What is the purpose of this interview?

This interview is done due to some being a perfect match on paper but not so much in real life. So the purpose of this interview is allowing members to take a look at you and meet you in person. So if you have managed to get an interview just know that that is a huge accomplishment. This being said, you should know about the most used Grad school interview questions.

They want to know if you have what it takes to succeed in graduate school and the profession like motivation, interest, interpersonal skills, and maturity. They need to know how you handle stress, how you express yourself etc. This is also your chance of asking questions about the facilities or anything else that you are curious about. Not all grad schools demand an interview but you have to be ready because of the possibilities.

What to expect in the interview?

You should get a schedule before the interview so it has a list of the things that you are going to do, who is going to interview you, at what time, etc. Make sure to take this schedule so you know what you are going to do.

When you are taking the interview there may be more than one professor questioning you that is because when you leave they can disuse on whether you are a good candidate or not.

People are all dressed professionally so do not wear ripped jeans or anything like that try to wear a business casual outfit because you have to look professional the whole time.

Your interview is going to last anywhere between 20 to an hour. It all depends on how many interviews they have that day.

Some interviews include social events like parties. Don’t drink more than one glass or even better don’t drink at all. Because it can look like a party but remember that you are in an important interview.

What are some common questions?

They aren’t going to ask something special for every candidate all of them get the same questions so rehearse them before head so you are more prepared for the interview.

Here are the most used Grad school interview questions:

Tell me about yourself.

What are your strengths and weaknesses?

If you’re not accepted into graduate school, what do you plan?

Why did you choose this career?

How would your professors describe you?

How will you be able to contribute to this field?

What are your hobbies?

Describe your greatest accomplishment.

Tell me about your experience in this field. What was challenging? What was your contribution?

What are your career goals? How will this program help you reach your goals?

How do you intend to finance your education?

What experiences do you bring to the program?

What do you think your biggest challenge will be if you are accepted into this program?

What courses did you enjoy the most when you were in college? The least? Why?

Describe any research project you have worked on. What was the goal of the project and what was your role in the project?

Are you motivated? Explain and provide examples.

What do you plan to specialize in?

What do you do in your spare time?

What do you know about our program?

What other schools are you considering?

In what methods have your previous experience prepared you for graduate study in our program?

So how can I prepare for the interview?

There is nothing better than preparing for the interview before the head so you know what to expect. Learn about the program and faculty so you can answer when they ask about them. The more you know about the field that you choose the more you can demonstrate your passion. Rehearse the commonly asked questions so you can identify your strengths and weaknesses.

If you are asked to describe your past behavior “star technique” is a really good method that you can use. Review your own interest so you are able to explain that your goals and qualifications match with what the program offers. Try to look from a faculty member’s perspective on what you can contribute to their graduate program. Why should they accept you? It’s good to also prepare some intelligent questions to ask.