What to check before a recorded MMI
By Videoath · Updated
Start with your invitation. Rules on notes, headphones, visible hands, timing and ending a response early come from your assessment's instructions, and they can differ from other assessments you've done. Then test your camera, microphone and connection, complete any practice questions you're offered, and make sure your booking is actually finished.
Provider information checked October 18, 2026.
What the provider says in general
Acuity says each program sets up its video interviews differently, and some programs don't share format details until you begin. It recommends a dedicated interview space and checking your audio, camera and internet connection beforehand. A system check runs automatically at the start, and you can complete two practice questions before the real interview. See Acuity's preparation guidance.
Acuity's interview dates page gave a tentative description of the Queen's and Ottawa early-phase sitting as about 75 minutes, with eight stations and a rest partway through. These descriptions are general. Your own instructions are what apply to you.
Questions to answer from your invitation
| Question | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Are written notes allowed? | Some assessments prohibit them, even if others you've taken allowed them |
| Can I use headphones or earbuds? | If not, you'll need working speakers |
| Must my hands stay visible? | This affects how you arrange your camera and desk |
| Does recording start when the prompt appears, or after a reading period? | This changes how you use thinking time |
| Can I end a response before time runs out? | This affects how you pace your answer |
| Which language and ID do I need? | Language-stream and ID problems are avoidable |
| What happens if my connection drops? | Know where to get support before you need it |
If your instructions don't answer one of these, ask the provider or school using the contact details in your instructions. Don't rely on what someone remembers from a different assessment.
Set up your space
Record a two-minute test answer in the exact spot you'll use, then watch it. Check that your face is clearly visible and, if required, your hands too. On a small desk, try raising the laptop on a stack of books, sitting a little further back, or using an external webcam. Make sure you can still read the screen comfortably.
If headphones aren't allowed, play a video through your device's speakers at the volume you'd need. If you have no working speakers, sort that out well before the day. If your home is noisy, ask the provider about earplugs instead of guessing.
Make sure your booking is finished
Some booking processes have more than one step, such as choosing a date and then registering officially. Check each email for what it asks you to do and by when. Convert every deadline to your local time and write down both times. Keep your confirmation emails. If an email you're expecting hasn't arrived, contact the provider or school before the deadline passes.
If you miss a deadline, contact them anyway and explain what happened. Forum replies can't tell you whether an exception is possible.
Use the official practice questions
They show you the platform, the timing and how recording starts. They aren't a preview of the content you'll be asked about. Going through them once under real conditions is a useful final rehearsal. The recorded vs live guide covers what to do with thinking time once you know how recording starts.
Quick answers
What should I wear? Check your invitation first and follow any dress or appearance instruction it gives. If it doesn't mention one, choose something you'd wear to a professional meeting and won't fidget with.
I'll be in a different time zone. Sittings are listed in a specific time zone. Convert carefully and set two reminders.
Can I share what was in the practice questions? Before sharing any assessment content, check what you agreed to when you registered.
With your setup sorted, answer a public MMI practice question in the same spot and position you'll use on the day.