For 2024 entry, the Birmingham Dental School will be conducting all interviews in person. It is important that you read the below frequently asked questions to find out more about how interviews will work and what you need to do to prepare.
Well done on being selected to interview for a place with us! We hope you are looking forward to your interview, we’re looking forward to meeting you all. We design our interviews to be a challenging but hopefully fun process – don’t be afraid to expect some unexpected questions.
Please try not to overthink or give rehearsed answers and be yourself on the day. We want to get to know you, not a script you have prepared!
Accessibility Requirements
- Dentistry requires a certain level of physical and mental ability – please take a look at the HEOPS Dental Students Fitness Standards Document for more information. If you have concerns you may not meet this criteria, please contact us prior to your interview so we can advise further.
- If you have any concerns regarding the format of the interview, minimal reading is expected within the preparation time. No extra time is allowed for candidates who may be used to having extra time, as minimal reading and writing is required and there is ample time.
- We are unable to accept requests for Extenuating Circumstances submitted after the interview. If you feel something has happened which you feel will affect your performance, you must contact us prior to your interview. It is then up to you if you would like to continue with the interview or reschedule – in certain circumstances we would consider a postponement of your interview to the next year. Please note, we do not allow reapplications if you are unsuccessful at interview. In the unfortunate event of illness or a bereavement, please consider carefully if you consider yourself fit to sit the interview.
What do I need to do to prepare for my interview?
- Ensure you have valid photographic ID with you to show us on the day. If you do not have a photo ID, please do let us know at least one week before your interview so that we can verify you in another way. If we cannot verify you, we will not be able to interview you.
- Dress appropriately – school uniform is fine, please do not feel you need to purchase any new clothing.
- Practice speaking with people of all ages about your motivation to study Dental Surgery, both in person and online.
How will my interview work?
- Your interview slot will be 2.5 hours in total, which will consist of registration (30 minutes), your interview (1 hour) and a tour and chance to speak to our current students (1 hour). You will find out whether you will be taking a tour first or having your interview first at registration.
- Your interview will consist of 4 stations; no prior knowledge of Dentistry is necessary.
- You will be marked on performance at each station by assessors who have no prior knowledge of interview candidates.
- You may be assessed on your behaviour and interactions throughout your time with us.
When will I find out if I have an offer?
- We will aim to contact all applicants within 4 weeks of our interview dates.
I need to reschedule my interview, what do I need to do?
- We will only consider rescheduling an interview for a very strong reason, such as illness, hospitalisation or attending a funeral, we cannot guarantee a rescheduled appointment.
- Due to the volume of candidates we are interviewing, rescheduled interview dates will either not be permitted, or given at very short notice.
What if I am running late for my interview?
- We recommend that you arrive five minutes before your registration time. If you arrive late on the day, we will do our best to reschedule your interview, but we cannot guarantee this.
What if I feel I have been unfairly treated?
- If you feel you have been unfairly treated or if something disrupts your interview on the day, please do email us at dentadmissions@contacts.bham.ac.uk or call us on 0121 466 5472 and we will be happy to assist.
Who do I need to contact in case I have additional questions before my interview?