Interview preparation guide
Choosing between hybrid interview options: residency interview preparation guide
AAMC defines a hybrid interview as one where the applicant chooses in-person or virtual. Prepare a decision method based on your constraints instead of assuming either choice is better.
How to prepare
- 1
Confirm what the offer means
Read the invitation. AAMC says hybrid gives applicants a choice of in-person or virtual. The NRMP Code of Conduct for Applicants says programs are encouraged to minimize bias by interviewing in-person or virtually, but not both, so a program offering a choice is a format question to confirm. Ask the program contact what options are available for your invitation and whether either affects scheduling.
- 2
List practical constraints
Compare travel cost and time, access to a private space, reliable technology, schedule conflicts and your need to see the program environment. AAMC says in-person interviews often occur on a site visit day. Do not infer a hidden preference from a program's format unless it states one.
- 3
Prepare for the format you choose
For virtual, test technology and environment. For in-person, plan route and arrival. AAMC says professionalism applies in either format.
A practical exercise
Option: [in-person/virtual]. Reasons: [..]. Costs: [..]. Risks: [..]. Preparation: [..]. Question for program contact: [..].
This is an editorial exercise to adapt to your own interview, not a script or a program requirement.
What the source guidance supports
AAMC defines hybrid interviews as applicant choice; the NRMP applicant code says programs are encouraged programs to use one mode to minimize bias.
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 one option is a hidden requirement.
- Choosing without checking costs.
- Ignoring preparation for the chosen format.
Check your preparation
- Did I read the actual wording?
- Are costs and risks listed?
- Do I know the preparation steps?
Questions for your practice review
- Does either format affect scheduling?
- Who confirms format questions?
- What is the plan if travel changes?
Common questions
Is hybrid always available?
No. AAMC says programs differ in how they conduct interviews. Check your invitation.
Should I choose in-person?
This guide cannot say. Compare your constraints and ask the program if you need clarification.
Related guides
Sources
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.