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University of South Dakota, Sanford School of Medicine

Sioux Falls, SD

Interview Format

Format Type

Traditional

Number of Interviews

1

Delivery Method

Virtual

Currently, one on one virtual interviews. Please check for updates.

Interview Day Overview

Interview day will be virtual and consist of various presentations in the morning followed by one-on-one interviews in the afternoon. More information will be provided following interview invitation.

Interview Invite Timeline

Most schools begin sending invitations September–October on a rolling basis. Earlier is better — submit your primary early. Schools with rolling admissions fill seats throughout the cycle, so late applicants face a more competitive pool for fewer spots.

How to Prepare

Research This School

  • Read University of South Dakota, Sanford School of Medicine's mission statement — interviewers expect you to know it cold
  • Understand the curriculum style — is it problem-based learning (PBL), lecture-based, or hybrid?
  • Look up unique programs: dual-degree tracks, research opportunities, community health initiatives
  • Check recent news — faculty achievements, new clinical partnerships, or curriculum updates

Common Question Types

Motivation

"Why medicine?" · "Why University of South Dakota, Sanford School of Medicine?"

Behavioral

"Tell me about a time you..." (use STAR method)

Ethical Scenarios

End-of-life care, resource allocation, patient autonomy

Current Events

Healthcare policy, health equity, insurance access

Day-of Tips

  • Professional attire — business formal; err on the side of overdressed
  • Arrive 15 minutes early — give yourself buffer for parking and check-in
  • Prepare 2–3 thoughtful questions to ask your interviewers (not things on the website)
  • Send a thank-you note within 24 hours — a brief, genuine email to each interviewer

Interview FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I Competitive?

See how your MCAT, GPA, and background compare to admitted students at University of South Dakota, Sanford School of Medicine.

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