How to prepare for interviews, auditions and tests

 

Depending on the kind of courses you apply for, your chosen unis and colleges may invite you for an interview or audition – in fact they’re compulsory for some courses, such as teaching and nursing.



They’re a way for both students and course tutors to find out if they’re
mutually suitable. If invited, your chosen uni will make sure you have
all the details so you know where to go and when. The interviewers may
want to see work examples – such as an essay or piece of coursework –
but they’ll let you know this in advance.



Here are some quick tips from us:

1. Plan ahead – check where you’ve got to go, when you’ve got to
   be there and try to sleep well the night before so you’re in the best
   possible position on the day.
    
2. Make a good first impression – show up on time, dress
   appropriately, remember your manners and be in control of your body
   language. Interviewers see hundreds (sometimes thousands) of students so
   make sure you stand out for all the right reasons.
    
3. Try your best to relax – although interviews are a daunting
   experience, try to enjoy it once you’re there. If the unexpected happens
   and they ask a question you’re not prepared for, don’t panic – ask your
   interviewer to rephrase or repeat the question and give it your best
   shot. They won’t be trying to catch you out.
    
4. Read your personal statement – your interviewer will have
   your application fresh in their mind, so make sure you can remember what
   you wrote and be prepared to talk about it.
     
5. Shout about your achievements – well don’t literally shout,
   but be prepared to talk passionately about things you’ve done which
   you’re proud of – for example coursework, charity work or a social event
   you might have organised. If it demonstrates key skills that are linked
   to your chosen course, mention it.
    
6. Ask questions – you need to convince your interviewer that
   you’ve got a real passion for your subject, so come prepared with
   questions to show that you’ve really thought about studying the subject
   at your chosen uni.
     
7. Reflect on it afterwards – when you come out of the interview
   room, allow time to make notes on how it went. If you’ve got more than
   one interview, this will give you something to work on for the next one.

For more interview tips, take a look at our how to prepare for interviews video guide.

Instead of an interview you may be asked to submit a portfolio or take
an admissions test. In this case, the university will let you know what
you need to do and when by. If for any reason you can’t meet their
requirements you must let them know as early as possible.