Birmingham Dentistry Interview Questions
This article was updated in September 2024 with the latest information, and we will continue to regularly update it!
The University of Birmingham School of Dentistry is where top scientists, professionals, and students come together for world-class research and to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate degrees through their renowned programs. In this guide we provide an expert insight into past University of Birmingham dentistry Interview topics, the Birmingham MMI day, and tips for converting your University of Birmingham interview into an offer!
For more general information about the Birmingham Dental School, check out this page: Birmingham Dental School
2024/25 Birmingham Dentistry Interview in a Nutshell
What is the Birmingham Interview style?
The interviews for the University of Birmingham School of Dentistry typically focus on assessing a candidate’s suitability for the program through a mix of traditional and multiple-mini interviews (MMI). There are about 5 – 10 MMI stations lasting 5-10 minutes each, with a break between stations for reading. You can read more about UoB School of Dentistry interviews here
What are the Birmingham MMI Dates?
Interviews will take place throughout February half term week. Applicants will continue to be invited to interview until all places have been filled.
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What are the common topics covered at the Birmingham Dentistry Interview?
The common topics covered in the Birmingham Dentistry interview include:
- Work experience
- Commitment and Motivation for Dentistry
- Manual dexterity
- Problem solving
- Empathy and self-insight
- Communication
- Resilience and leadership
At Medic Mind we’ve helped many students secure offers from UoB and other Dental schools. If you’re applying to UoB, we can do a high quality 1-1 mock with you with a UoB tutor and realistic stations uniquely for UoB.
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List of Recent Birmingham Dentistry Interview Topics
| Theme | Birmingham (Dentistry) Example Questions |
|---|---|
| Motivation for Dentistry | Commitment to the career |
| Work Experience | Reflect on experiences Volunteering |
| Communication & Role-Play | Actor may be in a dental setting Show empathy and compassion Helping someone feel better Dealing with frustrated people |
| Personality & Skills | Hobbies Extra curricular activities When have you showed good leadership skills Personal strengths and weaknesses |
| NHS Hot Topics | Could mention in other stations to show relevant knowledge |
| Medical Ethics | Discuss ethical scenarios e.g. colleagues breach guidelines |
| Other | Manual dexterity |
If you want to practise for Birmingham’s MMI, here are some sample questions:
- How would you comfort a friend who has lost their family pet?
- What was the most valuable lesson you learned during a work experience placement, and why?
- How can you demonstrate your commitment to dentistry?
- Tell me about your volunteering experience.
- How would you handle patients complaining about long wait times in your surgery?
- What do you do in your free time to relax?
- How would you respond if a fellow dental student cheated on an exam, and why?
Check out the official Birmingham School of Dental Sciences course page here, so that you know what to expect from this course: Official Page
Insider Guide: Birmingham Dentistry Interview Day
How did the Birmingham Interview day work?
We arrived at our scheduled time and waited in the reception of the Dental Hospital. After a 10 minute wait, we were taken to a classroom where we were registered and an introduction was given about the course, university and interview by a member of staff.
After the introduction, we participated in several short MMI stations. A guided tour of the dental school and facilities was included giving us a chance to see the learning environment and resources available. We were given an opportunity to ask current students or staff questions about the program, student life, and any other relevant topics. The day ended with a brief session where we clarified any last-minute questions and received information on the next steps in the admissions process.
What do you have to wear for the Birmingham Dentistry Interview?
The dress code is ‘smart’, so I wore what I might wear for a job interview. An outfit that reflected professionalism and respect.
What is the setting for the Birmingham MMI?
The Birmingham interview took place in a teaching clinic and each of the stations were set up in a separate area. This setup provided some isolation and allowed us to focus on our individual stations.
How do you receive information for the Birmingham MMI questions?
Before each station, we received instructions and had a few minutes to read and prepare. I used this time to develop a solid response and considered relevant topics to discuss. It gave us a good opportunity to take deep breaths and to calm ourselves before moving on to the next station.
What were the Birmingham MMI interviewers like?
All of the examiners in this interview were very friendly which helped us stay calm. They engaged in conversation and were easy to talk to. They maintained a formal and respectful demeanour throughout the interview process. They assessed our skills and responses based on criteria like communication, problem-solving, and ethical reasoning.
Did the Birmingham MMI interviewers ask a lot of follow up questions?
The follow-up questions from examiners weren’t on the instruction sheets but were generally related to each station’s topic. Some were from a set list, while others were based on our responses.
How long is the actual Birmingham interview?
The Birmingham interview consists of 5 – 10 MMI stations lasting 5-10 minutes. My interview lasted around 40-50 minutes.
What do you advise for the day? (Accommodation, Travelling)
Allow plenty of time for your journey and ensure your navigation system directs you to the new Dental Hospital, not the old building. If you need accommodation, book early to avoid stress and stay close to the university to minimise travel time. Plan for extra time in case of traffic or transport issues. Being well-prepared will help you arrive on time and reduce any unwanted stress.
How long did it take you to hear back after your Birmingham interview?
It took two to three weeks for me to hear back but this varies by candidate.
Top Tips for the Birmingham Dentistry Interview
- Practise talking for longer periods of time. The stations last for 5-10 minutes, which is quite long in comparison to other interviews, so make sure you get used to speaking for a long time and giving extensive answers.
- Relax before the interview starts. If you have a tour before your interview, use this as your time to calm your mind and prepare for the upcoming interview. If you have your interview first, make sure you stay calm beforehand.
Go through some ethical scenarios. You need to be able to discuss both sides of an argument and come to an informed conclusion, so the more you practise, the better. UCAT SJTs are a good place to start for these.
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Frequently Asked Question
→How Should I Prepare for Birmingham Dentistry Interview?
You will need to familiarise yourself with the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) programme curriculum, develop an understanding of current dental issues, and practise your communication and critical thinking skills. It is also advisable to seek guidance from current dental students or professionals and undertake mock interviews. Here’s an article by the Birmingham Dentistry programme on the preparation to apply.
→What is Birmingham Dentistry Interview and What Does It Entail?
The Birmingham Dentistry interview is an important part of the admissions process for the University of Birmingham’s dental school. It typically involves a series of questions covering dentistry, medical ethics, communication skills, and general aptitude.
→What Types of Questions Can I Expect in Birmingham Dentistry Interview?
Be ready to explain why you’re passionate about dentistry and how you’ve pursued this interest. You should also show your involvement in dentistry or healthcare activities and your commitment to helping others. Expect questions about your ability to empathise with different people and communicate effectively.
→What Are the Interviewers Looking for in Birmingham Dentistry Interview?
Academic excellence alone isn’t enough for a successful application. You also need to show your strong motivation for a career in dentistry. The interview seeks students who are not only academically capable but also passionate about becoming dentists. They consider your academic record, confidential report, and non-academic interests and achievements.
→What are the Entry Requirements for Birmingham Dentistry Programme?
For the Birmingham Dentistry Programme entry requirements, all applicants must:
Apply through UCAS
Offer acceptable academic qualifications
Ideally show evidence of work experience in a Dental Practice setting (ideally 3 days or more in a NHS or mixed NHS/private practice)
Show evidence of voluntary work in society
Sit the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) in year of application
Attend an interview if invited
A complete application must be submitted to UCAS by the 15th October deadline. They will not consider supplementary information received by the university after this deadline.
→How Competitive is Admission into Birmingham Dentistry Programme?
Admission into Birmingham Dentistry Programme is highly competitive, with the university receiving a high number of applications annually. However, meeting the entry requirements and performing well in the interview can improve your chances of being accepted.
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