Interview preparation guide
Responding to an inappropriate interview question: residency interview preparation guide
AAMC says applicants may decline a question they sense is inappropriate. Decide in advance how you might respond, and separate that from information you may be required to disclose to programs.
How to prepare
- 1
Know what AAMC lists as inappropriate
AAMC gives examples that include questions about race, religion, marital status, plans for children, disabilities, arrests, drug use and age. Read the examples before the season so they are familiar. The list is guidance, and a question you are unsure about can still be handled calmly.
- 2
Choose among the responses AAMC describes
AAMC says you may give a thoughtful answer, respectfully decline, or ask for clarification. Its sample wording asks the interviewer to clarify the question so you can give relevant information. Pick wording that sounds like you, and do not memorize a speech.
- 3
Do not confuse declining with omitting required information
Declining an inappropriate question is not permission to leave out information you are responsible for disclosing. The NRMP 2027 agreement says applicants must give complete, timely and accurate information, including anything bearing on the ability to satisfy program requirements, to start on time, or on licensure or visa status. If you are unsure whether a topic falls into that category, ask your school advisor or the program contact how to handle it through the proper channel before the interview.
A practical exercise
Possible wording: Could you clarify what you would like to understand about my candidacy? I would be glad to discuss [training goal, schedule requirements or experience relevant to the role].
This is an editorial exercise to adapt to your own interview, not a script or a program requirement.
What the source guidance supports
AAMC states that applicants may decline an inappropriate question; the NRMP 2027 agreement separately requires complete, timely and accurate disclosure of pertinent information.
The exercises and checklists are editorial applications of the cited guidance, not legal advice, required program procedures or predictions of interview outcomes. NRMP statements were checked against the 2027 Match Participation Agreement for applicants and the Match Code of Conduct for Applicants, which the NRMP applicant code page (updated November 21, 2024) links as its current document. They are separate documents. Follow your actual invitation, school guidance and the current NRMP documents.
Mistakes to avoid
- Assuming you must answer every question to be polite.
- Arguing with the interviewer.
- Treating a declined question as a reason to withhold information the program must receive through the proper process.
Check your preparation
- Have I read the AAMC examples?
- Do I have one calm clarification phrase?
- Do I know which information I must disclose through the application or program contact?
Questions for your practice review
- Could you clarify what you want to learn?
- Which part is relevant to the role?
- Would you like me to discuss my relevant experience?
Common questions
Can I decline to answer?
AAMC says you have the right not to answer a question you sense is inappropriate and may respectfully decline.
Does declining mean I never have to disclose private information?
No. This guide only covers how to respond to an inappropriate question. The NRMP 2027 agreement still makes you responsible for disclosing information pertinent to a program's decision, such as the ability to satisfy requirements, start-date issues, and licensure or visa status. Ask your advisor how to disclose it through the proper channel.
Related guides
Sources
- AAMC: interview rights and responsibilities
- AAMC: completing interviews
- NRMP: 2027 Match Participation Agreement for applicants
This page is general editorial guidance based on the sources above. It is not a prediction of any program's questions or a statement of its current policies.