December or early January. Don’t worry if you don’t hear anything immediately – the timing varies by university.

Interview dates

Many interviews occur in December, January, and February. Oxford and Cambridge hold their medicine interviews in early/mid-December. The majority of other medical schools schedule interviews from January through February (with a few in December or extending into March). By the end of March, most interviews are completed.

In summary, you can expect interview invites to start in the weeks after your application is submitted, and most interviews will happen in the December–February window (with some outliers). Be patient and use the waiting time to continue preparing – that way, whenever your interview comes around, you’ll be ready to do your best.

How Dukes Plus Can Help

Dukes Plus is the UK’s most popular provider of medicine interview preparation. We’re trusted by 82% of the UK’s top independent schools and by thousands of students every year.

Here’s how we can help:

Online medicine interview course – self-paced, e-learning course with hours of learning

Medicine interview tutoring – 1-1 preparation with our trained tutors and doctors

Medicine Mock Interviews – practice interviews with experienced doctors and medics, including instant feedback

Medical school interview course – full-day courses in locations throughout the UK or in our virtual classroom