How to prepare for university interviews
Start early, practise aloud with real questions, learn your subject and application inside out, and treat the interview like an academic conversation — not an exam. Use mock interviews, prepare a short personal pitch, and plan logistics so you arrive calm and ready.
Preparation Checklist
- Know your application: reread your personal statement, CV, and any submitted work so you can explain and expand on anything you wrote clearly and confidently.
- Master the basics of your subject: review core concepts and recent developments relevant to your course; interviewers often probe your thinking, not just recall.
- Prepare a 60–90 second pitch that explains who you are, why this subject, and what you’ve done to prepare; make it natural, not rehearsed.
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Practise and technique
- Do mock interviews with a teacher, friend, or mentor and record them if possible. Focus on speaking clearly, structuring answers, and thinking aloud when solving problems. Academic interviews reward reasoning shown step by step rather than just the final answer.
- Work on common question types: motivation (Why this course?); evidence of interest (projects, reading, work experience); problem-solving or technical questions; ethical or current-issue prompts; and behavioural questions about teamwork and resilience. Practise concise examples with a clear situation, action, and outcome.
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What to expect and how to respond
- Treat evaluative interviews as conversations: ask clarifying questions, explain your thought process, and don’t be afraid to say “I’m not sure, but I would consider…” — interviewers value intellectual curiosity and honesty.
- If given a problem, talk through it: outline assumptions, try simple cases, and build complexity. This shows method and adaptability even if you don’t reach a perfect solution.
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Practical day-of tips
- Plan logistics: know the time, format (in-person, online), and who you’ll meet; test tech early for virtual interviews. Arrive 10–15 minutes early to settle nerves.
- Dress smart and comfortable; aim for neat, professional attire that helps you feel confident.
- Bring notes (if allowed) and a copy of your application; use them only as prompts, not scripts.
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After the interview
- Send a brief thank-you email if contact details are provided; keep it short and professional.
- Reflect on performance: note questions you found hard and gaps to improve for future interviews. Use feedback to refine answers and practice.
Key reminders: start early, practise thinking aloud, know your application and subject, and treat the interview as an academic discussion rather than a performance. These approaches consistently help applicants perform more confidently and clearly.
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