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Aberdeen Dentistry Interview Questions
Note: This interview Q&A is based on pre-Covid in-person interviews (from 2019 and before). All university interviews changed in 2020-2021 to an online format due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This article was updated in December 2023 with the latest information, and we will continue to regularly update it!
The University of Aberdeen offers Scotland’s only 4-year graduate entry Dentistry course set within the Institute of Dentistry, a purpose-built facility with new and modern teaching and learning facilities.
For more general information about the Aberdeen Dental School, check out this page: Aberdeen Dentistry
The Aberdeen Dentistry interview has a MMI format. In this guide we provide the latest updates for the 2023/24 interviews, an expert insight into past Aberdeen interview stations, the Aberdeen interview day and tips for converting your Aberdeen Dentistry interview into an offer!
2023/24 Aberdeen Dentistry Interview in a Nutshell
What is the Aberdeen Dentistry Interview style?
Aberdeen will be holding in-person MMIs for the 2023/24 admissions cycle. Stations will be objectively scored by different assessors and will each last 7 minutes.
The interview day will also include a tour of the campus facilitated by current BDS students who will hold informal Q&As with the applicants to give a unique insight into life at Aberdeen.
What are the Aberdeen Dentistry MMI Dates?
Exact dates have not been released but applicants will be given suitable dates over a period of weeks when invited.
What are the common topics covered at the Aberdeen Dentistry MMI?
- Work experience
- Knowledge of current issues in the field
- Problem-solving and analytical thinking skills
- Motivation to pursue Dentistry
- Interpersonal skills, specifically, communication skills
- Manual dexterity
At Medic Mind we’ve helped many students secure offers from Aberdeen and other Dental schools. If you’re applying to Aberdeen, we can do a high quality 1-1 mock with you with a Aberdeen tutor and realistic stations uniquely for Aberdeen.
List of Recent Aberdeen Dentistry Interview Topics
| Theme | Aberdeen (Dentistry) Example Questions |
|---|---|
| Motivation for Dentistry | Commitment to the career |
| Work Experience | Insight into the career from work experience |
| Communication | Inter-professional communication |
| Personality & Skills | Demonstrating teamwork Self-reflection on strengths and weaknesses |
| NHS Hot Topics | Problem-solving or analysis of issues in the field |
| University-specific | Knowledge of the course and postgraduate training pathways Reasons for wanting to study at Aberdeen |
| Other | Manual dexterity |
If you wish to practice Aberdeen MMI mocks, here are some sample questions:
- What have you learned about the career from your work experience placements?
- What communication skills are necessary to be an effective leader?
- Tell us about any volunteering experiences you have had.
- From your work experience, what did you learn about the challenges of a career in Dentistry?
- What do you know about the Aberdeen dentistry course?
- What are your biggest strengths and weaknesses.
- Tell us about a time you cared for someone else and what you learnt.
Check out the official Aberdeen School of Dental Sciences course page here, so that you know what to expect from this course: Official Page
Insider Guide: Aberdeen Dentistry Interview Day
How does the Aberdeen Interview day work?
Aberdeen will be hosting in-person MMIs for the 2023/24 admissions cycle. Stations will be 7 minutes each and test a range of skills, from self-reflection to communication.
Following the interview, candidates will be given a tour of the facilities by students at the university. This is a good time for candidates to learn more about Dentistry at Aberdeen from the student body.
Kickstart your Dentistry Interview Prep
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What do you have to wear for the Aberdeen Dentistry Interview?
The dress code is as expected for any interview – smart. Candidates must adhere to this strictly and if confused, you’re better off being dressed more formally than less. Keep in mind that the North of Scotland can get quite cold so prepare for this!
Is any pre-reading required for the Aberdeen Dentistry MMI?
The Aberdeen MMI does not require any prior dentistry knowledge. However, candidates should have a strong grasp of medical ethics, current issues in the field and the NHS constitution.
What are the Aberdeen MMI interviewers like?
Aberdeen assessors are typically quite friendly. However, it is not uncommon for some interviewers to be quite neutral in expression and language. This is often done to test the candidate’s ability to perform and communicate under pressure as well as provide unbiased assessments of the applicant cohort. Don’t be thrown off by their neutrality; instead, keep calm and confident when answering the questions.
How is the Aberdeen MMI scored?
Aberdeen employs an objective marking scheme for each station. The areas in which candidates will be scored include;
- Coherent expression of ideas
- Use of existing knowledge to analyze unknown concepts
- Debate skills
- Preparation for the MMI
- Ability to holistically approach various aspects of a question
- Motivation and interest shown in the career
- Insight into teamwork
How long is the actual Aberdeen interview?
The interview itself lasts around 90 minutes but candidates should expect to stay longer to make time for identification checks and the tour.
Logistical advice for the day?
For in-person interviews, ensure you plan your journey well in advance, including making allowances for bad weather conditions. Ensure you wrap up warm as it can get quite cold up in Aberdeen. Carry snacks, water and a book (or other hobby) to allow for maximum comfort and distraction to help you calm your nerves.
In the weeks prior to your interview, ensure you organize multiple copies of any documentation required by the university as well as relevant contact information for the MMI organizers to ensure logistical ease on the day.
How long does it take to hear back after the Aberdeen interview?
It can take a few weeks to months to hear back however, delays are to be expected due to the pandemic.
Top Tips for the Aberdeen Dentistry Interview
- Do as many mock interviews as possible! The interviews can be daunting simply because of the pressures and setting of it, as opposed to the questions themselves. Familiarity breeds confidence so do as many mock MMIs as you can to gain confidence in speaking for lengthy periods of time and reflecting adequately. Sign up to our Dentistry mock MMI circuit here: Dentistry mock MMI
- Learn about the course. You should be able to show assessors that you are committed to pursuing Dentistry at Aberdeen. Learn about the demographics that Aberdeen serves and the unique aspects of their BDS course.
- Strengthen your problem-solving and analytical skills. The Aberdeen interview focusses on problem-solving skills, especially centered around issues affecting dental care provision and the future of dentistry. Consider the future of dentistry and the ways in which it can be further improved.
- Practice non-verbal communication techniques. Tools like appropriate eye-contact and body language can help boost confidence and the examiner’s impressions of you as a candidate. However, this may not come naturally to you at this stage. Therefore, record yourself on camera and watch it back to critique your own verbal and non-verbal communication style.
Frequently Asked Question
→What is the Aberdeen Dentistry interview?
The Aberdeen Dentistry interview is an important part of the application process for the Dentistry program at the University of Aberdeen. It is designed to assess the suitability of applicants for the program and to identify those who have the necessary qualities and skills to become successful dentists.
→What kind of questions are asked during the Aberdeen Dentistry interview?
The Aberdeen Dentistry interview includes a range of questions that are designed to test the applicant’s knowledge, skills, and suitability for the program. Questions may include topics related to dentistry, as well as broader questions related to the applicant’s interests, experiences, and personal qualities.
→How can applicants prepare for the Aberdeen Dentistry interview?
Applicants can prepare for the Aberdeen Dentistry interview by researching the program and familiarizing themselves with the types of questions that may be asked. They can also practice their interview skills by engaging in mock interviews with friends, family members, or a professional interviewer.
→How should applicants approach the Aberdeen Dentistry interview?
Applicants should approach the Aberdeen Dentistry interview with confidence and professionalism. They should be prepared to answer questions thoughtfully and thoroughly, while also demonstrating their enthusiasm for the program and their commitment to becoming successful dentists. They should also be prepared to ask questions of their own, to show their interest in the program and to learn more about what it has to offer.
→How hard is it to get into the University of Aberdeen Institute of Dentistry?
The University of Aberdeen Institute of Dentistry is one of the top dental schools in the UK, and admission to the program can be competitive. The admissions process typically considers a variety of factors, including academic qualifications, work experience, and personal statement.
To be considered for admission, applicants will typically need to have completed relevant academic qualifications, such as A-levels or an equivalent qualification, with strong grades in science and mathematics. They may also be required to sit the UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT) or the Biomedical Admissions Test (BMAT).
In addition to academic qualifications, work experience in a relevant field, such as healthcare or dentistry, may be beneficial for applicants. A strong personal statement that highlights relevant experience, personal qualities, and career aspirations can also improve an applicant’s chances of being accepted.
Overall, admission to the University of Aberdeen Institute of Dentistry can be competitive, but with strong academic qualifications, relevant work experience, and a well-crafted personal statement, applicants can increase their chances of being accepted into the program.
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