TL;DR: UofT vMPI
- What it is: The University of Toronto (UofT) virtual Modified Personal Interview (vMPI) is an asynchronous, recorded video interview with 4 questions, each scored by a different rater, plus an ID verification station.
- Timing: 30 seconds to read each question, a 3-second countdown, then up to 5 minutes to record your answer. The full circuit is capped at 30 minutes.
- What it assesses: UofT recommends preparing with its four clusters: Professional, Communicator/Collaborator/Manager, Advocate and Scholar.
- Our top tip: Practise with UofT’s past Brief Personal Essay prompts under real vMPI timing. They’re practice material, not predicted questions.
- How to answer: Be honest, sound conversational, avoid clichés, and balance confidence with humility.
Last updated: October 2026. Format details are from the University of Toronto MD Program’s official admissions pages.
The UofT vMPI is stressing you out and all tips you find online seem the same? This is about to change.
If you’ve been invited to interview at the University of Toronto’s Temerty Faculty of Medicine, you’ll complete the virtual Modified Personal Interview (vMPI). Most guides repeat the same generic advice. This one covers the official format first, then a preparation strategy we recommend: practising with UofT’s own past Brief Personal Essay prompts.
Past essay prompts are not vMPI questions, and UofT does not say its interview questions are drawn from them. But they come from the same admissions program and the same four clusters of attributes, which makes them useful practice material. Below, we share a list of past prompts and show you how to turn them into interview practice.
What Is the UofT vMPI?
The virtual Modified Personal Interview (vMPI) is the interview used by the University of Toronto MD Program. It is completed asynchronously: you record video answers to questions instead of speaking with a live interviewer.
UofT vMPI Format and Timing
As of the 2025–2026 admissions cycle, the vMPI consists of four independent interviews, each assessed by a different, independent rater, plus an ID verification station. For each question, you have 30 seconds to read it, followed by a 3-second countdown, and then up to 5 minutes to record your response. The maximum time for the entire circuit is 30 minutes.
| Component | Detail |
|---|---|
| Format | Asynchronous, recorded video interview |
| Stations | 4 interview questions + 1 ID verification station |
| Time to read each question | 30 seconds, then a 3-second countdown |
| Response time | Up to 5 minutes per question |
| Total time | Maximum 30 minutes for the full circuit |
| Raters | Each interview is assessed by a different, independent rater |
| Who the raters are | People closely connected to UofT’s medical community, which may include physicians, medical students, residents, health professionals and community members |
| Interview invitations (2025–2026 cycle) | Approximately 750 applicants, selected based on file review scores |
Thirty seconds is not much time to plan, so practise with a timer and build the habit of structuring your answer quickly. UofT updates interview details each cycle, so always confirm the current format on its official Interviewing page.
What Does the UofT vMPI Assess?
UofT asks applicants to use its four clusters of attributes and the CanMEDS Roles as a frame of reference when preparing for the interview. The four clusters are based on the Royal College’s CanMEDS Framework:
- Professional: maturity, reliability, perseverance and responsibility
- Communicator/Collaborator/Manager: communication, collaboration, teamwork, time management and leadership
- Advocate: advocacy, community service and social responsibility
- Scholar: academic standing, achievements in leadership, research and social responsibility
UofT does not publish its interview questions or an official list of question types. The best preparation is to practise with many different prompts and connect each answer back to the four clusters.
How to Use Past UofT Essay Prompts to Prepare for the vMPI
This is the strategy we recommend: practise with UofT’s own past Brief Personal Essay prompts. It won’t predict your interview questions, but it gets you comfortable with the reflective, values-based prompts this admissions program writes.
Why Past Essay Prompts Are Useful Practice
UofT’s Brief Personal Essay prompts come from the same MD admissions program that runs the vMPI, and the program evaluates applicants using the same four clusters of attributes. Working through past prompts shows you the kinds of themes the program has asked about, such as feedback, learning, mentorship, communication and social responsibility.
How to Practise With Past Prompts
- Pick a prompt from the list below. Give yourself 30 seconds to read it and plan, just like the real vMPI.
- Record yourself answering for up to 5 minutes, without notes.
- Watch it back and ask which of the four clusters your answer demonstrates.
- Repeat with a new prompt, aiming for a clearer structure and a more natural delivery each time.
Past UofT Brief Personal Essay Prompts (Previous Cycles)
These prompts were used in previous UofT application cycles. They are listed here for interview practice only.
- The use of artificial intelligence is increasingly being used to replace or assist humans in our daily lives. The basis of artificial intelligence are the complex algorithms that drive the technology. In your opinion, what values, ethical and societal implications should be considered when developing such algorithms for assessing applicants to medical school?
- The Russian poet Marina Tsvetaeva said: “it isn’t that you need time to think, you need time to feel.” How does this statement connect with your future career in the field of medicine?
- The COVID-19 pandemic imposed obligatory changes in all our lives. What have you learned and how has this changed you as a person? Are there ways that you adapted that you would keep going forward?
- What is the purpose of a mentoring relationship? What are the 3 most important elements of a mentoring relationship? Discuss a mentoring situation that you experienced in relation to these qualities
- Privilege and oppression – what do these concepts mean to you?
- Describe what you view as the biggest benefits and the biggest challenges in how we communicate with one another since the introduction of social media?
- Dr. Danielle Ofri contends that “the single most powerful diagnostic tool remains the doctor/patient conversation, which can uncover the lion’s share of illnesses. But often the difference between what patients say and what doctors hear is vast”. Discuss and propose a solution.
- Provide an example of a time when undertaking critical analysis changed the way you considered an issue.
- Discuss the role of listening in cross-cultural communication to better understand the perspectives of people of different backgrounds.
- How have you used your resilience and coping mechanisms to make the most informed and rational decisions when faced with difficult circumstances?
- What type of feedback do you prefer to enhance your learning in and outside of academic environments? Why?
- “Reducing the economic gap may be impossible without also addressing the gap in empathy.” ― Daniel Goleman. Why is this the case? How might healthcare professionals advocate to help reduce these gaps?
- Uncomfortable conversations, although difficult and even hostile at times, are not necessarily unsafe ones. Do you agree or disagree? Discuss a time where you had to partake in such an uncomfortable conversation and how you handled it.
- There are many relationships that have an inherent power imbalance, such as teacher/student, physician/patient, or police officer/citizen. Describe a situation where you have experienced a power imbalance and what it taught you.
- Failure is an essential part of the learning process. Discuss a recent setback you experienced and overcame. What resources and/or tools helped you overcome this failure?
- Tell us about a time when you had to work with instructions/information that were in conflict with your core values.
- Connectors, according to Malcolm Gladwell, are the people in a community who know a large number of people and who are in the habit of making introductions that bring groups of people together for a common function or purpose. Gladwell attributes the social success of “Connectors” to the fact that “their ability to span many different worlds is a function of something intrinsic to their personality, some combination of curiosity, self-confidence, sociability, and energy.” Tell us about such a time in your life you were a connector. Did it come naturally to you, and if not, how did you overcome your hesitations?
- Presenting one’s opinion in the media can be dangerous. In today’s world, instant responses via mainline media and social media can be harsh, critical and hurtful. Social media shouting at each other seems to have become the norm, rather than a thoughtful, respectful conversation. As a leader of a social advocacy group, you have to make an announcement that you know will be unpopular with some members of your group and/or members of the larger community. How would you handle an ensuing social media storm?
- Describe an instance where you were obliged to take a course or other educational activity that you would not normally have taken. What did you learn from that experience?
- In Hope in the Dark, Rebecca Solnit writes, “Hope locates itself in the premises that we don’t know what will happen and that in the spaciousness of uncertainty is room to act… It’s the belief that what we do matters even though how and when it may matter, who and what it may impact, are not things we can know beforehand.” How can you relate Solnit’s quote to your life experiences?
- A recent UN News post states, “Unreliable and false information is spreading around the world to such an extent, that some commentators are now referring to the new avalanche of misinformation that’s accompanied the COVID-19 pandemic as a ‘disinfodemic’.” What would you do to address the increasing ‘disinfodemic’?
- Physician and author Abraham Verghese argues that the most important innovation to come in the medical profession in the next 10 years is human touch. Discuss.
- How does technology impact interactions and/or collaborative relationships among healthcare professionals?
- Describe an example of injustice that matters to you. How would a career in medicine allow you to better advocate in similar circumstances?
- What is your preferred style of learning? How has this impacted your educational development?
- Health care today combines both technical and personal aspects of care. Describe how you envision the balance of technology and compassion in physician‐patient relationships?
- Describe an experience you had working on a committee or group with members from diverse backgrounds. How was the leader of the group chosen? Is there an essential characteristic for leaders of such groups? Why?
- Please describe an experience, an event or an encounter with an individual or group which led to your directly intervening to help others or to taking some action.
- Describe someone who you have interacted with who you feel is a talented teacher. What characteristics does this person embody and how have you tried to adopt these qualities through your own actions?
Current UofT Essay Prompts (2026–2027 Cycle)
For the 2026–2027 cycle, UofT requires two Brief Personal Essays of 250 words or less each, plus an Autobiographical Sketch (ABS) Statement of 500 words or less. The two essay prompts are:
- “Describe a time when you received feedback that stands out in your memory. Why did it stand out from other feedback experiences? What did you do with the feedback and how did it influence your use of feedback, if at all?”
- “Describe a meaningful learning experience that occurred outside of a formal educational context (e.g., community service, employment, or extracurricular setting).”
See UofT’s Non-Academic Requirements page for full details.
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How to Answer UofT vMPI Questions: 4 Recommendations
1. Be Honest in Scenario-Based Questions
Takeaway: Give the answer you would actually act on, and explain your reasoning, instead of the answer you think sounds best.
Emphasizing Authenticity
In the UofT vMPI, you may be asked how you would handle a scenario or what you learned from an experience. Avoid fabricating or idealizing your responses. An answer that sounds rehearsed or too perfect is less convincing than a thoughtful, realistic one.
Realistic Responses
When confronted with a scenario, such as dealing with a friend engaged in ethically questionable behavior, it’s important to respond realistically. For instance, while it might seem admirable to say you would report a friend in certain scenarios, if your honest reaction would be to handle it personally, then that’s the response to share. This approach reflects the kind of integrity and authenticity valued in the medical profession.
2. Use a Conversational Tone
Takeaway: Speak to the camera as if you’re having a thoughtful discussion with a peer, not reading a script.
Engagement Over Monotony
A common pitfall in interviews, including the UofT vMPI, is delivering responses in a monotonous, robotic manner. Even though this is not a traditional panel interview, and there is less face-to-face interaction than an MMI, you should still be conversational. To stand out, adopt a conversational tone. This doesn’t mean being informal, but rather engaging the interviewer as if you’re having a thoughtful discussion with a peer. Think back to your university courses when you certainly paid more attention during seminar discussions than lectures. This is because the seminar discussions were more conversational.
Practice Makes Perfect
To develop a more conversational style, practice responding to typical interview questions and record yourself. Aim for each successive attempt to be more relaxed and natural. This technique is particularly effective in preparing for recorded interviews like the UofT vMPI.
3. Avoid Cliché Answers
Takeaway: Replace generic lines like “I want to help people” with specific experiences only you can describe.
Be Unique, Be Memorable
Raters hear many similar answers. Distinguish yourself by avoiding overused phrases and predictable answers. For instance, when discussing your motivation for pursuing medicine, delve beyond the generic “I want to help people.” Share unique experiences or perspectives that genuinely reflect your passion.
Differentiate Your Responses
In questions about personal weaknesses or favorite books, steer clear of standard answers. Offer an authentic weakness you’re working to improve, or talk about a non-medical book that genuinely captivated you. This authenticity makes your interview memorable and shows depth in your character.
4. Balance Confidence With Humility
Takeaway: Show what you bring while acknowledging how much you still have to learn.
Humility is Key
Confidence matters, but overconfidence can work against you in any medical school interview, including the vMPI. Recognize that while you have strengths, you are one of many highly qualified candidates.
Responding with Humility
When asked why you should be chosen or if you’re certain about your suitability for the medical profession, focus on your dedication to continual learning and growth, rather than claiming superiority over other candidates. This demonstrates a mature understanding of the profession and makes you a more appealing candidate.
Conclusion: Navigating the UofT vMPI With Insight and Authenticity
As we conclude our exploration of the nuances of the virtual modified personal interview (vMPI) at the University of Toronto’s Temerty Faculty of Medicine, it’s clear that success in this innovative interview format hinges on more than just academic prowess. It demands a blend of authenticity, reflective thinking, conversational engagement, and humility.
The journey to acing the UofT vMPI is unique for each individual. By embracing the unconventional strategy of revisiting old essay questions, you can gain a deeper understanding of the UofT’s expectations.
Moreover, your approach to the interview scenarios should be grounded in honesty and realism. Adopting a conversational tone, avoiding clichéd responses, and balancing confidence with humility will further distinguish you in the eyes of the interviewers. We do recommend you receive high-yield interview coaching prior to the UofT vMPI, so don’t hesitate to reach out to any of our experienced AcceptedTogether medicine consultants by clicking here. Our consultant can work with you to help you figure out how to perform your best on the day of the UofT MPI. Good luck!
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UofT vMPI FAQ
Is the UofT vMPI live or recorded?
Recorded. The vMPI is completed asynchronously: you record a video response to each question rather than speaking with a live interviewer.
How much time do you get to prepare for each vMPI question?
You get 30 seconds to read each question, followed by a 3-second countdown. You then have up to 5 minutes to record your response.
How many stations are in the UofT vMPI?
As of the 2025–2026 cycle, there are four independent interviews, each assessed by a different rater, plus an ID verification station. The maximum time for the full circuit is 30 minutes.
Who scores the UofT vMPI?
According to UofT, raters are closely connected to its medical community and may include physicians, medical students, residents, health professionals and community members.
What does the UofT vMPI assess?
UofT recommends using its four clusters of attributes (Professional; Communicator/Collaborator/Manager; Advocate; Scholar) and the CanMEDS Roles as a frame of reference when preparing for the interview.
Can you see UofT vMPI questions in advance?
No. Each question appears on screen during the interview, and you have 30 seconds to read it before recording.
Are past UofT essay prompts the same as vMPI questions?
No. UofT does not say its interview questions are drawn from past essay prompts. We recommend them as practice material because they come from the same admissions program and reflect the themes it has asked applicants about.
