Interview is the only tool for the selection committee to get to know you personally and justify all the facts and enthusiasm you’ve shown in your motivation latter. Content, environment and overall experience of the interview can depend on so many things. But don’t worry, professors and coordinators try to make you feel as comfortable so that you perform your best. Its hard to determine what kind of question or conversation can take place during the interview but based on my personal experience, discussion with seniors and fellow students who made it through to the other side, I have prepares this quick writeup on how to prepare for an interview with admission committee. Starting with, What kind of questions are asked during the interview ? To give a broad idea, followings could be the contents of the interview.

Most commonly asked questions are about

– Your undergraduate study

– Job experience. Your roles and responsibility (if Applicable)

– Why you are interested in higher study?

– Reason behind choosing this subject, University (or even country).

– Your compatibility. For example – Your skill and subject related questions

– Things that you learned in your undergraduate

– Your area of focus/interest in your field

– Future plan. What you want to focus on.

And so on.

Some common suggestion you can keep in mind:

Depending on the subject, Uni and professors; length and content of the interview can vary. Mine was, if I recall correctly, almost an hour. So be mentally prepared. Chose a place and setting where you can focus most. Try to be comfortable. Don’t be nervous. If you feel that you are not ready yet to answer the particular question, say it. Do not try to impress them with your creativity. If you do not know the answer, if you have not thought about it earlier, just admit it. False and under-prepared answers disturb them more than an honest surrender. If you need something, for example, if you cannot hear them properly and reestablish the call or to drink some water or close the window, ask for permission and do it. But be critically careful whether its absolutely necessary or not. Remember they are human beings (more sensible and sophisticated) they will understand. And if something is disturbing/bothering/ making annoying noise, its more annoying on a conference phone then in a real environment. Although, being a prepared prospective student you should pay attention to all the smallest detail. Keep copies of all the academic documents in front of you. Know a little bit about the city (where the university is located) and practical aspects of living there. But don’t say anything about it unless asked.

Try to be precise, coherent and confident. Keep in mind that formal conversation does not mean robotic delivery of information. You can lough, pause or ask for clarification if you do not understand the question.

Maintain a jolly, playful and enjoyable attitude throughout the time. And don’t forget to thank them for their time and giving you the opportunity and wish them a good day/evening at the end.

Best of luck !