What to expect from the vMMI
Your interview is an opportunity to show us who you are - not just what you know. We're excited to meet candidates who are thoughtful, curious, and committed to making a difference in medicine.
As part of our selection process for the Medicine MBBS course, all interviews are held online. We use asynchronous virtual Multiple Mini Interviews (vMMIs), which are usually scheduled between December and July. Please note, we have different rounds for Home and International students.
What is a vMMI and how does it work?
A virtual MMI (vMMI) mirrors the structure and content of traditional face-to-face MMIs. You'll encounter familiar types of questions and the same number of question stations. The key difference is in the format: rather than moving physically between rooms, you'll transition virtually between online stations - all from the comfort of your own space.
Interview format and structure
Our online interview process is flexible and simple: once you receive your invite, you'll have five days to complete your interview online. Your interview will consist of six mini-interview stations, each designed to assess a different attribute aligned with Good Medical Practice. Each lasts just over five minutes, with a short amount of thinking time followed by answer time.
At a convenient time for you, you just need to follow the link to log in and then complete your response to each of the six stations. Once you’ve completed your full interview, it'll be reviewed by one of our dedicated interview assessors from our Medical School or the wider medical community. You must make sure to submit your responses within your five-day deadline. In total, it should take you around 40 minutes to complete the entire interview.
Preparing for success: tips and guidance
Delivering a strong vMMI performance requires a slightly different approach than in-person interviews. Here's how you can prepare:
- Practice online interviews: Try mock interviews with a friend or family member via video call. Record yourself, review your performance, and ask for honest feedback. You'll quickly notice how different it feels compared to face-to-face conversations. When you receive your invite email, it will also include a link to our own practice area, that will allow you to complete some practice questions using the system and get some automated feedback on how you’ve done. Nothing that you record in the practice area is reviewed or assessed - so it’s a safe space for you to have a go before you do your real interview.
- Be yourself: We're not just looking for someone who can recite rehearsed answers. We want to hear your authentic voice - your motivations, your values, and your passion for medicine.
- Do your research: Familiarise yourself with the vMMI format and the kinds of attributes typically assessed. Understanding the purpose behind each station will help you respond with clarity and confidence.
Frequently asked questions
When will the Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs) take place for 2027 entry?
If you're invited to interview for 2027 entry, your MMI is expected to take place during one of the weeks below.
International fee-paying applicants
- 17 - 22 November 2026
- 12 - 17 January 2027
- 13 - 18 April 2027
- 18 - 23 May 2027
- 15 - 20 June 2027
- 6 - 11 July 2027
Home fee-paying applicants
- 16 - 21 February 2027
- 9 - 14 March 2027
These dates are provisional and may change. If you're invited to interview, we'll contact you with your confirmed interview date and time in advance.
How do asynchronous MMIs work as there isn't a live interviewer?
Each of the six stations includes a question that will appear on screen and be read aloud. You'll then have 30 seconds to think about your response and up to five minutes to answer. Once you've finished, your response will be recorded and saved, and reviewed by our MMI assessors at a later date.
Why are MMIs delivered in this way?
We use a recorded interview format to give you more flexibility. Rather than attending a live interview at a set time, you can complete your MMI at a time that works for you before the deadline. It also allows our assessors, including academic staff and NHS clinicians, to review applications alongside their professional commitments, helping us ensure every response is assessed fairly and consistently.
How long do I have to complete my MMI?
You'll have five days from the date your invitation email is sent to complete all six stations. Your deadline will always be midnight on the final day. For example, if you receive your invitation on a Wednesday, you'll have until the following Monday at midnight to submit all your responses. You'll also receive a reminder from Shortlister 24 hours before the deadline.
Do I need to complete all six stations in one sitting?
Yes. Once you complete a station, the website will take you to the next one. You may like to take a small break for a minute or so after you've finished each station before clicking to proceed.
How long does the MMI take?
Completing all six stations typically takes around 40 minutes.
How should I prepare for my MMI?
Our MMIs are scenario-based and designed to explore how you think and respond to different situations. You won't be asked biology-based questions or anything that requires detailed medical knowledge. The best preparation is to take time to understand the role of a doctor, reflect on your experiences and be ready to explain your reasoning.
Can I make notes during the thinking time?
Yes. You're welcome to make notes during the 30-second thinking period. If you'd like to do this, please use pen and paper rather than typing on your computer. Typing may be flagged by the system as potential AI use.
Can I use AI tools during my MMI?
No. The use of AI tools, including ChatGPT, Gemini and Copilot, is not permitted during your interview. Your responses must be your own work. If we have reason to believe AI has been used to generate or assist your answers, your application will be withdrawn from the admissions process.
Do I need to provide ID for my vMMI?
Yes. Before you begin your interview, you'll need to verify your identity using Yoti, a secure third-party online ID verification system integrated with Shortlister.
Please have a valid form of photo ID ready when you start your vMMI. Acceptable forms of ID include, but aren't limited to:
- A valid passport
- A valid driving licence
- A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
Other forms of government-issued photo ID may also be accepted. If you're unsure whether your ID is suitable, please contact the Shortlister support team at support@shortlister.com before starting your interview.
Can I re-record a station if I'm unhappy with my answer?
No. Once a response has been submitted, it cannot be re-recorded. If you experience a technical issue during a station, please contact support@shortlister.com as soon as possible. In some circumstances, a re-recording may be permitted.
What should I do if I experience technical difficulties?
Please contact support@shortlister.com, who will be able to help with any technical issues relating to the interview platform.
I'm busy during the next five days. Can I have an extension?
Extensions are only granted in exceptional circumstances. If you believe you need additional time, please contact bms-admissions@brunel.ac.uk as soon as possible. If your interview falls within an earlier interview round, it may be possible to move you to a later round instead. Please note that upcoming holidays, examinations, coursework deadlines and work commitments would not normally be considered exceptional circumstances.
What if I need extra time or other reasonable adjustments?
We're committed to ensuring applicants can participate fully in the admissions process. If you require extra time or any other reasonable adjustment, please contact bms-admissions@brunel.ac.uk as soon as possible so we can discuss your requirements.
Who can I contact for more information?
If you have any questions or need further guidance, our friendly enquiries team is here to help. Email bms-admissions@brunel.ac.uk, or call +44 (0)1895 265 265.
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