How to Succeed in Multiple Mini Interviews

by Ellie Williams
You may work with another applicant on answers addressing teamwork.

You may work with another applicant on answers addressing teamwork.

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The multiple mini interview, or MMI, is a process used by medical schools to evaluate prospective students. This method, which originated in Canada, uses role playing and scenarios to assess personal qualities such as empathy, teamwork and ethics. To pass this final interviewing stage, you’ll need strong interpersonal skills and the ability to think on your feet.


During an MMI, applicants visit six to 10 interviewing stations. At each station they must accomplish a task or solve a problem in a specified amount of time, typically six to eight minutes. For example, at one station they may simulate delivering a grave diagnosis, with an actor playing the role of the patient. At the next station they may work with another candidate on a task requiring teamwork. They usually have two to three minutes to prepare their answer. A different interviewer oversees each station and evaluates all candidates, ensuring that each applicant is evaluated using the same criteria and judgment.


As with a traditional interview, you can research the types of questions commonly asked during an MMI. Because many of the interviewing stations require role-playing, problem-solving and critical thinking, however, you need to do more than just prepare and rehearse a succinct and well-thought-out reply. You should hone your ability to formulate logical responses with little time to prepare. Before the interview, recruit a friend, family member or classmate to help you practice. Run through several timed scenarios, approaching each from multiple perspectives. In addition, some universities offer preparatory workshops where you can participate in a simulated MMI and receive written and verbal feedback.

Assessing the Question

Read or listen to the instructions carefully, watching for clues to help you focus your answer. The questions often mention specific issues or skills the school wants you to demonstrate as part of your reply. For example, one answer may evaluate your ethics by asking what you would do if your boss hired someone you know has a history of drug abuse because you treated him at a volunteer clinic. In this case, you need to frame your reply to address doctor-patient confidentiality. Always look at the big picture and consider your goal when evaluating the question. Do you want to emphasize your communication skills, for example, or showcase your knowledge of medical law?

Formulating Your Response

Though you only have a few minutes to prepare your reply, it’s crucial that you take time with your answer instead of rattling off the first thing that pops into your head. If you practiced, you should have a good idea of how much material you can cover in the allotted time. Before you answer, consider how much time you have and try to pace your answer. Don’t rush your answer to ensure you have time for everything you want to say. Instead, start by addressing the most basic part of the question and gradually elaborate on the issues or skills you want to emphasize. The interviewer will see you as someone who’s poised and logical and who thinks carefully before speaking or taking action.

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