Waiting for medical school interview invites can be nerve-wracking. After hitting the submit button on your applications, you suddenly have all this free time. As the weeks and months pass, especially if you hear of friends and colleagues getting invites, it’s easy to start worrying.

As someone who has survived the ups and downs of the medical school application process, I understand the stress and uncertainty that comes with waiting to hear back from medical schools. It can feel never-ending.

Each medical school has its schedule for interviews and speaking from experience, you may get an interview and acceptance way later than you ever imagined, so stay diligent. To help you be prepared, I’ll walk you through a timeline and share what to do before, during, and after the interview period.

When Do Medical Schools Invite Students for Interviews?

The timing for medical school interview invites varies. I’ve heard that it is rare to receive an interview invite after Christmas, but the timing is varied and generally runs from July through March. Some schools begin sending out invites closer to when they receive secondary applications returned, while other schools might be inviting students up until June. The norm is somewhere between these extremes.

Interview Timeline

Most medical schools loosely adhere to this timeline:

  • July/August: early!
  • September – January: most common time (but don’t freak out if you’ve heard nothing!)
  • Mid-December to early January: The invites die down
  • February-June: The end of the period and time to think about reapplying the next year if no invites

While You Wait

While it’s tempting to relax after submitting your application, the process isn’t over and you can begin preparing for your interview invite. This may include mock interviews or YouTube videos (YT really helped me!)

While you are waiting, you can also complete a few more application process tasks:

  • Send schools an update letter if something has changed (and ONLY if something has changed)
  • Send schools a letter of intent to reaffirm your interest and commitment to that school. This should be thought out and honest and only send a letter of intent if you genuinely intend on attending this school if accepted. The interviewers have to weed through thousands of applications and emails from applicants, don’t be that person that clogs it up for the A and doesn’t attend.
  • Back-up plan? A backup plan should not be a new career path…but a good backup plan might be plans to reapply the next cycle and brainstorm what changes/updates may strengthen your application for next year. (i.e. address areas that need improvement, such as gaining more clinical or shadowing experience, retaking the MCAT if necessary, or seeking stronger letters of recommendation). Bigger backup plans might be to explore post-bac programs or consider a gap year – but don’t jump into that without thoroughly examining your application and determining if this is necessary.
  • Remain committed to your goals!

A Few Tips For After Interview Invites Roll In:

During the Interview Period

Once you receive an interview invite, it’s time to shift gears and prepare intensively. Here are some key steps to ensure you make the best impression:

  1. Research the School: Know the school’s mission, values, and unique programs. Tailor your responses to align with what the school is looking for.
  2. Practice Common Questions: While you can’t predict every question, practicing common interview questions can help you formulate your thoughts and reduce anxiety.
  3. Mock Interviews: Consider doing mock interviews with friends, family, or professional services. This will help you get comfortable with the format and receive constructive feedback.
  4. Prepare Your Questions: Interviews are a two-way street. Have a list of thoughtful questions ready to ask your interviewers. This shows your genuine interest in their program.
  5. Dress Appropriately: First impressions matter. Dress professionally and ensure your attire is neat and conservative.
  6. Stay Calm and Confident: Nervousness is natural, but try to stay calm and confident. Take deep breaths, maintain good posture, and remember that the interviewers want to see you succeed.

After the Interview

After your interview, there are a few steps you can take to leave a positive lasting impression:

  1. Send a Thank-You Note: A thank-you note can go a long way. Send a personalized email to each interviewer, expressing gratitude for the opportunity and reiterating your interest in the school.
  2. Reflect on Your Performance: Take some time to reflect on how the interview went. Identify areas where you excelled and areas for improvement. This can help you in future interviews.
  3. Stay in Touch: If you haven’t heard back within the expected time frame, it’s okay to follow up with the admissions office. A polite inquiry about your application status shows your continued interest.
  4. Continue Gaining Experience: While waiting for responses, continue to gain relevant experience. Volunteer, shadow, or work in healthcare settings to strengthen your application further.

The medical school interview process is a critical step in your journey to becoming a physician. While the waiting period can be stressful, staying proactive and prepared can make a significant difference. Remember, each school’s timeline may vary, so don’t lose hope if you haven’t received an invite yet. Keep pushing forward, stay committed to your goals, and make the most of every opportunity that comes your way. Good luck!

Stay diligent, friends.

XO Melmo