Five tips to help you master your university interview 

Feeling a little anxious about your upcoming university interview? It’s natural to be nervous.

But it’s also important to remember that receiving an invitation to interview means your application has already impressed us – congratulations, you’re so close to becoming part of our community. Let’s ease those nerves and ace that interview with these five top tips.

1. Practice answers to common questions and do your research

It sounds obvious, but admissions tutors will be keen to know why you want to study the course and what makes you passionate about the subject. Revisit the course information and make sure your responses match the course specifics, such as modules.

It’s also worth preparing answers to common interview questions, like, ‘why do you want to study at Nottingham?’. Having an idea of what you may be asked will help you feel more relaxed about the interview process. Have your responses to these types of questions polished and memorised but be careful not to sound too scripted.

To help you prepare further, run through your interview technique with a friend, family member or teacher.

2. Reread your personal statement

You might be asked about things you included in your personal statement at the interview so familiarise yourself with what you wrote and be prepared to elaborate on any points.

It may be helpful to write down any key points and rehearse a supporting statement for each.

3. Dress smartly and comfortably

There’s no need to wear a suit but dressing smartly will give a good first impression, and demonstrate you take your studies seriously. This advice also applies if your interview is conducted online, as you’ll still need to show admissions tutors that you’ve made an effort. 

4. Prepare your own questions

An interview is a two-way process. It’s an opportunity to make sure you like our university and can imagine yourself studying here. Ask your interviewer some questions to find out as much as you can about the course and living and studying in Nottingham. Asking questions also shows you’re engaged and interested.

You could ask about:

• A specific module on your chosen course
• Assessment methods and teaching styles
• Employability options and opportunities

5. Relax

While the process can be nerve-wracking, it’s important to remember that you’ve secured this interview based on merit, so with appropriate preparation, there’s nothing to worry about. We’ve asked you to interview because we’d like to get to know you. And don’t forget, it’s a chance for you to get to know us too.

What to expect from a university interview

University interviews are used by admissions staff as a means of comparing applicants with a good chance of being offered places on their courses.

For some courses, you may need to bring along a portfolio of work or be asked to complete a task. If this is the case, you’ll be informed in advance.

Types of university interviews

Conventional discussion-based interviews

A conventional interview often involves a discussion between you and one of the tutors on your chosen course. You’ll be asked a series of questions and may be asked to complete a relevant task. Some interviews may be informal and in a group setting. Ask about the format beforehand if you’re unsure.

Online interviews

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, some interviews may still be held online. In this instance, you'll need access to IT equipment with a webcam and microphone, reliable Wi-Fi and private and quiet space without interruptions. 

Multiple-Mini Interviews (MMI)

MMIs are designed to see if you have the right skills and characteristics to succeed on medicine or similar courses. You'll be asked to complete a series of tasks that test different traits.

Portfolios

For some courses, you may need to bring along a portfolio of work or be asked to complete a task. If this is the case, we'll let you know in advance.

What happens after a university interview?

The outcome of your interview will be uploaded on UCAS, so keep checking for an update on your application status. If you are successful, you will be given an offer and you will then be able to make your decision. Hopefully, this means you’ll join us, and if so, you can expect communications from us to tell you more about what to look forward to, how to apply for accommodation and when to enrol.
 
In some cases, we’ll offer you a different course from the one you applied for. This may be because you have shown strengths in different areas, you don’t meet the criteria for your chosen course, or we think another course would be more suited to your ambitions.

If this happens then take some time to read through the course information and make a note of any questions. If you’re happy with the offered alternative course, you can reply in UCAS track or follow the instructions in your admissions email. If you have further questions, please contact our admissions team and we’ll be happy to help.