What interview format does Penn use?

Penn does not publish its interview format. 158 applicants reporting to Student Doctor Network describe 99% one-on-one, 92% open file, 33 min on average.

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University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine: Interview Preparation

99% one-on-one

What 158 applicants reported after interviewing at Penn.

Practice a one on one →

First interview free

The rest of what they reported

92% open fileopen vs closed

33 minaverage length

1.6interviews each

If your invitation says MMI

Penn Dental never names a format. Penn's own career services office, which advises Penn undergraduates applying out to dental school, says schools tell you in advance when they use an MMI. So read your invitation. If it says MMI, practise that instead.

Practice an MMI →

What they ask

Tell me about a mistake you've made.
Tell me about a disappointment you have experienced.
What have you done that shows initiative? What did you gain from that experience?
Tell me about a conflict that arose between you and a supervisor or peer, and how you handled it.
How do you respond to criticism? Describe a situation where your work was criticized.
Rank intelligence, compassion, and integrity in the order of importance to you.

Penn Dental publishes no questions. This list is Penn Career Services' handout for its own undergraduates applying to dental school, so it is not Penn Dental's list and not Penn specific. It is still worth reading, because it leans on reflection and judgement, which is what applicants say the Penn interview actually tests. See the list · 100 questions to practise.

The school's own words

“Interviews (by invitation only) are held weekly from September through March.”— Penn Dental Medicine, DMD Admissions · source

Penn does not publish its interview format. These are applicant reports to Student Doctor Network over 11 years, self-reported and unverified. See the reports.

Worth knowing

Applicants describe critical thinking and reflection on past experience, not a quiz on your file. Bring stories, not facts.

All 100 questions Free question guide