@MoreNmore
It seems clear on what they use to select for interview. What gets you the offer is where it all seems to go dark
I don’t think that’s true. It’s done on a points based system, whether it’s MMI or the more traditional panel interview.
And yes, you can prepare for MMI, there are books and websites that give typical questions and it’s useful to practise these, especially if your child is younger, less confident or not a natural debater.
I’ve found this thread very interesting . Especially the way that some posters cling to the idea that the admissions system is somehow different for the “ top pupils “ from “ top schools “ applying to “ top medical schools “. Even when they have repeatedly been told that the application system is as objective and evidence based as possible and universities have to be accountable for it.
I can’t decide if it’s because they are so convinced that their money MUST be buying some kind of privilege at admission stage, otherwise what’s the point. They can’t accept that they have forked out all that cash for years and little Sebastian will be treated just the same as Ahmed from the comp down the road.
Yes of course, your money has bought many privileges . But automatic or easier entry into medical school isn’t one of them.
Of course it’s in the schools interest to subtlety imply that this is the case. Although I note a lack of any evidence from anyone on this thread, it’s all hints that an admission tutor whispered this secret knowledge one day to one of of the staff at these “ top schools “. A bit like the Masons.
Alternatively, it may be that some posters need an excuse as to why their their “ top pupils “ aren’t getting into what they personally have decided are the top medical schools. It must be the mean old universities discriminating against them because of their own idea of context.
“ Oh no we can’t possibly interview Sebastian with his UKCAT of 860 and his AAA, I know Old Smythe his tutor at Harrow and he says all the boys there do at least 4 A levels”.
It doesn’t happen. Nearly every medical school selects for interview on a points based system and they usually tell you what they take into account - some combination of GCSEs, PS, A levels and entrance tests.
Then the interview is also points based. Most MMI interviewers are blinded to the applicants background , as a PP said. The PS is usually discussed at one station but that’s it. References are screened.
Kids from Eton don’t have to do better than those from grammar schools. However kids from Eton don’t get any EXTRA kudos from having done work experience with daddy who is Professor of surgery at KCL. They may in fact get fewer points at that station than Ahmed from the comp who worked part time in a nursing home for a year.
Not because of “ context” , but because Ahmed probably has more insight into patient care , ethical dilemmas and the issues affecting staff than the lad who floated around dad’s department for a week and shook a few hands.
When you are accustomed to privilege, equality feels like discrimination.