What to Expect in Your Dental School Interview
Congratulations! You’ve submitted your application, crushed the DAT, and now you’ve landed the dental school interview invite—arguably one of the most exciting (and nerve-wracking) parts of the journey.
This is your chance to step out from behind the stats and show admissions committees who you really are. At Dental School Declassified, we help pre-dental students prepare for interviews with confidence and clarity. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what to expect—from the format to the questions—and how to prepare like a pro.
Why the Interview Matters
Your interview isn’t just about repeating your resume. It’s your opportunity to:
Showcase your personality and passion for dentistry
Demonstrate emotional intelligence and professionalism
Explain any red flags or clarify unique aspects of your application
Connect with the school's mission and community
It’s the final piece of the puzzle in a holistic review—so every moment counts.
Interview Formats You Might Encounter
Traditional One-on-One Interview
You’ll speak with one or two interviewers (faculty, students, or administrators) in a structured conversation. Expect a mix of personal, ethical, and situational questions.
💡 Tip: Build rapport and be authentic—this is where interpersonal skills shine.
2. Panel Interview
You’ll face a group of 2–5 interviewers who take turns asking questions. This format can feel intense, but it's great for showcasing poise and professionalism.
💡 Tip: Maintain eye contact with all panel members, not just the one asking the question.
3. Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI)
You rotate through short, timed stations, each with a prompt or scenario. These often test ethics, communication, and decision-making—not just content knowledge.
💡 Tip: Practice thinking aloud and supporting your logic clearly and calmly.
4. Group Interviews or Activities
Some schools include team-based problem-solving or discussion to observe how you collaborate with others.
💡 Tip: Listen actively, contribute respectfully, and avoid dominating the group.
Common Dental School Interview Questions
Personal Questions
Tell me about yourself.
Why do you want to be a dentist?
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Dental Motivation & Experience
What experiences confirmed your interest in dentistry?
Tell us about a time you shadowed a dentist.
How do you see the future of dentistry evolving?
Ethical & Situational Questions
How would you handle a classmate cheating in a lab?
A patient refuses treatment—what do you do?
How would you explain a complex procedure to a nervous patient?
Behavioral Questions
Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult teammate.
Describe a leadership role and what you learned.
How do you manage stress and stay organized?
How to Prepare (and Stand Out)
✅ 1. Know Your Application Inside and Out
Be ready to expand on your personal statement, experiences, and any red flags (like a W or low grade).
✅ 2. Research Each School
Tailor your answers to the school's mission, curriculum style, and unique programs.
✅ 3. Practice with Mock Interviews
At Dental School Declassified, we run realistic, school-specific mock interviews to build your confidence, polish your answers, and eliminate filler words or nervous habits.
✅ 4. Prepare Questions for Them
At the end of your interview, you’ll likely be asked, “Do you have any questions for us?” Always say yes.
Good question ideas:
What do students say is their favorite part of the program?
How does the school support student wellness and mental health?
What makes a student successful here?
Final Thoughts
Dental school interviews are as much about connection as they are about content. Schools want to see that you're empathetic, driven, curious, and ready to be part of their community.
With the right preparation—and a little coaching—you’ll walk in confident and come out with an acceptance email.
Need Help with Interview Prep?
At Dental School Declassified, we offer:
✔️ One-on-one mock interviews
✔️ MMI training
✔️ Custom feedback to help you stand out
