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University Interviews: 10 Common Questions and Tips for Doing Well

written by
Natasha Machado
11/4/2024
Read in
5 min
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University admission interviews are a crucial stage in the selection process, most of the time, the questions seek to identify whether the student has the profile desired by the institution. Be easy separated the 10 most common questions in these interviews and valuable tips for you to prepare and highlight your personality in an authentic and memorable way. Check it out!

1. Tell me a little about yourself

This question may seem simple, but summarizing your life in a few sentences is a challenge. Avoid common places like “I'm friendly” or “I'm dedicated”. Instead, focus on highlighting your passions, manias, hobbies, and outstanding traits that make you unique. Use concrete examples and be sincere.

Tip: Think of curious or funny stories that reveal your essence in a genuine and captivating way.

2. Why are you interested in this university?

When answering, show that you have thoroughly researched the institution and explain how it aligns with your academic and professional objectives. Mention specific aspects that attracted you, such as renowned professors, research groups, innovative programs, or internship opportunities. Avoid answers that are generic or based solely on university prestige.

Tip: Show enthusiasm and intellectual curiosity when talking about how the university can contribute to your growth.

3. What will you bring differently to the university?

This is your chance to show how you can contribute positively to the campus community. Think of unique skills, experiences, and perspectives that add diversity and enrich the academic environment, be specific and give concrete examples.

Tip: Highlight extracurricular activities, volunteer projects, or special talents that may benefit the university.

4. Who are the people who influenced you the most?

When choosing your “heroes” or references, explain in a concrete way how they impact your life and shaped your values and attitudes, ranging from historical figures to family members, teachers or close mentors. The important thing is to demonstrate how these influences made you grow and develop.

Tip: Be authentic and choose people who truly inspire you, rather than obvious options to impress the interviewer.

5. How can you contribute to the campus community?

Here, you must show how your interests and abilities can enrich campus life beyond the classroom. Think about how you would get involved in clubs, student organizations, cultural events, or volunteer initiatives. Be specific and show enthusiasm to make a difference.

Tip: Research the engagement opportunities offered by the university and mention some that interest you.

6. Tell me a challenge that you overcame

The purpose of this question is to assess your ability to deal with problems and adversities. Choose a significant example of an academic, professional, or personal challenge that you faced and explain how you overcame it. Highlight the skills and learning acquired in the process.

Tip: Be honest and show how this experience made you a more resilient person prepared for future obstacles.

7. What do you do in your spare time?

This question seeks to know your interests and passions beyond studying. Avoid vague answers such as “relax” or “social networks”. Instead, talk about hobbies, physical activities, creative projects, or any other productive occupation that encourages you. Show how curious and engaged you are.

Tip: Be authentic and truthful. Don't invent hobbies just to impress the interviewer.

8. What was the last book you read?

When answering, avoid mentioning mandatory school readings, famous bestsellers, or very complex works that you don't master. Choose a book that really marked you and that you feel comfortable talking about. Explain why he touched you and what reflections it provoked.

Tip: Take the opportunity to show how reading relates to your interests and desired area of study.

9. If you could change something from your past, what would it be?

Instead of focusing on regrets or bitter decisions, try to set a positive tone to the response. Talk about how you would take advantage of more opportunities, dedicate yourself to new interests, or face challenges in another way. Show how you learned and grew from these experiences.

Tip: Demonstrate self-knowledge and the ability to learn from your own mistakes and limitations.

10. Do you have any questions?

Having relevant and well thought out questions shows your genuine interest in University abroad. Take the opportunity to answer questions about the program, campus life, research and internship opportunities, or any other aspect that is important to you. Avoid questions with obvious answers that can be found on the institution's website.

Tip: Design questions that generate an interesting conversation and demonstrate that you've thought deeply about the university.

Be easy

Preparing for an admission interview can be challenging, but with the right tips and support from our team, you'll be more confident to show your best self and win a place at the university of your dreams.

Na Be easy, our experienced consultants are ready to guide you at every stage of the selection process, from choosing institutions to preparing for interviews.

Don't waste any more time and contact Be easy to start planning your journey to the ideal university!

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Natasha Machado
Founder e CEO, Be Easy