Interview preparation guide
Recording and notes for a virtual interview: residency interview preparation guide
The NRMP Code of Conduct says neither programs nor applicants should record virtual interviews. Prepare a notes plan and settings check, and follow the program's own instructions.
How to prepare
- 1
Check settings before you join
Turn off personal recording tools and screen capture software you might use for study. The NRMP Code of Conduct for Applicants says neither programs nor applicants should record virtual interviews. The 2027 agreement does not address recording, and it is a separate document. If the invitation says something different, ask the program contact before the day.
- 2
Plan notes without capturing audio
AAMC recommends capturing impressions right after the interview. Prepare a private note template so you can record facts and questions quickly. Avoid writing identifiable stories about residents.
- 3
Practise with consent
For mock interviews, ask peers or advisors whether a practice recording is acceptable and store it privately. AAMC suggests recording yourself to review eye contact and delivery. That is self-practice, not recording an actual program interview.
A practical exercise
After the interview: [facts confirmed], [questions raised], [impressions with examples], [follow-ups]. No audio, screen capture or transcript of the interview.
This is an editorial exercise to adapt to your own interview, not a script or a program requirement.
What the source guidance supports
The NRMP Code of Conduct says neither programs nor applicants should record virtual interviews; AAMC separately recommends self-recording for practice only.
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
- Recording because it feels convenient.
- Forgetting an automatic cloud recording setting.
- Saving private comments about identifiable people.
Check your preparation
- Is recording disabled?
- Do I have a private note template?
- Did I ask before practising with another person?
Questions for your practice review
- Is recording discussed in the invitation?
- Who can I ask?
- What notes should I make?
Common questions
Can I record a practice interview?
AAMC suggests recording yourself in practice to review delivery. Get consent from anyone else and keep it separate from an actual program interview.
What does NRMP say about recording?
The Code of Conduct for Applicants says neither programs nor applicants should record virtual interviews. Check the program's instructions as well.
Related guides
Sources
- NRMP: Match Code of Conduct for Applicants
- NRMP: 2027 Match Participation Agreement for applicants
- AAMC: virtual interview preparation
- AAMC: preparing for 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.