Applicant guidance – Online Interviews
Congratulations! You’ve got an interview for an undergraduate programme in Dentistry or Dental Hygiene and Therapy. Make sure you check if the interview is online or in person. The online format is increasingly common and requires some different considerations. Read on for practical preparation tips on online interviews that are endorsed by admissions leads from UK and Irish dental schools.
What format will my online interview take?
Interviews are typically either a panel or multiple mini interviews. Dental schools will inform you in advance which format they use.
- Panel Interviews
Typically involve a single session with two or more interviewers, often including faculty, clinicians, or senior students. They will ask questions to find out your motivation to apply, your understanding of dentistry, and your personality and values. Interviews typically last around 20–30 minutes. Some panels follow a structured script of set questions, while others are semi-structured and may ask follow up questions.
- Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs)
A short interview stations rather than one long interview. Applicants rotate through several stations, each lasting only a few minutes. Each station has a scenario, prompt, or question. Each “mini-interview” is scored independently.
The content and standards of online person are the same as in-person interviews, so approach an online interview with equal preparation.
Preparation
Careful preparation will set you up well for your dental school interview.
1. Your knowledge, skills and experience
Consider how your experience, beliefs and strengths fit with the requirements of a dental student and a dental career. You will find the DSC values and attributes document helpful to consider this.
2. Your set up
Test your equipment and internet connection in advance. Test your webcam, microphone, and speakers or headphones to confirm they are ready. Install and try out the video conferencing software specified by the university (e.g. Zoom, Teams). If possible, have a backup plan such as a mobile hotspot ready in case. Charge your device fully and have your charger ready. If you do not have the necessary space and equipment at home, talk to your school tutor to see if school can help.
3. Environment
Find a quiet and calm space for the interview. Put a sign on the door and tell your household not to disturb you during the scheduled time. Ensure your background is neutral and tidy. A lamp in front of you, if required, will help the interviewers to see you clearly. Switch your phone off or on silent and disable or mute notifications on your computer. Make sure any virtual background or blur is professional.
4. Clothes
Dress as you would for an in-person interview, smart/casual. Avoid overly casual clothes.
5. Punctuality
Check your interview invitation for any login instructions. The online interview is a formal appointment and being on time is important. Join the call early, ideally 10 minutes before the start, in case of technical difficulties. Ensure your screen name or login ID is appropriate (ideally your real name). Some dental schools will ask you to show a photo ID at the start of the interview for verification, so have this to hand.
6. Check emails
Some interviews may involve practical tasks that you are given time to prepare for, so please check your emails leading up to the interview for instructions. Occasionally, there may be last minute changes, so make sure you are prepared by reading the information sent to you.
During the Interview
- Maintain the same level of focus as you would face-to-face. Look at the camera when speaking to simulate eye contact with the interviewers. Listen actively to questions, and speak clearly and at a measured pace. If you do not hear or understand a question, politely ask for clarification.
- The panel will expect natural, unrehearsed answers. Do not read from a script or notes on your screen. It is acceptable to have a short list of key points off-camera for your own reference, but try to rely on your preparation and speak naturally.
- Use polite language. Avoid slang and overly casual phrasing. Address the interviewers as Doctor/Professor [Surname] if introduced with titles.
- Do not chew gum during the interview. Have water on hand in a glass or bottle if needed.
- You are expected to be alone, as your interview must genuinely reflect your personality, understanding and skills, without influence. Looking to others for advice or support during the interview may reflect unfavourably on your interview score. The interview is intended to be private and confidential.
Professionalism
- Dental schools seek students who will one day become trustworthy clinicians and vetting for this begins at the interview stage.
- Follow all rules given in the interview instructions.
- As a prospective dental student you are expected to uphold professional conduct during your interview.
- Under no circumstances is it allowed to use AI tools, chatbots, or external help (including asking a person to help) during your interview. Any form of help during your interview, digital or human, is strictly prohibited by all dental schools.If an online interviewer suspects you are using external help, you may be asked to clarify. Applicants proven to be using external help will be disqualified from the admissions process.
- Many of the competencies sought in a dental trainee, such as the ability to communicate effectively, ethical judgment, and professionalism under pressure, cannot be imitated by external help.
- Do not share the interview tasks or interview questions with other applicants as this inhibits a level playing field.
Good luck with your interview, and remember preparation is the key to success!