Updated February 20, 2021
Updated February 20, 2021
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How to Prepare For a University Admission Interview main image
Have you been invited to attend a university admission interview, and are now feeling nervous and wondering how to prepare? Read our top 10 tips for university interview success…
Consider the type of interview you can expect
University admissions interviews are generally either evaluative or informative. Evaluative interviews can be expected in order to gain admission to particularly prestigious universities such as Oxbridge. In this instance, your performance in the interview will be considered when the university admissions officers decide whether to offer you a place. In an informative interview, you have the opportunity to find out more about the university, while the university also finds out more about you. In this case, the university admissions officers may be just as keen to impress you, as you are to impress them, because they want you to choose their institution. Of course, your university interview may include both evaluative and informative elements.
Think about how you can stand out
University admissions interviewers are likely to be meeting a large number of candidates, so you need to think about how you can stand out and leave a good impression. When interviewers ask you to tell them about yourself (a question that is likely to come up, in some form), try to respond with something memorable. This is your chance to convey your passion for your chosen subject, your future ambitions, and the qualities you possess that will ensure your academic success.
Re-read your personal statement
The tutors interviewing are also likely to refer to things you’ve mentioned in your personal statement or application essay, whether it’s about a certain hobby or a claim about one of your achievements. (This is one reason why it’s very important to be honest!) Have another look at what you wrote and consider any related questions that might come up in the interview, such as questions about particular books you’ve referred to, or areas of academic interest.
Re-read the course information
It’s also a good idea to take a look back at the university’s prospectus or official website for full information on how the course is structured, what the entry requirements are and what optional modules are offered, amongst other guidance. This will help you show that you’ve researched the course thoroughly, and could also help you form some useful questions to ask the admissions officers – there is usually an opportunity to do this, even in a performative interview. Make sure the questions you ask haven’t already been covered in the published course information.
Plan some answers to common university interview questions
As well as ‘tell me about yourself’, it’s highly likely that you’ll be asked why you want to study this particular course at this particular university. If you’re studying abroad, your interviewer may also be interested in asking why you want to study in the particular country, and what attracted you to studying abroad. You should show your interviewer that you’re enthusiastic about your subject and very keen on their university; be as specific as you can.
However, while some forward planning is recommended, try not to overdo it! Allow your answers to flow naturally, rather than sounding too rehearsed. This is certainly easier said than done, but try to relax during the interview and be yourself.
Know your subject
You should be well-prepared to explain to your interviewer why you’re interested in your chosen subject, and outline your motivations for enrolling in your chosen course. In addition, you can demonstrate your interest by reading up on the latest news, research and developments in the field. You may be asked specifically about some of these issues, or you may simply be able to draw on them as examples.
Practice with a friend
If this is your first proper interview or you’re simply very nervous, it might help to sit down with a friend or family member and do a practice run of the most common university interview questions. This should highlight any questions you need to go back to and think about again, or if you have a habit of saying ‘um’ too much!
Dress appropriately
Although university admission interviews are often fairly informal, it is much better to be dressed up than dressed down! Wear clothes you would wear for a formal job interview – something smart and comfortable, and you’ll make a good first impression.
Arrive early
If you’re attending an admissions interview in person (rather than via Skype, for example), make sure you know exactly where you’re going and how long it takes to get there, and allow plenty of time. You should aim to arrive around 10-15 minutes early.
Take a deep breath, and smile!
This is definitely easier said than done, but try not to worry too much. Remember that the university interview is usually not considered on its own when it comes to accepting you as a student. And also remember that the admissions officers have clearly been impressed with you so far to offer you an interview, so they’re seriously considering offering you a place. Even if you’re feeling terrified on the inside, force yourself to smile – it will make you feel better, and help to show your interviewers that you’re excited about the opportunity.
This article was originally published in January 2016
.
It was last updated in February 2021
The former Assistant Editor of TopUniversities.com, Sabrina wrote and edited articles to guide students from around the world on a wide range of topics. She has a bachelor's degree in English Literature and Creative Writing from Aberystwyth University and grew up in Staffordshire, UK.
Hey my name is hamza khan I live in qatar I want to study in a good university of Canada and want to select the BBA programing department and my 12 class percentage is 55 I don't know the procedure can you help me?
Hi my name is Joaquim Camunto I live in Angola but I studied in South Africa obtaining a National Diploma but i want continue my studies and am looking for free scholarship to continue my studies could i get some help please?
Dear All,
I'm Murali from India.I would like to do my PhD in Canada.I had done My B Tech with Mechanical Engineering(2010 Passed out) & I had done my M.Tech in Thermal Engineering (2013 Passed out)Specialization,2 years of Industrial Experience in OEM of Steam Turbines(2013-2015).And 3 years of Teaching Experience (2015-To till date).Please do the needful.
Hello, I am Rajbir from India .I want to study in Canada for phd chemistry.I had done M.Sc CHEMISTRY with 68% .Please guide me for admission .I have two years teaching experience also . I need your help . I will be very thankful to you. PLEASE !!! REPLY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
How to Prepare For a University Admission Interview
By Sabrina Collier
Updated February 20, 2021 Updated February 20, 2021Have you been invited to attend a university admission interview, and are now feeling nervous and wondering how to prepare? Read our top 10 tips for university interview success…
Consider the type of interview you can expect
University admissions interviews are generally either evaluative or informative. Evaluative interviews can be expected in order to gain admission to particularly prestigious universities such as Oxbridge. In this instance, your performance in the interview will be considered when the university admissions officers decide whether to offer you a place. In an informative interview, you have the opportunity to find out more about the university, while the university also finds out more about you. In this case, the university admissions officers may be just as keen to impress you, as you are to impress them, because they want you to choose their institution. Of course, your university interview may include both evaluative and informative elements.
Think about how you can stand out
University admissions interviewers are likely to be meeting a large number of candidates, so you need to think about how you can stand out and leave a good impression. When interviewers ask you to tell them about yourself (a question that is likely to come up, in some form), try to respond with something memorable. This is your chance to convey your passion for your chosen subject, your future ambitions, and the qualities you possess that will ensure your academic success.
Re-read your personal statement
The tutors interviewing are also likely to refer to things you’ve mentioned in your personal statement or application essay, whether it’s about a certain hobby or a claim about one of your achievements. (This is one reason why it’s very important to be honest!) Have another look at what you wrote and consider any related questions that might come up in the interview, such as questions about particular books you’ve referred to, or areas of academic interest.
Re-read the course information
It’s also a good idea to take a look back at the university’s prospectus or official website for full information on how the course is structured, what the entry requirements are and what optional modules are offered, amongst other guidance. This will help you show that you’ve researched the course thoroughly, and could also help you form some useful questions to ask the admissions officers – there is usually an opportunity to do this, even in a performative interview. Make sure the questions you ask haven’t already been covered in the published course information.
Plan some answers to common university interview questions
As well as ‘tell me about yourself’, it’s highly likely that you’ll be asked why you want to study this particular course at this particular university. If you’re studying abroad, your interviewer may also be interested in asking why you want to study in the particular country, and what attracted you to studying abroad. You should show your interviewer that you’re enthusiastic about your subject and very keen on their university; be as specific as you can.
However, while some forward planning is recommended, try not to overdo it! Allow your answers to flow naturally, rather than sounding too rehearsed. This is certainly easier said than done, but try to relax during the interview and be yourself.
Know your subject
You should be well-prepared to explain to your interviewer why you’re interested in your chosen subject, and outline your motivations for enrolling in your chosen course. In addition, you can demonstrate your interest by reading up on the latest news, research and developments in the field. You may be asked specifically about some of these issues, or you may simply be able to draw on them as examples.
Practice with a friend
If this is your first proper interview or you’re simply very nervous, it might help to sit down with a friend or family member and do a practice run of the most common university interview questions. This should highlight any questions you need to go back to and think about again, or if you have a habit of saying ‘um’ too much!
Dress appropriately
Although university admission interviews are often fairly informal, it is much better to be dressed up than dressed down! Wear clothes you would wear for a formal job interview – something smart and comfortable, and you’ll make a good first impression.
Arrive early
If you’re attending an admissions interview in person (rather than via Skype, for example), make sure you know exactly where you’re going and how long it takes to get there, and allow plenty of time. You should aim to arrive around 10-15 minutes early.
Take a deep breath, and smile!
This is definitely easier said than done, but try not to worry too much. Remember that the university interview is usually not considered on its own when it comes to accepting you as a student. And also remember that the admissions officers have clearly been impressed with you so far to offer you an interview, so they’re seriously considering offering you a place. Even if you’re feeling terrified on the inside, force yourself to smile – it will make you feel better, and help to show your interviewers that you’re excited about the opportunity.
This article was originally published in January 2016 . It was last updated in February 2021
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The former Assistant Editor of TopUniversities.com, Sabrina wrote and edited articles to guide students from around the world on a wide range of topics. She has a bachelor's degree in English Literature and Creative Writing from Aberystwyth University and grew up in Staffordshire, UK.
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Mon, 02/08/2016 - 14:34
Hey my name is hamza khan I
Hey my name is hamza khan I live in qatar I want to study in a good university of Canada and want to select the BBA programing department and my 12 class percentage is 55 I don't know the procedure can you help me?
In reply to Hey my name is hamza khan I by hamza692230
Mon, 02/08/2016 - 16:31
Hi Hamza, please take a look
Hi Hamza, please take a look at our article on the top universities in Canada and our complete guide on how to study abroad in Canada. Hope this helps!
Sun, 12/25/2016 - 20:45
Hi my name is Joaquim Camunto
Hi my name is Joaquim Camunto I live in Angola but I studied in South Africa obtaining a National Diploma but i want continue my studies and am looking for free scholarship to continue my studies could i get some help please?
Sat, 07/21/2018 - 11:58
Dear All,
Dear All,
I'm Murali from India.I would like to do my PhD in Canada.I had done My B Tech with Mechanical Engineering(2010 Passed out) & I had done my M.Tech in Thermal Engineering (2013 Passed out)Specialization,2 years of Industrial Experience in OEM of Steam Turbines(2013-2015).And 3 years of Teaching Experience (2015-To till date).Please do the needful.
In reply to Dear All, by Rbv Murali
Mon, 07/23/2018 - 10:35
Hello, I've replied to your
Hello, I've replied to your comment here. :)
Fri, 08/17/2018 - 13:26
Hello, I am Rajbir from India
Hello, I am Rajbir from India .I want to study in Canada for phd chemistry.I had done M.Sc CHEMISTRY with 68% .Please guide me for admission .I have two years teaching experience also . I need your help . I will be very thankful to you. PLEASE !!! REPLY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
In reply to Hello, I am Rajbir from India by [email protected]…
Fri, 08/17/2018 - 13:47
Hi Rajbir, please take a look
Hi Rajbir, please take a look at our article on how to study a PhD in Canada. To help you to choose a university, you could check our latest rankings by subject for chemistry, with the results narrowed down to show only Canadian universities.
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