How to prepare for a uni interview
Depending on your course, we might invite you to an interview after you apply. Our course pages will mention if your chosen subject uses interviews.
Interviews are our way of getting to know you: your interests, knowledge, experience and ambitions. They’re also a great chance for you to learn more about your course and your department, and decide if it’s the right fit for you.
Our interviews usually happen between November and April. If we want to interview you, we’ll get in touch directly to arrange a date and time, and to give you any other details.
Do your research
Passion for your subject is a key thing we look for. You’ll be spending years digging into it, after all. Reread the finer details on the course page, and figure out what makes it right for you – certain modules, perhaps, or a particular teaching style that appeals to you?
Looking again at your personal statement is a great starting point, as we’ll likely ask you to tell us more about what you wrote about.
Know what you’ve done
Talking about any experience you have is a reliable way to demonstrate your interest. It’s handy to make a mental note beforehand about any work experience or volunteering, and how they’ve prepared you to take your learning further.
Your examples don’t always have to relate directly to the subject. Broader skills like teamwork and project management may help you on your chosen course, so it’s good to be able to show your experience in them.
Ask away
Interviews are a two-way conversation.
Preparing a quick list of questions for the panel will help you confirm whether York is the right fit, and also shows how engaged you are with the subject.
Practice, practice, practice
If you can, talk through some potential questions and answers with a friend, family member or teacher. It’ll help get you in the zone, and make the interview itself feel familiar. Take your time with your answers, and don’t be afraid to ask for any questions again if needed.
There’s no such thing as a perfect interview. Think of it as a chat with someone else who loves what you love, and who wants to help you explore it further. The more you can get used to them, the more natural they’ll feel, and the more comfortable you’ll be.
Make a good impression
Check and recheck any info you’ve been given about the interview, and make sure you arrive on time. If you’re travelling far, it’s best to aim to arrive early, in case of any disruptions or delays on the way.
If your interview is an online video call, try to be in a quiet room with a good internet connection. Check that any links work as expected, and that there’s nothing too embarrassing in the background.
It’s best to wear something smart but comfortable, so you’re relaxed on the day. Remember to put your phone on silent, too, so it won’t go off mid-way through.
And that’s it. Relax, take a deep breath, and show them what you’re made of. You’ve got this.