In a medical school interview, your first impression is often the only impression you get to make. With just a handshake, your aim is to come across as professional, confident, and trustworthy. After all the hard work you have put into your premed journey, this is your moment to shine as the outstanding applicant you are.

In this post, we offer advice to help you not only make the best impression but also feel confident on interview day.

Table of Contents

• Professional Guidelines for Medical School Interview Attire
• The Finishing Touch: Confidence and Presence

Professional Guidelines for Medical School Interview Attire

It is important that your interviewer get a sense of who you are from you, not from your clothes. Even if you are not trying to make a statement, your top knot and hoop earrings might be more memorable than your three years of research or volunteer work. If your attire raises an eyebrow, your interviewer could spend the rest of the interview distracted by your appearance rather than gaining a sense of the true you.

To help you dress for success, we have broken down the interview outfit from head to toe. Let’s start with the key piece: the suit.

Suit

Business suits come in a myriad of colors and styles. For a medical school interview, choose a classic cut in black, navy blue, or gray. Skirt suits and pantsuits are both acceptable, so pick whichever makes you feel more comfortable. Make sure to remove all tags, stickers, and pins before your interview. Cut the loose stitching inside any pockets and/or along the skirt slit before you leave the house. 

If you are wearing an older suit, try it on well before interview day. You want to be certain that it fits just right and has all seams and buttons intact. Preparing your outfit ahead of time also gives you the opportunity to get it professionally cleaned and steamed. 

Have a backup suit in place, including coordinating socks/hose and shoes, and don’t forget to do a quick pass with a lint roller before you head out the door. 

Shirt and Tie

Go for a simple oxford button-down or a nice blouse that does not wrinkle too easily. Aim for a polished, professional look.

If wearing a tie, choose one that complements your suit. Stick to classic colors and traditional patterns. Avoid novelty ties, and use a standard, professional knot. 

Belt 

If your skirt or pants have belt loops, chances are your look will seem more complete if you wear a belt. Ensure the belt you choose enhances your suit and is comfortable. 

Skirt  

If you choose to wear a suit with a skirt, be sure to try it on while seated to confirm that it remains comfortable, looks professional, and fits appropriately. Skirts should not ride up when sitting and should not be overly tight or feature high slits.

Pants 

Hem your pants to an appropriate length that complements the shoes you plan to wear. Make sure to iron your pants or have them pressed before your interview.

Shoes and Socks

Closed toe, low heeled, and tasteful is the way to go. To bring your look together, shoes should be well polished, and your belt should match your shoes. Definitely do not wear sandals, casual loafers, or boat shoes.

If you’d like to show a bit of personality, subtle, fun socks that coordinate with your suit are a tasteful option.

Bag 

If you bring a bag, choose a medium-sized one that will fit your portfolio folder (which should include extra copies of your admissions resume and application) and any papers or handouts you receive that day.

Jewelry 

Choose minimal, understated accessories that won’t distract during the interview: small, simple earrings, if worn, and a subtle necklace or chain (including a discreet religious symbol, if you choose). Avoid noisy jewelry – such as too many bracelets, which can be distracting.

Hair 

Make sure your hair is neat. Keep your hair out of your face, and try not to touch or play with it during your interview.

The Finishing Touch: Confidence and Presence

Professional attire certainly matters during medical school interviews, but how you present yourself matters just as much! A confident, genuine smile and strong eye contact can leave a lasting positive impression.

Now that you know how to dress for your medical school interview, it’s time to focus on how to communicate your story effectively. To get started, schedule a free consultation with one of Accepted’s medical school admissions experts today!

Related Resources

• Med School Timeline: Secondaries, Interviews, Decisions
• How to Answer Questions That Stump You in a Medical School Interview, Accepted YouTube video
• Med School Admissions Officers Reveal Interview Timeline, Admissions Straight Talk podcast