Common University Interview Questions & Answers

Do you have a university interview coming up? Feeling nervous about what they'll ask? You're not alone. Thousands of students each year have the same concerns you do. You've worked hard on your application, but now you need to prove yourself face-to-face. One tricky question could throw you off completely, and you might freeze up or ramble on without really answering what they asked.

Try not to worry. We'll walk you through the most common university interview questions and answers. You'll learn what interviewers are really looking for and how to show your potential without sounding rehearsed. Let’s dive in.

Key Takeaways

• Use proven frameworks like STAR and PEEL to structure strong, clear answers.

• Explore 8-10 common questions with model answers tailored to different subjects.

• Discover practical tips for handling difficult questions and recovering from mistakes.

What to Expect from a University Interview

Not all universities conduct interviews, but they're common for competitive courses and institutions. For example, the University of Oxford (opens in a new tab) typically interviews 10,000 students (out of 23,000 applications) for 3,300 places.

If you are asked to attend an interview, they tend to last between 15 minutes to an hour. However, your invite email or letter will include all the important details, including the length of your interview. The purpose is to assess whether you're genuinely interested in the subject, can think critically, and would thrive in their academic environment.

Some interviews feel quite formal, especially at Oxford and Cambridge. More information on the interview process for Oxford can be found in our How to Get Into Oxford University Overview. 

Other interviews are more like friendly conversations. It depends on the institution and the course you're applying for.

Interviews are almost always included for:

• Medical courses

• Law courses

• All courses at Oxford and Cambridge

• Many STEM courses at top institutions

Most interviews happen in person on campus, but some take place online via video call. Both formats test the same skills, so don't worry if yours is virtual.

The interview isn't about catching you out. Tutors want to see your potential and how you respond to new ideas. They're looking for curiosity, not perfection.

Types of University Interview Questions

University interviews include several different types of questions. Each one tests something specific about you as a potential student. Understanding the categories helps you prepare better. You'll know what the interviewer is really asking and can tailor your answer accordingly.

Personal Motivation Questions

These questions explore why you want to study this subject and why you've chosen this particular university.

Common examples include:

• "Why do you want to study this subject?"

• "Why have you applied here?"

Interviewers want to see genuine passion. They're checking that you've thought seriously about your choice, and you’re motivated to study at university.

How to nail your answer:

• Mention particular modules, teaching methods, or research areas that excite you. 

• Talk about experiences that sparked your interest, like a book you read or a problem you tried to solve.

• Be specific and use real-life examples

• Don’t use generic answers like, "I've always been interested in it" or "It's a good university." These don't show real engagement.

• Don’t make something up for an answer - interviewers can spot this immediately.

Academic and Subject-Specific Questions

These questions test your understanding of the subject and your ability to think critically.

Common examples include:

For English Literature applicants:

• “Is Shakespeare overrated?”

For Politics applicants:

• “What makes a government legitimate?”

How to nail your answer:

• Take it slow - it’s easy to rush and panic with something new thrown at you.

• Elaborate - don’t just answer yes or no. 

• The rule of three is good to fall back on. Decide on three clear points and explain them to keep your answer focused.

There's rarely one right answer. Interviewers want to see your thought process, how you build an argument, and whether you can consider different perspectives.

Problem-Solving or Unfamiliar Scenario Questions

These questions give you a puzzle or scenario you've probably never encountered before.

They're common in maths, physics, engineering, and medicine. The interviewer wants to see how you think when you don't immediately know the answer.

Common scenario types:

• An unusual maths problem to solve.

• A medical ethical dilemma to work through.

How to nail your answer:

• Don’t be afraid to talk through your thinking out loud. 

• Show your working.

• Ask clarifying questions - this shows curiosity and confidence. 

Interviewers aren't expecting you to get it right instantly. They want to see your problem-solving approach and whether you can learn from hints they give you.

Behavioural and Reflective Questions

These questions ask about past experiences and how you've handled challenges.

Common examples include:

• "Tell me about a time you overcame a challenge." 

• "Describe a situation where you worked in a team."

Universities use these to understand your character, resilience, and how you learn from experiences.

The best way to answer these questions is using the STAR method, which we'll explain in detail below.

These questions aren't trying to catch you out. They simply want to see that you can reflect on your experiences and grow from them.

How to Structure a Great Answer

Having a clear structure makes your answers sound confident and well-organised.

Different types of questions need different approaches. Here are some proven frameworks to help you.

Using the STAR Method

The University of Manchester (opens in a new tab) is one of many institutions that recommend the STAR method for structuring a great interview answer. STAR stands for:

• Situation

• Task

• Action

• Result 

It's perfect for behavioural and reflective questions.

Here's an example for, "Tell me about a time you showed leadership":

Using PEEL for Academic Questions

PEEL stands for:

• Point

• Evidence

• Explain

• Link 

It helps you structure academic responses clearly.

Here’s an example for, "Is social media harmful to democracy?":

Showing Passion Without Rehearsing

Interviewers can spot memorised answers a mile away. They sound wooden and don't respond to what's actually being asked.

Instead of memorising scripts, prepare key ideas and examples you might want to mention. Know why you love your subject, but express it naturally.

Rather than saying "I love chemistry," say "I found the idea of reaction mechanisms fascinating when we studied nucleophilic substitution. I spent a long time drawing out different pathways to understand why some reactions are faster than others."

When I applied to university, one of the best tips I was given was to write three or four key words for each answer you're considering on flashcards. When answering a question aloud, I would use these key words to keep me on track and help structure my answer without sounding scripted or rehearsed.

It's fine to pause and think. Taking a moment shows you're considering the question properly rather than reciting a prepared answer.

Let your genuine enthusiasm come through. Talk about the aspects of the subject that genuinely excite you, even if they seem niche or unusual.

Sample Interview Questions and Model Answers

Here are common questions with strong model answers for a variety of subjects. Use these as inspiration, but remember to personalise your responses with your own experiences.

Question 1: Why do you want to study this subject?

Model Answer (for Biology):

"I've always been curious about how living things work at a cellular level. Last year, I read 'The Gene' by Siddhartha Mukherjee, which explained how genetic mutations can lead to diseases like cancer. I was fascinated by the idea that understanding these mechanisms could lead to treatments.

I've extended this interest through a biology club at school, where we discussed CRISPR technology and its ethical implications. The complexity of biological systems and the real-world impact of biological research really drives my passion for the subject."

Question 2: Why have you chosen this university?

Model Answer: (for Environmental Science)

"Your course structure really appeals, especially the second-year module on conservation biology. I'm interested in how scientific research can inform environmental policy, and I noticed your department has strong links with local nature reserves for fieldwork opportunities.

I also attended your open day and spoke with Dr. Smith about her research on pollinator decline. The idea that undergraduates can get involved in real research projects from the first year really appeals to me."

Question 3: Tell me about something you've read related to your subject that isn't on the syllabus.

Model Answer (for History):

"I recently read 'Silk Roads' by Peter Frankopan, which challenged my Eurocentric view of world history. It argues that Central Asia, not Europe, was the centre of global trade and cultural exchange for most of history.

What struck me was how economic factors shaped political decisions. For example, European exploration wasn't just about discovery; it was about finding alternative trade routes to access Asian goods. This made me think differently about cause and effect in history and how economic motivations often underpin political events."

Question 4: How would you explain [complex concept] to someone who knows nothing about it?

Model Answer (Explaining photosynthesis):

"Imagine plants are like tiny factories that make food using sunlight as their power source. They take in carbon dioxide from the air, which is like their raw material, and water from the soil. Using energy from sunlight, they convert these into glucose, which is sugar they use as food.

As a by-product, they release oxygen, which is what we breathe. So essentially, plants are powered by sunlight and turn air and water into food, giving us oxygen in return. The clever bit is that this happens in chloroplasts, which contain chlorophyll that captures the light energy."

Question 5: Tell me about a time you faced a challenge and how you overcame it.

Model Answer: (A Maths example using the STAR Method)

Question 6: What makes a good [doctor/teacher/lawyer]?

Model Answer (for Medicine):

"A good doctor needs strong communication skills. Medical knowledge is essential, but you also need to be able to explain a diagnosis or treatment in a way patients understand. 

Empathy is crucial too. Patients are often scared or vulnerable, and a doctor needs to understand their concerns beyond just the physical symptoms. I saw this during my work experience at a GP surgery, where one doctor spent extra time reassuring an elderly patient about a procedure, which made a huge difference to their anxiety levels.”

Question 7: What's the most interesting thing you've learned recently?

Model Answer (for Psychology):

"I recently learned about the 'spotlight effect,' which is the psychological phenomenon where we overestimate how much others notice our appearance or behaviour. Research shows we think people are paying far more attention to us than they actually are.

What fascinated me was the study where participants wore embarrassing t-shirts and estimated that about 50% of people would notice, when actually fewer than 25% did. This links to social anxiety and self-consciousness, and it made me think about how our perception of reality differs from actual reality."

Question 10: Do you have any questions for me?

Good questions to ask:

"What opportunities are there for undergraduates to get involved in research?"

"How is the course taught differently at university compared to A-level?"

"What do students find most challenging about first year, and what support is available?"

"What makes students successful on this course?"

Tips for Acing Your Interview

Preparation makes all the difference. Here's how to get ready properly:

• Do mock interviews. Ask a teacher, parent, or friend to interview you using common questions. Practising out loud is completely different from thinking about answers in your head.

• Read around your subject. Go beyond the curriculum. Read articles, watch documentaries, listen to podcasts. Be ready to discuss what you've learned.

• Review your personal statement. Interviewers often use your personal statement as a starting point. Make sure you can discuss everything you mentioned and remember why you included it.

• Prepare questions to ask. Having thoughtful questions ready shows genuine interest. Think about what you actually want to know about the course or university.

• Dress appropriately. You don't need a full suit, but look neat and professional. Smart casual is usually fine. For online interviews, check your background looks tidy and test your technology beforehand.

• Practice speaking clearly. It's easy to rush when nervous. Consciously slow down and articulate your words properly.

• Plan your journey. If it's in person, know exactly how to get there and arrive 15 minutes early. Being late because you got lost adds unnecessary stress.

• For online interviews, test your camera, microphone, and internet connection the day before. Have a backup plan if technology fails.

• Get good sleep the night before. Your brain needs rest to think clearly and handle unexpected questions.

How to Handle a Difficult Interview Question

Even with perfect preparation, you might face a question that stumps you. Don't panic.

• It's completely fine to pause and think. Say, "That's an interesting question, let me think for a moment." 

  • Taking 10-15 seconds to gather your thoughts looks better than immediately launching into a rambling answer.

• If you don't understand the question, ask for clarification. Say "Could you rephrase that?" or "Just to make sure I've understood, are you asking about...?" 

  • This is much better than answering the wrong question.

• Think out loud. Even if you don't know the answer, verbalising your thought process shows how you approach problems. 

  • Say things like "Well, I'd start by considering..." or "One way to think about this might be..."

• It's okay to say you don't know something, but follow it up with how you'd find out.

  • For example: "I'm not familiar with that theory, but based on what you've just said, I'd research…"

• If you realise you've made a mistake mid-answer, correct yourself. Say "Actually, I need to reconsider that" or "Sorry, I think I misunderstood the question initially." 

  • This shows intellectual honesty.

• Don't try to bluff. Interviewers can tell when you're making things up, and it damages your credibility.

Remember, interviewers aren't trying to humiliate you. They want to see how you think, learn, and respond to challenges. Handling difficulty with honesty and composure is actually impressive.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Are University Interviews?

Most university interviews last between 15 minutes and an hour. The average is around 20-30 minutes.

Shorter interviews aren't necessarily bad. Some universities conduct brief 15-20 minute interviews that are just as thorough as longer ones.

What Should I Wear to a University Interview?

Aim for smart casual or business casual. You don't need a formal suit, but avoid anything too casual like jeans, trainers, or hoodies.

Good options include smart trousers or a skirt with a neat shirt or jumper. If you feel more comfortable in a suit, that's fine too, but it's not required.

For online interviews, dress the same way. Even though you're at home, dressing properly helps you feel more professional and the interviewer can see you on camera.

The key is looking neat and showing you've made an effort. Your clothes shouldn't distract from what you're saying.

Can I Ask Questions at the End of the Interview?

Yes. In fact, it's encouraged.

Most interviewers will ask, "Do you have any questions for me?" at the end. Having a thoughtful question prepared shows genuine interest and engagement.

Ask about:

• Teaching methods

• Research opportunities

• Course structure

• Student support

• What makes students successful on the course

These show you're thinking seriously about your time at university.

Avoid questions that are easily answered on the website, like basic entry requirements or how many modules there are. This suggests you haven't done proper research.

Do All Universities Do Interviews?

No, not all universities conduct interviews.

Interviews are most common for:

• Oxbridge (Oxford and Cambridge)

• Medical and dental schools

• Veterinary medicine

• Law at some universities

• Teaching courses

• Performing arts courses

• Some competitive STEM courses

Many universities make offers based solely on your UCAS application, predicted grades, and personal statement. Check each university's website or your UCAS application to see if interviews are part of their process. If they don't mention interviews, they probably don't do them.

Final Thoughts

University interviews can feel overwhelming, but they're an excellent opportunity to show who you are beyond your grades.

The key is thoughtful preparation. Know why you love your subject, practise answering different types of questions, and develop frameworks like STAR and PEEL to structure your responses.

Remember that interviewers are looking for potential, not perfection. They want to see how you think, whether you're genuinely interested in the subject, and if you'd thrive at their university.

Everyone feels nervous. That's completely normal. But with good preparation, you can walk into that interview room feeling confident and ready.

References

University of Oxford - Guide for Applicants: Interviews (opens in a new tab)

University of Manchester - Preparing for university interviews (opens in a new tab)