Interview preparation guide
Preparing for common interview question categories: residency interview preparation guide
AAMC groups residency interview questions into seven categories, from questions about you to hypothetical situations. Preparing by category covers more ground than memorising individual questions.
How to prepare
- 1
Learn the seven categories
AAMC lists questions about you, your future career goals, your interest in the specialty, your interest in their specific program, your application or record, your past experiences and hypothetical situations.
- 2
Prepare one example per category
Choose one honest example or point for each category. AAMC says specific questions will vary among programs, so a prepared point for each category is more flexible than a script.
- 3
Practise with the AAMC list
AAMC's list of frequently asked questions includes "Tell me about yourself", "Why are you interested in our program?" and "What questions do you have for me?" Practise aloud and check that your answers are accurate and consistent.
A practical exercise
About me: [..]. Career goals: [..]. The specialty: [..]. This program: [..]. My record: [..]. Past experience: [..]. Hypothetical: [..].
This is an editorial exercise to adapt to your own interview, not a script or a program requirement.
What the source guidance supports
AAMC groups common interview questions into seven categories and lists frequently asked questions for practice.
The exercises and checklists are editorial applications of the cited guidance, not required program procedures or predictions of interview outcomes. Costs and formats vary by program, so follow your actual invitation and school guidance.
Mistakes to avoid
- Memorising answers word for word.
- Skipping the questions about your record.
- Not preparing your own questions for the end.
Check your preparation
- Do I have a point for each category?
- Did I practise aloud?
- Do I have questions for them?
Questions for your practice review
- How would you describe yourself?
- Why this program?
- What would you do in this situation?
Common questions
Are these the questions I will be asked?
No. AAMC says specific questions vary among programs.
Should I prepare for questions about my record?
AAMC lists them as a category. Prepare an honest, brief explanation if something on your record needs one.
How many questions should I practise?
This guide cannot give a number. Cover each category at least once.
Related guides
Sources
- AAMC: common residency interview topics
- AAMC: questions frequently asked of applicants during interviews
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.