University Interviews

Don't forget, if you need any additional help with university interviews or any aspect of applying to university, contact the Passport Team on 01642 384231 or email passport@tees.ac.uk

Once you have applied to university, you may be invited for interview.

It's important to realise universities differ on if they include interviews as part of selection and the type of interview they conduct. Some interviews are informal whereas others may be a formal structured programme and can include other applicants (the group interview).

Normally, the interviewer will be a member of the lecturing team but the panel could include staff from professional organisations.

Many people are nervous but remember you've been invited to interview because the university is interested in finding out more about you. So you've already made a good start. The following sections will help you get the most out of your university interview.

Preparing for the interview

During your interview you will be expected to demonstrate your understanding of the skills required by the university and your chosen profession (if relevant), so it's important to prepare your thoughts.

Re-read the information in the prospectus and course brochures to improve your understanding of the subject and do some more research on your chosen profession.

You should also re-read your personal statement. This could be used to ask questions. If you're unsure of how to dress, it's worth contacting the university beforehand to find out how formal the interview will be.

Think about the following points before the day:

why you have chosen the course and the aspects that interest you
the positive qualities you can bring to the course and its associated profession such as enthusiasm, communication skills and organisation skills
if you attended any open days or discovery days and what you got out of your visit
what you understand about the course and the industry the course relates to
what you enjoy about your current studies.

Getting to the interview

If you are invited for interview, confirm you will attend. Give yourself plenty of time to get there - plan your journey in advance making all travel arrangements well before the day (don't forget, parking is not always available on campus so you may need extra time if you are driving). If you are unfamiliar with the campus, report to reception upon arrival and ask for directions.

Make sure you bring with you:

travelling instructions
any correspondence about the interview, including details of when, where and who to report to plus university contact details in case there are any unforeseen circumstances on the way
additional information requested by the university - this may be checked by admissions tutors and contribute to your interview.

During the interview

Admissions tutors are looking for personable, enthusiastic people who are committed to the course, so your university interview is a great opportunity to shine.

Many applicants make the mistake of thinking the more they talk during the interview, the better they will come across. It is important to contribute to discussions but don't feel you have to control the conversation. In group interviews, listening skills are just as valuable as speaking. It's equally important not to give one word answers.

Asking questions is a good way of showing interest, but if these have already been answered, it's good to say something like ‘I was going to ask about... but you have already answered that, thank you'.

Useful tips

listen carefully to the questions you are being asked
if you don't understand the question, ask the interviewer to repeat it
if you get the opportunity give examples of the efforts you have made to research the subject, such as your membership of Passport, your participation in discovery days and open days and any relevant work experience
don't lie, you will be found out
stay positive - even if the unexpected happens on the way to the university, try and remain composed and positive for the interview
be yourself.