Accommodations FAQ

Q: What is Memorial University’s Faculty of Medicine’s commitment to accessibility in the admissions process?

A: Memorial University’s Faculty of Medicine is dedicated to providing an inclusive learning environment, starting with the admissions process. Each year, several candidates require formal disability accommodations for interviews, and the university is committed to supporting applicants in accordance with the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Code and Memorial’s Accessibility Policy for Students with Disabilities.

Q: When do the interviews take place and how are they conducted?

A: Interviews generally occur in late January or early February. Please refer to the official timelines for exact dates.

Memorial University utilizes the Kira Talent virtual platform to complete all interviews. You can find information at Kira Talent’s website. Navigate to the “For Applicants” section via the drop-down menu. There is an article on Accessibility and Additional Assistance available here.

Q: How should I request accommodations for the medical school interview?

A: To request accommodations, contact Accessibility Services (Blundon Centre) at blundon@mun.ca or 709-864-2156, not Kira Talent or the Admissions Office. 

Q: When should I reach out for accommodations?

A: As soon as you are committed to applying to the MD program or any time after your application is submitted and up to November 30 in any application year. The process can take time, so it is important to contact Accessibility Services (Blundon Centre) early. You can start the process before you receive any information regarding an interview. It is recommended to contact them in anticipation of an interview since interview notifications may arrive only 3 weeks before the interview. Do not send medical documentation for accommodations to the Admissions Office. Please see accessibility services for more details.

Q: I am not a student of Memorial University; am I able to access accommodation support if I am not a current registered student or recent graduate?

A: Yes. You are able to receive accommodations through the same process as registered students. When you contact the Blundon Centre, do not use the “Register with our Office” button on their website unless you are a current Memorial University student. Instead, reach out via email or phone (blundon@mun.ca, or 709-864-2156). They are aware that some applicants applying to medical school at Memorial Univeristy are not registered students and are happy to assist you through the accommodations process.

Q: Is there a deadline to request accommodations for my medical school interview?

A: Yes. Appointments for accommodations at the Blundon Centre need to be made by applicants by November 30 in any application cycle. Appointments made after this date are permitted, and will be completed as time and resources permit. If the Admissions Office does not receive a Letter of Accommodations from the Blundon Centre on your behalf prior to interviews, accommodations for interviews cannot be provided.

Q: Does requesting accommodations guarantee an interview?

A: No, requesting accommodations does not guarantee an interview. The accommodations process is separate from the application process, and the Admissions Office will only become aware of your request once you receive an interview offer.

Q: What are some examples of accommodations for virtual interviews?

A: Accommodations may include (but are not limited to):

• Using a word processor to take notes;
• Extra time to respond to questions;
• Having questions displayed on the screen during the interview

Q: How do I request an alternate accommodation?

A: If you have a request that is not listed, contact the Admissions Office at:

• Email: munmed@mun.ca
• Phone: 709-864-6328

Q: When will I receive my Letter of Accommodation?

A: Accessibility Services will work with you to determine the necessary accommodations and provide an official Letter of Accommodation to the Admissions Office at least two weeks before the interview.

Q: Can I contact the Admissions Office about disability accommodations?

A: The Admissions Office can only address formal disability accommodations. All questions regarding disability accommodations should be directed to Accessibility Services. For accommodations based on other human rights grounds, contact the Admissions Office directly at munmed@mun.ca or 709-864-6328 at least 6 weeks before the interview.

Q: What happens to my Letter of Accommodation after the interview process?

A: After the application cycle ends, your Letter of Accommodation will be deleted, it is not retained by the Admissions Office. If you apply again in a future cycle, you must repeat the accommodation request process.

Q: Can I use the same Letter of Accommodation for academic accommodations if accepted?

A: No, the Letter of Accommodation for the interview process does not cover academic accommodations. If accepted into the program, you will need to meet with Accessibility Services to request accommodations for your medical studies.