Prospective students wishing to enter Physician Assistant training programs must go through an extensive interview process After reviewing the applications of numerous would be students, a short list if created and those applicants are contacted to come in for an interview. The interview questions can be really touch, so you need to be prepared ahead of time to answer them.

Here are some things that you may want to think about as you prepare for that interview.

1. You have to know that the interview process counts big time if you are going to be accepted into the program. The scores on your tests may be excellent, your education and experience impeccable, and your essays have shown your particular flare, but it is the interview which will provide the school with a better idea of who you are. It is important that you be able to demonstrate your compassion, practicality, understanding, honesty, maturity, and confidence. This is better demonstrated through an in person interview.

2. The purpose of the interview is to help determine if you can communicate effectively. Because you will soon be working with patients and doctors in a number of different settings, you must be able to focus, remain polite, be sharp and capable of communicating regardless of where you are working. 

Interview Process

Interviews typically begin with the financial aid officer as well as the director of the program speaking with you in a group setting. Afterward, applicants will be asked a series of Physician Assistant Interview Questions. Prospective students are split into 2 groups where the first group goes on to the interview process while the other is allowed to sit in on a class with some first year students. The behavior of all potential students is being closely monitored during this time so be on your best behavior.

Physician Assistant Interview Questions

Here are some of the top questions you may have to answer during your interview.

1. How have you used academics to prepare you to enter this profession? While answering this question, you may want to let them know how you were able to balance everything in your life as you went through the process of getting your education. Were you able to work part-time and do some volunteer work? Multi-tasking and time management are key to being successful in this field.

2. What do you consider some of the main problems facing the healthcare system? This is where you get to show that you are watching and listening to the concerns within your targeted industry. This question is not just about rote memorization of things you have read, but more about your studied knowledge about the healthcare system.

3. What has inspired you to want to become a Physician Assistant? The answer to this question is very important and you must answer it with real feeling. You may also be asked why you did not choose to become a Nurse Practitioner instead.

4. Have you ever been deeply moved by your experience with a specific patient. The purpose of this questions is to allow you to demonstrate your compassionate side and how well you communicate.

Using these Physician Assistant Interview Questions you will be able to better prepare for the interview that is sure to come.