20 Questions

Good Questions to Ask Med School Interviewers

Strategic questions to ask medical school interviewers, demonstrating your serious interest, understanding of medicine, and thoughtful approach to your medical education and career.

1

What makes your medical school's curriculum unique, and how does it prepare students for modern medical practice?

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Why this works

Shows you've researched the school and helps you understand their educational approach and innovation in medical training.

2

How does the school support students' well-being and mental health during the rigorous medical training?

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Why this works

Demonstrates awareness of the challenges of medical school and shows you value holistic support for student welfare.

3

What opportunities exist for early clinical exposure and hands-on patient care experiences?

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Why this works

Reveals when and how you'll gain practical experience, showing your eagerness to apply knowledge in real clinical settings.

4

How does the school approach diversity, equity, and inclusion in medical education and patient care?

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Why this works

Shows awareness of health disparities and commitment to serving diverse populations equitably.

5

What research opportunities are available for medical students, and how are they supported?

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Why this works

Demonstrates interest in academic medicine and understanding that research strengthens medical practice.

6

What is the match rate and residency placement record for recent graduates?

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Why this works

Reveals the school's success in helping students achieve their career goals and secure competitive residencies.

7

How does the school integrate technology and innovation into medical education?

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Why this works

Shows interest in modern medical practice and how the school prepares students for evolving healthcare technology.

8

What opportunities exist for community engagement and service learning?

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Why this works

Demonstrates commitment to serving communities and understanding medicine's social responsibility.

9

How does the school support students interested in primary care, underserved populations, or global health?

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Why this works

Shows specific career interests and whether the school aligns with your professional goals and values.

10

What is the teaching philosophy, and how much contact will students have with faculty?

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Why this works

Reveals the learning environment and mentorship opportunities available from experienced physicians and educators.

11

How does the school prepare students for the clinical challenges and ethical dilemmas in medicine?

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Why this works

Shows awareness of medicine's complex ethical landscape and interest in developing professional decision-making skills.

12

What opportunities exist for interdisciplinary learning and collaboration with other health professions?

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Why this works

Demonstrates understanding of healthcare's team-based nature and interest in interprofessional education.

13

How does the school support students who discover they want to pursue a different specialty than initially planned?

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Why this works

Shows maturity in recognizing that interests may evolve and values flexibility in medical training.

14

What makes students choose your school, and what do they value most about their experience?

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Why this works

Provides insider perspective on the school's strengths and culture from those who know it best.

15

How does the school address the business and healthcare policy aspects of medicine?

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Why this works

Shows awareness that physicians must understand healthcare systems and policy beyond clinical care.

16

What opportunities exist for leadership development and professional growth?

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Why this works

Demonstrates ambition and interest in developing skills beyond clinical medicine.

17

How does the school prepare students for the changing landscape of healthcare delivery?

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Why this works

Shows forward-thinking about medicine's future and adaptability to evolving healthcare models.

18

What role do alumni play in supporting current students and recent graduates?

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Why this works

Reveals the strength of the alumni network and ongoing support available beyond graduation.

19

What qualities or experiences distinguish successful students at your school?

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Why this works

Helps you understand what the school values and assess your fit with their culture and expectations.

20

What questions should I be asking that I haven't thought of yet?

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Why this works

Shows humility and openness to guidance, potentially revealing important considerations you've missed.

Best Practices for Med School Interview Conversations

Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.

Best Practices

Research Thoroughly

Study the school's mission, curriculum, and recent developments before the interview to ask informed, specific questions.

Be Genuine

Ask questions you genuinely care about rather than trying to impress. Authenticity stands out in interviews.

Listen Actively

Pay attention to answers and ask thoughtful follow-up questions that demonstrate engagement and critical thinking.

Question Sequences

The Program Assessment

1
What makes your curriculum unique?
2
What opportunities exist for early clinical exposure?
3
What is the teaching philosophy?
4
What is the match rate for recent graduates?

The Student Experience

1
How does the school support student well-being?
2
What opportunities exist for research?
3
What opportunities exist for community engagement?
4
What makes students choose your school?

Common Pitfalls

Don't Ask Questions Answered on the Website

Avoid basic questions that show you haven't done your research. Ask deeper questions that go beyond readily available information.

Don't Focus Only on Prestige

While reputation matters, focus on fit, culture, and how the school will help you become the physician you want to be.

Don't Be Afraid to Ask Tough Questions

Medical school is a significant investment. Ask about match rates, student support, and anything else important to your decision.

Conversation Templates

The School Exploration

1
Step 1: Start with: "I'm impressed by your school's approach to [specific program element]. What makes your curriculum unique?"
2
Step 2: Follow with: "How does the school prepare students for the clinical challenges of modern medicine?"
3
Step 3: Deepen with: "What do current students value most about their experience here?"

Further Reading

"Getting Into Medical School" by Sandeep Jauhar
"The Medical School Interview" by Jessica Freedman
"How to Get Into Medical School" by Kaplan Test Prep

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