Prepare for an interview in your own voice

Read the actual curriculum and choose two or three elements you want to understand better. Be ready to explain why they interest you, using your own experiences. “It has a good reputation” gives an interviewer less to explore than a specific connection between something you have studied and something you want to learn.

Choose examples of a challenge, a collaboration, an independent interest and a time you changed your mind. For each, note what happened, what you personally did, the result and what you learned. If it was a team activity, separate the group’s achievement from your contribution. Modest experiences can produce strong answers when your reflection is honest and specific.

• What interests you about this subject?
• Why have you chosen this particular programme?
• Tell us about a project or idea you pursued beyond class.
• What did not go to plan, and how did you respond?
• What would you like to ask us?

These are practice prompts, not a prediction of a particular institution’s interview. Check its official guidance for the actual format.

Record one answer and listen for long introductions, repeated phrases and unclear examples. Try again with a direct opening and one supporting story. Avoid memorising full paragraphs: learn the points you want to communicate so you can respond to a follow-up question naturally. If you do not know something, say so and explain how you would approach it.

For an online interview, test sound, camera and connection, check the time zone and choose a quiet setting. For an in-person interview, plan your route and arrival time. Have the requested documents ready and review your submitted application so your answers remain consistent with it.

Bring a question that helps you assess fit, such as how first-year projects are supported or how students choose electives. An interview is also a chance to understand the learning environment you may join.