Virtual vs In-Person Residency Interviews: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Congratulations! You have submitted your residency application. Now comes one of the most important steps: interview season. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many programs shifted to virtual residency interviews, but some specialties, especially surgical and subsurgical fields, have transitioned back to in-person formats. This guide explains what to expect from both virtual and in-person residency interviews, how to prepare, and the pros and cons of each.
TL;DR
- Virtual residency interviews are cost effective, convenient, and less disruptive to rotations.
- In-person residency interviews provide firsthand insight into hospital culture and location.
- Preparation matters in both formats: know your application, research programs, and practice responses.
- Applicants do not always get to choose the format, but understanding both will help you succeed.
What to Expect in Virtual Residency Interviews
Virtual interviews are designed to streamline the process. They often take place over a half or full day, commonly via Zoom or platforms like Thalamus.
- Schedule: Programs may host a pre-interview social, conduct back to back interviews with faculty and program leadership, and sometimes hold Q&A sessions or virtual tours.
- Benefits: Save money, avoid travel stress, and minimize time away from rotations.
- Drawbacks: It can be harder to get a true feel for program culture and there are fewer casual networking opportunities.
For an in-depth guide focused solely on virtual interviews and how to stand out online, check out our Virtual Residency Interview Tips post.
What to Expect in In-Person Residency Interviews
In-person interviews are more immersive.
- Schedule: Hospital tours, face to face interviews, presentations, and meals with residents are common.
- Benefits: Experience the facilities and culture firsthand and connect more naturally with residents and faculty.
- Drawbacks: Travel costs and logistics can be stressful. Some students have reported spending up to $7,000 on interview travel.
How to Make a Good Impression in Any Format
For Virtual Residency Interviews
- Choose a quiet, distraction free space with professional lighting.
- Test audio, video, and Wi-Fi. Confirm how to reach the coordinator if you disconnect.
- Dress professionally as if attending in person.
- Look into the camera to simulate eye contact and use a warm tone to engage.
For In-Person Residency Interviews
- Arrive early and wear professional attire, typically a suit.
- Treat everyone with respect, including coordinators, residents, and fellow applicants.
- Maintain professionalism during informal interactions like meals or tours.
For Both Formats
- Know your application inside and out.
- Research each program and prepare thoughtful questions.
- Practice common residency interview questions.
- Be ready to explain why you are interested in that specific program.
Pros and Cons of Virtual vs In-Person Residency Interviews
Advantages of In-Person Interviews
- Immersive sense of hospital culture and resident dynamics.
- Ability to explore the city or state where you may live during training.
- Face to face interaction can make it easier to convey enthusiasm.
Disadvantages of In-Person Interviews
- Higher costs, often thousands of dollars for travel and lodging.
- More time away from rotations and personal commitments.
- Travel delays and logistics can add stress.
Advantages of Virtual Interviews
- Cost effective and efficient.
- Less disruption to clinical schedules.
- Greater control over environment such as lighting, background, and notes.
Disadvantages of Virtual Interviews
- Harder to assess program culture or camaraderie.
- Potential for technical glitches that disrupt the day.
- Fewer organic networking opportunities.
Final Tips for Success
- Get a good night of sleep beforehand.
- Bring enthusiasm, professionalism, and curiosity to every interaction.
- Afterward, reflect on how the program aligns with your goals and notes from the day.
Take Your Prep to the Next Level
Our Residency Mock Interviews are designed to help you practice under real conditions, get personalized feedback, and enter interview day with confidence.
Book a Mock Interview
FAQs About Residency Interviews
Do residency programs prefer virtual or in-person interviews?
It depends on the specialty and program. Many non-surgical programs maintain virtual interviews, while some surgical and subspecialty programs have returned to in-person formats. See current perspectives from the AAMC.
How should I prepare for a virtual residency interview?
Test your tech and confirm a backup plan with the coordinator. Choose a distraction free, professional setting. Dress fully professionally and maintain engagement through tone and body language. Guidance from the AAMC and AMA supports these practices.
Are in-person interviews worth the extra cost?
They can provide valuable insight into hospital culture and location. However, they come with significant financial and logistical burdens. Some students have reported spending up to $7,000 on interview travel, while virtual formats reduce these costs. See the AAMC discussion for more detail.
