Entrance Interview

In the United States, the nursing "entrance interview" is a key component of the holistic admissions process. It is designed to assess your interpersonal skills, core values, and professional fit beyond your GPA and TEAS/HESI scores.

1. The Interview Process (BSN, MSN, DNP)

Most competitive programs utilize a multi-stage review where only top candidates are invited to interview.

• Common Formats:

  • Panel Interview: 2–3 faculty members or nursing deans ask questions about your motivations and resilience.

  • Multiple Mini Interview (MMI): A circuit of timed stations where you solve ethical dilemmas or teamwork puzzles.

  • Virtual/Asynchronous: Some schools require recorded video responses to pre-set prompts using platforms like Kira Talent.

  • Group Interviews: Candidates work together on a task while being observed for leadership and collaborative traits. 

2. Common Interview Themes for 2026

• Motivation: "Why nursing?" and "Why this specific program?".

• Behavioral Questions: Using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe past conflicts, mistakes, or high-pressure situations.

• Ethics and Advocacy: Questions about patient confidentiality, diversity, and advocating for a patient even when it contradicts an authority figure. 

3. Allied-Health Experience for Competitive Applicants

Having experience as a Medical Assistant (MA) or CNA is a significant advantage.

• Direct Patient Care: AdComs prioritize "active" clinical hours where you performed vitals or assisted in procedures. Competitive BSN applicants often report 200+ hours, while DNP/MSN applicants often have 1,000+ hours of professional clinical work.

• "Silver Lining" Stories: MAs can provide specific, authentic examples during interviews regarding difficult patient encounters or ethical dilemmas, which is more impactful than theoretical answers.

• Advantage in Professionalism: Prior experience demonstrates that you understand the healthcare hierarchy and can maintain professionalism under stress, reducing the school's perceived risk of you dropping out during clinical rotations.