MasterPanel Interviews
Excel in traditional medical school panel interviews with in-depth preparation for conversational, rapport-building interview formats.
What are Panel Interviews?
Understanding the traditional interview format still used by prestigious medical schools.
Some medical schools still use panel interviews rather than MMIs. These are longer, more conversational interviews with a small group of interviewers — typically 2 to 4 — such as doctors, academics, admissions staff, and sometimes students.
Candidates are assessed on their motivation for medicine, ethical reasoning, work experience reflections, and understanding of the healthcare profession. Unlike MMIs, panel interviews allow for follow-up questions and deeper exploration of the applicant's ideas and reasoning.
Conversational Format
Build rapport with interviewers through in-depth discussions that explore your motivations and understanding.
How Panel Interviews Differ
Panel interviews focus on depth rather than breadth, requiring different preparation strategies.
Depth Over Breadth
Fewer questions with more discussion, critical thinking, and self-reflection
Follow-up Questions
Interviewers can probe further and ask for justification of your answers
Rapport Building
Opportunity to build relationships and demonstrate personality over time
Which Medical Schools Use Panel Interviews?
While formats can change year to year, these universities are known to use panel interviews either fully or partially:
Oxford
Cambridge
Glasgow
Barts
Swansea
Southampton
Note: Interview formats can change. Always check directly with your target universities for the most current information.
Panel Interviews vs MMIs
Understanding the key differences between interview formats
| Aspect | Panel Interviews | MMIs |
|---|---|---|
| Format | 1 long interview (20–40 mins) | Series of short stations (5–10 mins each) |
| Interviewers | Same interviewers throughout | New interviewer each station |
| Depth | Allows for deeper follow-up | Tests a wide range quickly |
| Style | Conversation-style and rapport building | Task/response focused |
Common Panel Questions
Panel interviews often include traditional questions designed to explore values, ethics, motivation, and communication
Why do you want to study medicine?
What did you learn from your work experience?
Tell us about a time you worked in a team.
What are the current challenges facing the NHS?
How should a doctor respond if a patient refuses treatment?
Should doctors be seen as role models?
💡 Key to Strong Answers:
Demonstrate clarity of thought, personal reflection, and a good understanding of healthcare values. Be prepared for follow-up questions that dig deeper into your responses.
Perfect Your Panel Interview
We offer panel interview mocks with experienced tutors to simulate the real thing.
Each Session Includes:
- ✓A full-length panel-style mock interview tailored to a university of your choice
- ✓Questions generated from our Prometheus system based on your target medical school
- ✓Live verbal feedback and detailed written notes
- ✓Personalised scoring breakdown and improvement plan
Realistic Simulation
Designed to reflect the structure and tone of real panel interviews
This service provides focused, practical preparation tailored specifically to panel interview formats.
Ready to Excel in Panel Interviews?
Build confidence and master the conversational interview format with expert guidance