What is the MMI?
The MMI consists of a series of short, carefully timed interview scenarios or questions. Scenarios aim to draw multiple samples of applicants' ability to think on their feet, to critically appraise information, to communicate their ideas, and to explore their professional reasoning.
Applicants will complete a circuit of eight ten-minute mini-interview stations, rotating from station to station. At each station, candidates will have two minutes to read a 'scenario' or question. Candidates then have eight minutes to either interact with a rater who may ask questions or be observed by the rater while interacting with an actor or another applicant.
Advantages of the MMI:
- More reliable
- More chances to perform well
- More equitable opportunity for those of diverse backgrounds to demonstrate quality
- Less biased way to evaluate applicants
- Test characteristics such as cultural sensitivity, maturity, teamwork, empathy, reliability, and communication skills
- Fast-paced
Studies of the MMI in Canadian and U.S. medical schools have shown that it can be more reliable and valid than the traditional one-on-one interview process. In addition, both MMI raters and applicants alike report positive feedback regarding the MMI.
Because an applicant’s performance can vary depending on the situation, the MMI uses multiple short interview stations rather than relying on a single traditional interview. Each station evaluates different aspects of communication, critical thinking, professionalism, judgment, and interpersonal skills. Using several independent scenarios allows the admissions team to develop a broader and more consistent assessment of each applicant.
Preparation
The MMI does not test an applicant's specific knowledge in any given subject. There is absolutely no intent to test their present knowledge of the health sciences. Clinical knowledge is no more useful than knowledge from any other discipline, including chemistry, music, or literature. We are, however, trying to assess the applicant's ability to apply general knowledge to issues relevant to culture and society in which they will be practicing should they gain admission to PA school. Equally important is the applicant's ability to communicate and defend their personal opinions.
In order to prepare for an MMI, the applicant must understand the goal of the MMI, which is to observe whether you are able to excel as a student and able to be an outstanding Physician Assistant in the future. Make a list of the attributes that would comprise both a good student and Physician Assistant and incorporate these characteristics (integrity, altruism, responsibility, etc.) in your interviews. Practicing time management will also help the applicants become familiar with the eight-minute time limit.
