5 Common MMI Station Types

The Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) has become the most common interview method for medical schools worldwide, integrating timed independent assessments in a circuit format with a composite overall score.

Multiple Mini Interview (MMI)

Medical school Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) tracks typically involve 10 different stations, each with 1 interviewer, plus 1 rest station. A question or scenario will be posted on or beside the door of each room and you will have 2 minutes to read it and formulate your answer. Then, a bell/whistle will sound and you will have 6-8 minutes (depending on the school) to do the station. When time is up, another bell will ring, marking the beginning of the 2-minute prep for the next station.

MMIs have evolved to include different station types. While these types may differ by school, here are 5 common ones:

Personal Station

As expected, all MMI tracks will likely have a station enquiring about you and your fit with the profession. Expect to be asked “Why do you want to be a doctor?” and be ready to explain a genuine answer. Even if the questions are variations on this theme, you will be prepared to describe your motivation to pursue this career and what personal attributes will benefit you in the doctor role. Personal stations are great opportunities to briefly incorporate relevant past experiences.

Photo Station

Here you will be asked to view and discuss a photo. The photo may be medically related, perhaps of a patient in hospital, or it may be abstract and unrelated to medicine. Your task is to describe what is happening in the photo. Let your observation skills shine and, if there are people in the photo, explain how they might be feeling.

Video Station

Some schools have video stations, where you will watch a short film during the 2-minute “reading” period and then summarize and discuss what it was about. Like the photo station, it may be medically-related or not.

Actor Station

These stations differ in that you will be interacting with a professional actor while an evaluator silently observes. You often are given brief instructions on the door regarding the task you will be doing or the discussion you will be having with the actor. Actors may be difficult; this is by design. The key is to remain calm and professional in your communication.

Career Station

Career stations will ask you to ponder trends in the medical profession or ethical scenarios you may encounter as a doctor. You should read about and consider professional responsibilities in medicine, current changes in the workforce, challenges doctors face, and how our healthcare system works.

The best way to prepare for anything the MMI may throw at you is to practice with people who have been through the real MMI. Our team of medical consultants have all passed the MMI and many have been interviewers. See how they can help you here.

The Medapps Guarantee

We are so confident that we can meaningfully impact your application and interview that we fully stand behind our coaching services.

MedApplications

MedApplications provides expertise and consulting services to those currently in or seeking to join the medical field. We are the leading provider of medical school admissions preparation in North America for high school and university applicants. Our experts help guide you through application, interview, CASPer®, and residency matching process.

Connect on LinkedIn

About MedApplications

Since 2008, we’ve blazed a trail in successful admissions, ranking as North America’s leading provider of medical school application preparation and coaching. With a 92% Admission Success Rate, our Medical Coaches will help you succeed in getting into your dream medical school of your choiceLearn more about MedApplications here.

Get Coached with MedApps

With countless applicants vying for limited spots, standing out is crucial. This 60-minute one-on-one virtual session is designed to give you targeted, strategic guidance based on your unique profile and goals. Get help in any of these areas:
  • Comprehensive Application Review
  • Face-to-Face Expert Consultation
  • Personalized Admissions Roadmap
  • Application and Career Guidance

Related Articles

Medical school admissions are highly competitive, and the Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) has become a standard method for assessing candidates…
The Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) is a pivotal component of the medical school admissions process. Unlike traditional interviews, the MMI…
Discover essential strategies and insider tips for successfully applying to the Toronto Metropolitan University School of Medicine. Learn how to…

Why take
the risk?

Book Now & Prep for your MedSchool Application today.

Thank you

Thank you for your inquiry with MedApplications. We are currently reviewing your submission and we will be in touch.

For immediate assistance: [email protected]

UBC MMI Writing Station

Thank you

Thank you for booking a single coaching session with MedApps. We are currently reviewing your submission and one of our medical advisors will be in touch.

For immediate assistance: [email protected]

Thank you for your submission

Book your consultation now and get connected with one of our physicians. 

For immediate assistance or help: [email protected]