Introduction

The MMI or multiple mini interview is a interview technique that was pioneered by McMasters University in Canada and has been in use since 2004. It consists of a series of interview stations which evaluate a candidates suitability through both traditional questions and also scenarios.

In the years since it was first developed, the MMI has become an increasingly popular selection criteria utilized by a number of universities worldwide in Canada, USA, UK and Australia.

The MMI was first introduced in light of several flaws observed in the ‘traditional interview,’ notably interviewer bias, large use of resources and the lack of correlation with future medical performance. Utilizing the new short format MMI, many of these shortcomings were adequately addressed.

Format
The format of the MMI differs depending on variations introduced by different universities. However, overall it remains quite similar. It consists of multiple stations generally 7-12, each with a single interviewer (although additional observers may be present sometimes). These stations then present a scenario or question to the student, the student then responds and the interviewer may present additional prompts to further the dialogue. Ideally the interviewee should finish within the allocated time. This time varies between universities, but is usually 7-10 minutes. The interviewee then leaves the station upon a signal (bell ring) and there is a 2 minute delay to the next station.

Scenarios:
The scenario’s presented will differ between universities. However, they generally cover five different areas of interest.

1) Communication skills

2) Ethical situations

3) Critical thinking / Problem solving

4) Health issues, education and the role of health care providers

5) Traditional interview questions

Some universities have also been known to employ unique stations (folding origami) that attempt to further test the spatial skills and/or cognitive skills of applicants.