Is it worth having mock interviews for medicine and dentistry?

Preparing for the interview can be one of the most nerve-wracking experiences in your journey to becoming a doctor or a dentist. This is your opportunity to impress and secure that offer, and for many students, it could be your only chance. With so much on the line, many students wonder whether investing time and money into mock interviews is truly beneficial. So, whether face-to-face or online, is it worth having mock interviews for medicine or dentistry? The answer is a resounding yes—and here’s why.

The competitive nature of medical and dental school admissions

Medical and dental school admissions are notoriously competitive. In the UK, the number of applicants far outweighs the number of available places. This means that while your UCAT/BMAT score, predicted grades, references, and personal statement might get you in the door, the interview is often the deciding factor that sets you apart from other candidates. Medical and dental school interviews are designed to assess your communication skills, professionalism, ethical judgment, empathy, and ability to think critically under pressure. I have found from years of experience that for many students, this is the most daunting part of the application process.

The benefits of mock interviews

Mock interviews offer a simulated experience of the real thing, allowing you to refine your responses, body language, and overall presentation. Here are some key benefits of mock interviews for medical or dental school:

1. Familiarity with the interview format

Medical and dental school interviews often follow specific formats—whether it's the Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) or traditional panel interviews. Each of these formats requires distinct strategies and preparation. Participating in mock interviews familiarizes you with the style and structure of the interview, allowing you to practice your responses to common questions.

For instance, MMIs are a series of short, scenario-based stations that assess your problem-solving, interpersonal skills, and ethical reasoning. Practicing mock MMIs helps you develop quick, coherent answers and adapt to time pressure. Traditional panel interviews, on the other hand, may involve more in-depth personal and ethical questions. A mock panel interview gives you a chance to practice speaking to a group, making eye contact, and answering questions concisely.

2. Constructive feedback for improvement

One of the biggest advantages of mock interviews is the opportunity to receive feedback from experienced interviewers; their insights can be invaluable. They can pinpoint areas where you may be underperforming, such as failing to explain your reasoning or not providing enough examples in your answers.

For example, you might think you are giving clear responses, but a mock interviewer may point out that you're talking too much or straying off-topic. You might be surprised to learn that your posture or the tone of your voice could also be factors influencing the interviewer's perception of you. Constructive feedback can help you fine-tune your approach and boost your confidence.

3. Building confidence and reducing interview anxiety

Interview anxiety is a common issue for many students, especially those applying to high-pressure programs like medicine. Mock interviews help alleviate this anxiety by allowing you to practice in a low-stakes, controlled environment. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with the format, the questions, and the overall process. It’s also an excellent way to desensitize yourself to the nervousness that can occur when facing a panel of experienced interviewers.

Mock interviews also give you a chance to improve your verbal and non-verbal communication skills. You’ll have the opportunity to work on your tone, pace, and body language, making sure you come across as confident and professional.

4. Mastering the art of reflection

Medical and dental schools often look for candidates who can reflect on their experiences, learn from them, and apply that learning to future situations. Mock interviews allow you to practice reflecting on key moments in your life—whether they’re personal experiences, work, or volunteer activities—and articulating them in a way that demonstrates self-awareness, maturity, and critical thinking.

You’ll also be able to practice answering challenging questions, such as "Why do you want to be a doctor/dentist?" or "What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?" By rehearsing these questions in a mock interview, you can refine your ability to answer them thoughtfully and without hesitation.

5. Simulating high-pressure situations

Medical and dental school interviews often involve a time crunch and the need to think on your feet. Mock interviews simulate this pressure and teach you how to handle unexpected questions, interruptions, or challenging scenarios. With each mock interview, you’ll become more adept at staying calm under pressure and delivering your best performance, even when faced with questions you might not have anticipated.

6. Personalizing your approach

Mock interviews can also help you personalize your approach to medical school interviews. Through mock sessions, you’ll identify which responses feel authentic to you and which ones need further refinement. Being genuine is key in an interview. If you're simply giving rote answers or regurgitating what you think the interviewer wants to hear, it could backfire. Mock interviews help you craft responses that truly reflect your motivations, experiences, and aspirations, allowing you to shine as an individual.

Mock interviews are undeniably a valuable part of preparing for medical school. They offer a unique opportunity to practice in a realistic, low-pressure setting, receive valuable feedback, and hone your skills before the actual interview. By investing time and energy into mock interviews, you’re giving yourself the best possible chance to perform confidently, effectively, and authentically. As the saying goes, "Practice makes perfect," and in the highly competitive world of medical school admissions, mock interviews could be the key to turning your dream of becoming a doctor or a dentist into a reality.

Contact Jude to arrange a face-to-face or online mock interview to help you prepare for that all important day.