Ophthalmology ST1 interview
Ophthalmology ST1 selection uses scenario-based stations covering clinical reasoning, communication and ethics. A typical pattern, as described by recent candidates, is around five minutes of reading time followed by up to ten minutes with the interviewers, often pairing one clinical scenario with one communication scenario. The simulator reproduces that rhythm; always confirm the current format in the official applicant guidance for your round.
Format based on published 2026 recruitment guidance. Last checked: September 2026. This is general information, not advice about your application — always confirm details with the official source for your round.
Structure
The stations, reproduced with real timings.
The simulator keeps to these durations and moves you on when the clock runs out.
Clinical scenario
An eye casualty-style presentation with an ophthalmic focus, following reading time. Expect to explain a likely diagnosis and a safe initial plan.
Communication skills
Explaining a diagnosis and plan to a patient, addressing concerns about eye health, appearance and recovery, and checking understanding.
Ethical scenario
Consent, capacity, confidentiality and professionalism problems applied to eye care, such as fitness to drive with visual loss.
Weighting
Where the marks sit.
Practice is weighted the same way, so your time goes where it counts.
What candidates work on here
- Common eye casualty presentations: posterior vitreous detachment, retinal detachment, uveitis, acute glaucoma
- Systemic conditions that affect the eye: stroke and TIA, space-occupying lesions, thyroid disease
- Knowing your limits: early senior involvement, PALS awareness and clear safety-netting
Example questions
Original scenarios, written with clinicians.
Each question is mapped to the domains it assesses, so the summary you receive is specific rather than generic.
Clinical scenario
“A 33-year-old wakes unable to close the right eye, with drooping of the right side of the face and difficulty eating and drinking. Explain the likely diagnosis and your initial management, with attention to protecting the eye.”
A panel would listen for
A systematic approach, safe prioritisation and knowing when to escalate
Communication skills
“Explain a new diagnosis of retinal detachment to an anxious patient who drives for a living, including the urgency of treatment and what to expect.”
A panel would listen for
Empathy, honesty and checking the other person has understood
Ethical scenario
“A patient with significant visual field loss tells you they still drive. How do you respond?”
A panel would listen for
A systematic approach, safe prioritisation and knowing when to escalate
Practise this interview until it feels routine.
One free mock interview, no card required. Scores describe your practice performance only.
Start a free mock interview