Health Pros: The Multiple Mini-Interview (MMI)
The MMI was developed to reduce bias and make the interview process more objective. Candidates rotate through a series of timed stations where they review a question or scenario, formulate their response, and present their response to an evaluator. Each station is designed to evaluate specific competencies and evaluators are trained to rate candidates based on a rubric. Often, evaluators are trained to not give any verbal or non-verbal cues or feedback in order to ensure every candidate has a similar MMI experience. Candidates may be required to sign a nondisclosure statement, agreeing not to reveal the questions and scenarios used.
Scenario – You are presented with a scenario and asked to determine a course of action. There is often no single correct response. Explain your reasoning as you describe your approach to the scenario and look for opportunities to express empathy when applicable.
Ethical Issue: This may be a scenario, role play, or discussion station. Again, there is typically no single correct or best answer. Consider alternate points of view, clarify your own beliefs and values, and express empathy where possible. Be sure to take a position if the prompt for the station directs you to do so.
Behavioral: Similar to traditional interviews with questions like “Describe a time you faced conflict while working on a team.” You can use the STAR Method to formulate responses that incorporate specific examples.
Role Play: You will interact with an actor to complete a task like delivering bad news or confronting someone about a problem. You are not being rated on your acting abilities! Expressing empathy and maintaining professionalism is often key to these stations. Use your prep time to understand your role and the desired outcome in the role play.
Problem-solving: You will be asked to complete a task, like building an object or recreating an image. Your thought process is typically more important than completing the task in the allotted time so be sure to explain your approach and reasoning at each step.
Collaboration: These stations test your communication and problem-solving skills as you complete a task or activity with another individual. If the station requires you to give directions, use descriptive and guiding language to assist your partner(s).
MMI Info Sheet (McGill University)
MMI Practice Questions (McGill University)
What it’s Like to Participate in Multiple Mini Interviews (AAMC)
Video: How to Crush the MMI (Medical School HQ)
Sample MMI Video – scenario, ethics
University of Michigan Sample MMI – scenario, collaborative task
University of Calgary Sample MMI – problem-solving
Bioethics for MMI at Columbia University
Ethics 101 for MMIs (Mappd webinar recordings)