Medical schools are highly competitive institutions that require aspirants to be adequately prepared for their upcoming interview. Knowing what questions to expect in your medical school interview can be the key to success.

In this article, we will outline the common medical school interview questions 2023, so prospective students can familiarize themselves with the types of questions asked and develop strategies to best answer them.

Questions to prepare:

1. Describe your research experience.

Your research experience may be one of the most important elements of your medical school application, so be prepared to discuss your research in depth. Whether you’ve conducted clinical trials or conducted research in a lab setting, explain what type of research you did, what you learned, and the impact it had on your decision to pursue a career in medicine.

2. How will you contribute to our medical school?

Medical schools are looking for candidates who will add value to their institution. Instead of focusing on your individual passions and dreams, think about how your experience and strengths tie into the programs and community of the school you’re applying to. Be prepared to explain what you can bring to the table and what you hope to gain while at the school.

3. Describe a challenging experience you faced and how you dealt with it.

Interviews are an excellent opportunity for candidates to demonstrate that they are resilient problem-solvers and have the right mindset to face the difficult issues medical professionals encounter in their everyday work. Talk about a challenging experience you faced, explain how you overcame it, and discuss how it’s shaped your life and prepared you for medical school.

4. What are your thoughts on healthcare reform?

Healthcare reform is a hot-button issue in the United States, so be ready to address your stance on changes to the healthcare system and how it will affect physicians and their patients. Share any relevant life experiences you’ve had with healthcare reform, such as how it affects your family or friends.

5. Describe your decision to pursue medicine.

This question gives you the chance to show off your personal narrative and explain why you decided to become a doctor. Dig deep here and don’t be afraid to get a little creative! Share any hardships, inspirations, or life-changing experiences that motivated you to pursue medicine.

6. Explain a time when you demonstrated leadership skills.

Leadership skills are essential in the medical field, so make sure you have at least one example of a time where you took the initiative or played a leadership role. This could be in a project, school activity, or volunteer opportunity.

7. What are your long-term career goals?

Where do you hope to be in five or ten years? Talk about your near and far-term plans, like completing your undergraduate degree, entering residency, or joining a research team. What type of physician do you hope to be and why?

8. What types of clinical skills have you developed?

Discuss your clinical skills and any internships, patient interactions, or volunteer work you have undertaken. Have you shadowed a physician? Worked in outpatient or inpatient settings? Explain any technical skills or knowledge of medical procedures and terminologies you have.

9. What questions do you have for us?

Remember to come to the interview prepared with a few questions of your own. Questions about the teaching staff and student life can provide the admissions team with insights into why the school is the right fit for you. 

10. What made you stand out in your little league soccer team?

This question may sound trivial, but it gives admissions team insight into how you work with others and how you may contribute to the medical school community. Explain what unique qualities you brought to the team and how you demonstrated leadership and teamwork.

11. Describe a memorable patient encounter.

Each medical school wants to admit students who possess the desired traits to provide compassionate care. Describe a memorable patient interaction you had and explain the lessons you learned. Be sure to emphasize the impact it had on your passion for the medical field.

12. What are your thoughts on the COVID-19 pandemic?

This pandemic has placed an unimaginable strain on healthcare professionals across the world and will continue to shape the way medicine is practiced. Be prepared to explain what you’ve learned from the pandemic and any adjustments you believe need to be made in the healthcare system.

By having a clear understanding of Sample Medical School Interview Questions and preparing a few thoughtful answers ahead of time, you can help ensure success in your upcoming interviews. Good luck!