How to smash your college interview

College interviews are not like other interviews that you might have for a job or university. They are more likely to be an informal chat with a careers guidance professional. However, there are a few things that you can do to make sure that you smash it.

Prepare for your college interview

To make the most out of your college interview, you should prepare! You can do this by reviewing what you put on your college application. Remember, at this stage your application is all the interviewer knows about you, so be prepared to discuss your application.

College Interview Questions

You are going to get asked questions at your college interview. These questions are about getting to know you and to make sure that the course you have applied for is the right one for you and your career goals. You should know the answer to most of these questions – so there is nothing to worry about. If you don’t know the answer now, then thinking about your answers to the questions below is a great way to prepare for your college interview.

Possible Interview Questions

• What are your predicted exam grades? Have you sat any mock exams? What were the results?
• Why have you applied for your course?
• What are your hobbies and interests?
• What are your favourite subjects at school?
• What do you want to do after college?
• What career do you want to pursue?
• Why have you chosen to apply for this college? Have you been on a taster day?
• What do you know about the course already?
• Do you have any support needs?
• What are you looking for in a college?
• Do you have any additional duties at school? Are you a prefect? Are you on the student council?
• Do you have a part-time job or do any volunteering work?

Get your questions answered

Your college interview is also your chance to ask some questions! What do you want to know about your course and the College you have applied for? Here are some things you might want to ask:

• How can I get to college? Is there a bus?
• What is the difference between A-Levels, BTECs and T-Levels?
• What kind of enrichment activities are available?
• What does a typical timetable look like?

It’s all about you

Your college interview is all about you – your course, your career, your future. Remember that this is just an informal chat with someone from the College. Their goal is to help you make the right choices for your future. A little preparation beforehand and you’ll smash that college interview.

About the Author

Dave has been working in the Education sector for over twenty years. During that time he has visited 100s of schools in the Lancashire region and helped thousands of students take their next steps after school providing support and careers advice and guidance. Dave is currently undertaking a Level 6 in Information Advice and Guidance to further his knowledge and skills in the sector. On a day to day basis Dave is working at Preston College as the Recruitment and Progression Manager for 14-19 year olds organising the College events such as Open Days, Tasters and Welcome Evenings. When he’s not on campus he will be visiting schools in the local area, delivering presentations, attending careers fairs and hosting workshops.