Applying for Medicine or Health Sciences in the UK? You Might Be Interviewed by AI

The idea of students having to impress an AI rather than a human interviewer might sound like something out of a sci-fi film—but it’s already a reality. Across the UK, a growing number of universities have begun using artificial intelligence (AI) to assess applicants, particularly for competitive healthcare degrees like Medicine, Nursing, Midwifery, and Veterinary Medicine. As international applications surge, these AI-driven interviews are transforming how students are selected. For school counsellors, parents, and aspiring applicants, understanding this shift isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.

The Shift Towards AI-Led Interviews

Traditionally, admissions interviews involved live interaction with academic staff, either in person or online. However, oversubscription and logistical challenges have encouraged many institutions to adopt AI-supported platforms like SAMMI-Select and Kira Talent. These systems allow students to respond to structured, pre-recorded questions via video, at a time and place that suits them.

Institutions using these systems include:

University of Nottingham Physiotherapy, Midwifery

City St George’s, University of London Medicine, Allied Health (e.g. Occupational Therapy)

University of Liverpool Veterinary Medicine, Medicine (International)

University of Surrey Midwifery, Nursing, Vet Med, Allied Health

University of Hertfordshire Medicine (MBBS)

Robert Gordon University Nursing, Paramedic Science, Allied Health

Birmingham City University Nursing, Midwifery

University of South Wales Nursing (International applicants)

Benefits and Emerging Concerns

AI-led interviews offer several advantages. They reduce scheduling complexity and interviewer fatigue. Every candidate receives identical questions and time limits, which can mitigate some traditional forms of bias. For international applicants, the ability to complete interviews remotely, and without time zone constraints, is a logistical relief. Many platforms also include built-in accessibility features, such as customisable fonts, screen-readers, and practice modules.

However, these systems are not without limitations. There are several emerging challenges that educators and families should be aware of:

Language and Accent Sensitivity: AI systems may struggle to interpret regional accents, varied speech rhythms, or non-native expressions. This can disadvantage international candidates, even when their answers are insightful.
Non-Verbal Communication: Most systems are unable to analyze facial expressions, voice tone, or register subtle human cues like eye contact, body language, or emotional nuance—elements that can be vital in traditional interviews.
Digital Inequity: Students with limited access to quiet spaces, reliable internet, or capable computer devices may find themselves at a disadvantage. The interview format assumes a level of digital fluency and environmental stability that cannot be guaranteed across all applicants.
Transparency and Trust: Students and families often lack clarity about how responses are scored or what specific traits are being assessed. The absence of live interaction also removes the opportunity for clarification or relational connection with admissions staff.
Neurodiversity and Bias: Students who are naturally more reserved, or who are neurodivergent, may express themselves differently from what the AI “expects.” Without careful design and inclusive calibration, such systems risk embedding new biases even as they seek to eliminate old ones.

Why Practice is Now Essential

The shift to AI-assisted interviews demands a new kind of preparation. It is no longer enough to rehearse content; students must now learn to perform in a digital, often asynchronous, environment. This means: - Learning to communicate clearly to a webcam, even in the absence of live feedback. - Managing timed responses with poise and clarity. - Becoming familiar with technical requirements and platform layouts.

While some universities provide limited opportunities for practice, many do not. This is where FindU.io plays a role. FindU is a social innovation initiative supported by the Trinity Hall Catalyst Programme at the University of Cambridge, designed to democratise access to realistic AI-style interview practice.

The platform offers a free, accessible space for students from all backgrounds to simulate real interview conditions—complete with timed prompts, camera-based responses, and guided feedback. In doing so, it levels the playing field for students who may lack access to private coaching, professional preparation, or tech-literate support at home.

Final Reflections

The use of AI in university admissions—especially in healthcare disciplines—is here to stay. While these systems offer many operational advantages, they also introduce new layers of complexity and risk. For international students, in particular, success will depend not only on academic merit but also on their ability to navigate a digital selection process that may feel unfamiliar and impersonal.

For educators, parents, and counsellors, the message is clear: support for students must extend beyond grades and personal statements. It must include informed guidance on interview formats, access to practice tools, and critical awareness of how AI systems operate.