Ways on How to Prepare for a Graduate School Interview

Not all graduate schools conduct interviews but are prepared for the possibility especially if you are applying for a specific competitive program. Keep in mind that if you have been selected for an interview, then consider yourself lucky. Only applicants who made to the final list are asked to interviews as they are time-consuming and costly. 

The interview allows members of the department to meet you in person. Some applicants seem like a great match on paper but aren’t so in real life. The officials will see how you express yourself, manage stress or whether you have what it takes to succeed in school and in professional life. During the interview, you will be evaluating the program as officials are evaluating you.

Through the interview, you will get a chance to learn about the school, program, faculty, and students to determine if it's the right match for you. Here are ways to prepare you for a graduate school interview:

• Your Expectations: 

If you are called for an interview, be there even if you have to pay travel expenses. In an interview, you will get a chance to meet several faculty members and students. You will come across students of diverse backgrounds, faculty, and other applicants. When you will talk to people, it will highlight your confidence and listening skills but do not ‘dominate’ the conversation.  

The interviewers have read your application but don’t expect that they will know everything about you. Share your experiences, strengths and professional goals and state facts which you feel to present.

• Ways to Prepare Yourself for Graduate School: 

Understand the training procedures and explore the faculty research interest. Go through your interests, goals, and qualifications to ensure that you are a good match for the program. Be explicit and understand the perspective of faculty members, graduate program and research? Why should they accept you and will you be able to contribute significantly to the program? Research intelligent questions and rehearse potential answers.

• When Interviewed: 

Remember to convey your interest, motivation, and professionalism and gather information, if you feel that the graduate program is for you. In meeting with graduate students, ask them questions to learn what they think about the program and advisors. Express your best side because current graduate students may be in a position to help or hurt your application. Assume that you are evaluated on all occasions.

• Questions Asked During Interview Session:

Tell us about yourself?

Can you share your strengths and weaknesses?

What do you know about our program?

Why do you want to join this program?

If you're not accepted into graduate school, what are your plans?

Describe any research project you've worked on?

How will you be able to make a contribution to this field?

What are your hobbies?

What do you plan to specialize in?

What do you do in your spare time?

If you can't honestly tell your interviewers why you want to be admitted to their program that may be a sign that program wouldn't be a good fit for you.

Good Luck!