Traditionalmd

Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine Medical School Interview Guide

Interview Format

A one-on-one or panel interview lasting 30–60 minutes. Interviewers ask open-ended questions about your experiences, motivations, and character. Depth and authenticity matter most.

What Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine Looks For

To improve human health through the integration of outstanding patient care, cutting-edge research, and the education of exceptional physicians and scientists. Wash U School of Medicine is consistently ranked among the top medical schools for research funding and faculty productivity.

Key Themes to Prepare

·Traditional open-file interviews with faculty — typically two one-on-one sessions.
·Wash U is a research powerhouse: faculty are leaders in cancer biology, neuroscience, immunology, and genomics.
·Interviewers expect you to have a genuine, developed research interest — not just exposure to research, but ideas about what you want to pursue.
·Be prepared to discuss your research in depth and pivot to broader implications.
·Wash U also has a strong clinical enterprise at Barnes-Jewish Hospital — demonstrate clinical commitment alongside research drive.
·The Medical Scientist Training Program (MD/PhD) is one of the best funded in the country.

Common Question Topics

·"Why medicine?" and your personal journey
·Meaningful clinical and research experiences
·Healthcare policy and systemic challenges
·Strengths, weaknesses, and personal growth

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