The AKU interview process can seem rather intimidating, and this guide provides a clear idea of what to expect on the day.

Overview

There are two interviews for every candidate, each lasting around 30-40 minutes. There could be a gap between both interviews. It is helpful to remember the name of your first interviewer, as it could be asked in the second interview. Some important advice: do not let the outcome of your first interview affect your conduct in the next one. Being demotivated or overconfident never helps, so be sure to enter the second interview with a fresh mindset.

Attire

Dress formally, but don’t go overboard. For boys, a dress shirt is recommended, even a suit if you’re comfortable with it. Shalwar kameez or presentable Western clothes work for girls. Whatever you’re wearing, you should carry it confidently.

Location

If you’re in Karachi, you’ll be called for the interview at the AKU campus, which includes a fun shuttle ride! For other candidates there are centers like the Pearl Continental Hotel in Lahore and Rawalpindi. As far as professionalism is concerned, it is highly important to reach the venue on time.

Setting

Pearl Continental has a hall with different stations, where multiple interviews are conducted simultaneously. In Karachi, you’re escorted to any of the campus buildings for your interview. After arriving, you’ll be asked to fill out a form with basic information such as family and sibling details. They’ll make photocopies of the form and deliver it to your interviewer.

Etiquettes

Your personality will be assessed based on your manners as well. Don't forget to knock the door before entering, offer Salaam or any greeting, and ask for permission before taking a seat. Be polite, humble, and respectful throughout the conversation. At the end, remember to thank your interviewer for their time.

Procedure

The interviewer might be writing notes as you’re speaking, try to avoid looking at the paper and getting distracted. Some of them might ask straightforward questions from a list; others conduct it more like an open-ended conversation. Your interviewer could either be very friendly or strict, it makes no difference on the result. The duration of the interview does not matter, people with 15 minute interviews have received admission, while those with 90 minute interviews have been rejected, and vice versa.

Talking Points
First and foremost, do not lie. If they proceed to cross-question, there is a high risk of being caught. It is worth mentioning that your interviewers do not have your Stage II forms, so they will question you based on what you talk about. You can carry the conversation in whatever direction you choose! Lead the topic towards your passion, hobbies and personal interests, they will sense your enthusiasm and genuinely enjoy interacting with you. It is best to avoid discussing religion or politics. For any controversial subject, try choosing the middle ground while describing your stance.

General Advice

It is normal to have a certain degree of anxiety associated with the interview. For some applicants, it is their first interview ever. If you feel under pressure, the following tips will keep you composed throughout the conversation! Take a deep breath before you start talking. Think before you speak, there is no rush to respond on the spot. If you're asked a question you do not have an immediate answer to, request them for a minute to consider it. The interviewer might cut you off while you're speaking, but do not let it unnerve you. It only indicates they have heard what they were looking for.

First impressions do count, hence your posture should be calm and confident. Sit straight, maintain eye contact, and act pleasant and natural, you’ll do great!

We hope this was a helpful picture of what the AKU interview looks like. This stage of the application does depend on luck to a good extent, hence do not let the outcome demoralize you. Candidates with a high number of extracurriculars have not always been accepted, while those with a few significant activities have made it. Trust your abilities and let your goals and motivation resonate through your words. We wish you all the best and hope you secure admission to the AKU MBBS programme! Reach out to us on Facebook and Instagram for any doubts and concerns.

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