PA Program Interviews
The OHSU PA program interview gives you the opportunity to show us who you are beyond your application. This page covers our interview process, tips to help you prepare and everything you need to know about interview day.
On this page:
Interview process
The PA program uses a combination of multiple mini-interviews (MMIs), an individual interview and a group activity for our interview process.
Our process includes:
Multiple mini-interviews: Short, scenario-based interviews that assess noncognitive skills. Each station lasts 10 minutes, with 2 minutes to review the scenario or question and 8 minutes to respond. Stations may include role playing with an actor, completing a task or responding to a prompt.
Individual interview: A 15-minute, one-on-one interview with program leadership or senior faculty. You will answer questions about your personal and professional preparation for your PA program.
Group activity: In groups of five, candidates complete a 25-minute activity.
What we evaluate
During the interview process, we assess:
- Communication
- Self-reflection and self-awareness
- Empathy
- Teamwork
- Ethical responsibility to self and others
- Cultural awareness and sensitivity
- Resilience and adaptability
- Professional and personal preparation
Interview day information
A typical interview day includes multiple sessions that help you learn about the program and allows us to learn more about you.
Plan to dress in business attire for both online and in-person interviews, as you would for a professional job interview.
Expand the sections below for detailed information about your interview day.
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Online interviews
For invited candidates, your full schedule will arrive one week before your interview. It will include details and links for both Kira and Webex. Please follow the schedule to support a smooth experience for you and your group.
Kira interview stations
We use Kira for the MMI stations and the individual interview. Kira supports higher education admissions and offers a smooth applicant experience. Before your interview, you can explore the platform, try practice questions, and check your laptop, microphone and camera. The Kira Talent team offers 24/7 technical support.
Webex for group interview and online events
We use Webex for:
- Group activity
- Lunchtime mix and mingle
- Program overview
- Faculty and alumni panels
- Student support services presentation
The OHSU admissions team provides Webex support.
Webex tips
For interview purposes, Webex works best on a desktop or laptop. You can use a mobile device, but navigation may be more limited. You must have a working camera and microphone.
Useful Webex links:- Webex Help Center
- Review instructions for joining a meeting.
- Create or edit your People Insights Profile. Use the link titled “Create or Edit Your People Insights Profile-Meeting and Event Guests” to learn how to add a photo, phonetic name and pronouns. Note: Completing the People Insights Profile is optional. If you do choose to edit your profile, we will not refer to the current/past positions, bio or social media information, so those sections may be left blank.
- Use a virtual background
Meet program faculty and staff
Meet faculty and staff during a Q&A-style conversation.
Lunchtime mix and mingle
Connect with current students and learn about their path to PA school and their experience in the program. Sessions take place during the lunch break from 12:10 to 12:50 p.m. Your individual schedule will include the link for your session.
Candidate care packages
The admissions team will send you snacks, small gifts and program swag for interview day. Make sure your mailing address is current in CASPA and watch for your delivery.
Virtual tour
Take a virtual tour of OHSU. Be sure to visit our home base, the Robertson Life Sciences Building, and the Simulation Center.
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In-person interviews
In-person interviews take place in the Mark Richardson Interprofessional Simulation Center in the Robertson Life Sciences Building on the South Waterfront campus.
Schedule
Time Activity Description 7:45 a.m. Arrival and check-in A program representative will meet you at the main entrance on Moody Avenue and bring you inside. Follow the signs to check in. 8–9 a.m. Welcome meeting You’ll go to the second floor for a short welcome meeting. Learn about the program, student services and the day’s schedule. You’ll also get your room and group number. 9:15–11:30 a.m. Interviews You’ll move through a series of interviews in the Mark Richardson Interprofessional Simulation Center on the third floor. 11:45 a.m.–12:10 p.m. Meet program faculty and staff Join a Q&A conversation with faculty and staff. 12:15–1:15 p.m. Lunch with current students Have lunch with current students and hear about their experience in the program. 1:15-3 p.m. Group activity and campus tour Join your group interview on the second floor, then explore campus with a student guide. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes for the weather. 3-3:30 p.m. Wrap-up Review next steps and ask any final questions. Logistics
OHSU will provide an aerial tram ticket for your visit.
Nearby hotels:
How to prepare for your PA program interview
There’s more to preparing for a PA school interview than looking over your application. These four tips will help you feel prepared on interview day.
- Get to know us. Learn about our mission, curriculum and faculty. Bring questions that show you're thinking seriously about where you want to train.
- Reflect on your experiences. Think about your patient care hours, your path to the profession and the moments that shaped you. Be ready to talk about them clearly.
- Practice out loud. Rehearse with a friend, mentor or even in front of a mirror. Keep it natural, not scripted.
- Prepare for scenario-based stations. MMI stations don't have right or wrong answers. Practice thinking through situations and explaining your reasoning.
PA program interview FAQs
What do PA programs look for in interviews?
Programs typically evaluate candidates on communication, empathy, teamwork, ethical reasoning, cultural awareness and the ability to reflect honestly on their experiences. At OHSU, these are the core qualities we assess across all parts of our interview process.
What is an MMI interview?
A multiple mini-interview (MMI) uses a series of short, scenario-based stations rather than a single traditional interview. Each station presents a new prompt — which may involve role play, a task or a question — and evaluates how you think through a situation. MMIs are widely used by PA and medical programs because they assess noncognitive skills more consistently than traditional formats.
What questions are asked in a PA school interview?
This varies by program. At OHSU, our individual interview focuses on your personal and professional preparation for PA school, including your patient care experience and your path to the profession. MMI stations use scenarios rather than direct questions, so there are no standard answers to prepare.
Contact us
- Email: paprgm@ohsu.edu
- Call: 503-494-3633
