What questions are usually asked in the university interview? Some university courses require student candidates to attend an interview before they are allocated a place. If you’re not familiar with the interview process and technique, this can be a daunting experience, especially for a place at your preferred college in Ilford at stake.
There are different reasons why a student may be required to attend an interview. It could just be the normal practice for a particular course, accountancy and finance for example, or that your application is in some way unusual. Sometimes mature students who don’t have the usual formal qualifications are asked to attend an interview.
It’s very important that you attend an interview at Mont Rose College if you are offered one because you won’t be offered a place on the course of your choice if you just don’t bother to turn up. If there are good reasons why you cannot attend, contact the university immediately and explain your reasons so that an alternative date can be arranged.
Prepare yourself for the university interview
Make sure you prepare yourself well in advance and be prepared for standard questions such as, “Why do you want to study this particular subject?” and “Why have you chosen this university?” It can be helpful to read through your original application form to refresh your memory the night before your interview.
On the day, allow yourself plenty of time to travel to the university campus and to find the location for your interview. Turning up late does not create a good impression. First impressions count, so choose your dress carefully; aim to look smart and well-groomed.
What to expect during your interview
If the accounting and finance course you are applying for is very competitive with limited places, the interview will focus mainly on how suitable you are academically. If your circumstances or background are unusual or you don’t have the expected qualifications, the interview will be used to assess your suitability.
As well as interviews, courses like nursing, midwifery, teaching, and other vocational subjects have selection days during which candidates’ suitability and motivation are assessed, together with criminal record checks and even screening to spot fraudulent applications.
Final thoughts
Although the purpose of the interview is primarily for the university interview to learn more about you, why not use it as an opportunity to ask questions about what the university has to offer you? This could be especially valuable if you have offers from several universities and haven’t made up your mind which one to go for.
