University Interviews Explained

Receiving a university interview invitation is exciting, but it can also be nerve-racking.

You may wonder:

• Why have I been invited?

• What will they ask?

• Is the interview academic or personal?

• Do I need to wear a suit?

• What happens if I do not know an answer?

• Does getting an interview mean I am likely to receive an offer?

There is no single university interview format.

Your interview might be:

• A relaxed conversation with one admissions tutor

• A panel interview

• An academic discussion

• A series of multiple mini interviews

• A group task

• A portfolio review

• An audition

• A practical assessment

• An online interview

• Part of a longer selection day

The format depends on the university, course and purpose of the interview.

Oxford interviews, for example, are academic conversations designed to explore how applicants think and respond to new ideas. Medicine interviews may assess communication, judgement, motivation and professional values through several short stations. Creative courses may use the interview to discuss your portfolio and how your ideas developed.

This guide explains how university interviews work, what universities are looking for and how to prepare without memorising artificial answers.

For an overview of the full post-application process, read What Happens After You Submit Your Application? [What Happens After You Submit Your Application?].

What Is a University Interview?

A university interview is a conversation or assessment used to help an admissions team decide whether you are suitable for a course.

The university may use it to assess:

• Your interest in the subject

• Your academic potential

• Your communication

• Your ability to think independently

• Your response to unfamiliar ideas

• Your understanding of the course

• Your motivation for a professional career

• Your teamwork

• Your judgement

• Your creative or practical ability

• Your readiness for university-level study

An interview is normally considered alongside other application information, including:

• Predicted or achieved grades

• Required subjects

• GCSE results

• Your UCAS personal statement responses

• Academic reference

• Admissions-test results

• Portfolio or audition

• Contextual information

• Work or voluntary experience

The interview is rarely the only factor deciding whether you receive an offer.

Do All Universities Interview Applicants?

No.

Most undergraduate university courses do not interview every applicant.

Many universities make decisions using:

• Academic qualifications

• Predicted grades

• Personal statement responses

• References

• Admissions tests

• Portfolios or written work

Interviews are more common for:

• Medicine

• Dentistry

• Veterinary Medicine

• Nursing and Midwifery

• Allied health professions

• Teaching

• Social Work

• Oxford and Cambridge courses

• Art and Design

• Architecture

• Music

• Drama

• Performing Arts

• Courses with professional suitability requirements

Even within these subjects, policies differ.

One university may interview every eligible applicant, while another interviews only those who pass an initial academic or admissions-test screening stage.

Always check the individual course page.

Why Do Universities Interview Applicants?

Universities interview for several different reasons.

To Explore Academic Potential

An academic interview allows the university to see how you:

• Approach a new problem

• Use existing knowledge

• Respond to guidance

• Explain your reasoning

• Adapt your ideas

• Analyse unfamiliar material

This is particularly important at Oxford and Cambridge, where interviews are designed to resemble aspects of tutorial or supervision-style teaching. Oxford states that its tutors are assessing applicants’ ability to think independently, engage with new ideas and learn in the small-group teaching environment used by the university.

To Confirm Your Motivation

The university may want to understand:

• Why you chose the subject

• What interests you about the degree

• What you have done to explore it

• Whether your expectations are realistic

• Why you are suited to the course

Strong motivation is demonstrated through evidence and reflection, not simply through saying that you have always been passionate about the subject.

To Assess Professional Suitability

Professional courses may need to assess qualities that cannot be understood fully from grades alone.

For Medicine, these can include:

• Communication

• Teamwork

• Empathy

• Integrity

• Resilience

• Reflection

• Motivation

• Understanding of professional responsibilities

The Medical Schools Council identifies communication, teamwork, respect, empathy, honesty and integrity among the core attributes expected of applicants to Medicine.

For Nursing and Midwifery, interview questions may reflect the professional principles within the Nursing and Midwifery Council Code:

• Prioritise people

• Practise effectively

• Preserve safety

• Promote professionalism and trust

To Discuss Your Portfolio or Performance

Creative courses may use interviews to explore:

• How your work developed

• Your creative process

• Your influences

• Technical decisions

• Experimentation

• Your response to feedback

• The ideas behind individual pieces

The interviewer is not only interested in the finished product.

They may be more interested in:

• Sketchbooks

• Drafts

• Research

• Mistakes

• Changes of direction

• What you learned

To Clarify Your Application

The interviewer may ask you to expand on:

• A book you mentioned

• A project

• Work experience

• An EPQ

• A qualification

• A gap in education

• A career change

• An unusual subject combination

UCAS advises applicants to review their application because universities may ask them to expand on their achievements, interests and ambitions.

What Does an Interview Invitation Mean?

An interview invitation means the university is interested enough in your application to continue assessing it.

For courses that shortlist applicants, being invited is a positive achievement.

However, it does not guarantee:

• An offer

• A place

• A particular offer level

• That you are among the final applicants

• That you have passed every other selection stage

Oxford receives far more applications than places and invites only shortlisted candidates to interview. For 2027 entry, shortlisted applicants will be interviewed online during December 2026.

Other universities may interview nearly every applicant who meets their minimum requirements.

The significance of the invitation therefore depends on the course’s selection process.

How Will You Receive an Interview Invitation?

An invitation may arrive:

• Through your UCAS application

• By email

• Through a university applicant portal

• By telephone

• Directly from a university department or college

UCAS explains that interview invitations may be sent through the application or directly by the university. Applicants should check how the provider communicates and monitor their email, UCAS account and applicant portals regularly.

Check:

• Your inbox

• Junk or spam folder

• UCAS

• University portal

• Messages sent to your school

• Any separate account created during the application

Read the Invitation Carefully

The invitation should explain:

• Date

• Time

• Time zone

• Online or in-person format

• Platform or location

• Expected duration

• Interviewers or department

• Materials you need

• Pre-reading

• Portfolio requirements

• Identification

• Tasks or assessments

• Contact details

• How to request adjustments

• How to confirm attendance

Do not assume that every interview at the same university has the same arrangements.

When Do University Interviews Take Place?

Interview dates vary by subject and university.

They can take place from:

• October

• November

• December

• January

• February

• March

• Later in the application cycle

Professional courses may interview applicants over several months.

Oxford Interview Dates for 2027 Entry

Oxford’s interviews for 2027 entry will take place online in December 2026.

Applicants normally receive shortlisting decisions between the middle of November and early December. Oxford warns that candidates may receive only around one week’s notice and may have more than one interview, sometimes with different colleges.

Oxford interview times are difficult to rearrange because of the scale of the process.

Applicants should remain available during their subject’s published interview period.

Cambridge Interview Dates for 2027 Entry

Most Cambridge interview invitations are sent during November or early December.

The main interview period for 2027 entry is:

7 December to 18 December 2026

Additional winter-pool interviews may take place during mid to late January 2027. Mature applicants using the January application round are normally interviewed between mid-March and early April.

Cambridge interview formats can vary by College, so follow the individual invitation carefully.

What If You Cannot Attend?

Contact the university immediately.

UCAS explains that interview dates can be difficult to change, but applicants who genuinely cannot attend should ask the provider as soon as possible. If the invitation was sent through UCAS, a rescheduling option may be available within the application.

Valid reasons might include:

• An examination

• Serious illness

• Bereavement

• Religious observance

• An unavoidable admissions test

• Significant travel disruption

• Another university interview

• A previously disclosed care responsibility

Do not simply fail to attend.

The university could treat this as a withdrawn or unsuccessful application.

Types of University Interview

One-to-One Interview

A one-to-one interview involves one interviewer and one applicant.

It may feel conversational and can include questions about:

• Your subject interests

• Your application

• The course

• Relevant experience

• Future ambitions

The interviewer may be:

• An admissions tutor

• A lecturer

• A course leader

• A professional practitioner

• A current member of staff

Panel Interview

A panel interview involves two or more interviewers.

The panel could include:

• Academic staff

• Admissions staff

• Professional practitioners

• Placement providers

• Current students

• Members of the public

• People with lived experience of a service

One person may ask most of the questions while the others take notes.

Address the person asking the question, but include the rest of the panel through natural eye contact.

Academic Interview

An academic interview focuses on your subject and your ability to learn.

You may be given:

• A text

• A graph

• A photograph

• A poem

• A problem

• An equation

• An object

• A historical source

• A case study

• Experimental data

The interviewer may ask you to:

• Describe what you notice

• Explain your reasoning

• Suggest an interpretation

• Test a hypothesis

• Challenge an argument

• Apply your knowledge

• Respond to new information

Oxford describes this as a focused academic conversation rather than a test of polished performance. Tutors may refer to personal statement content, submitted written work or unfamiliar material.

Multiple Mini Interview

A multiple mini interview, usually called an MMI, involves several short stations.

Each station may assess a different quality or skill.

Examples include:

• Communication

• Ethical reasoning

• Teamwork

• Empathy

• Professional judgement

• Data interpretation

• Motivation

• Reflection

• Prioritisation

• Role-play

You may spend a short period reading the task before entering the station.

A new interviewer or assessor may be present at each station.

Several medical schools use MMIs, and the Medical Schools Council provides official mock-MMI guidance for applicants and schools.

Read MMI Interviews Explained [MMI Interviews Explained] for a complete station-by-station guide.

Group Interview

A group interview allows the university to observe how you work with other applicants.

You might be asked to:

• Discuss an issue

• Solve a problem

• Plan an activity

• Rank options

• Respond to a case study

• Give a short group presentation

The assessors may look for:

• Listening

• Respectful communication

• Cooperation

• Leadership

• Inclusion

• Time management

• Ability to develop another person’s idea

The goal is not to speak more than everyone else.

A strong group participant:

• Contributes

• Listens

• Does not interrupt

• Invites others in

• Keeps the group focused

• Disagrees respectfully

• Helps reach an outcome

Portfolio Interview

A portfolio interview is common for:

• Fine Art

• Graphic Design

• Illustration

• Fashion

• Photography

• Architecture

• Animation

• Product Design

You may be asked:

• Why did you choose this work?

• How did the project begin?

• Which artists or designers influenced you?

• What would you change?

• Which piece was most challenging?

• How do you develop an idea?

• What did you learn from experimentation?

Do not memorise a speech for every page.

Prepare to explain your choices naturally.

Audition Interview

Courses in Music, Acting, Dance and Performance may combine an audition with an interview.

The conversation may explore:

• Your preparation

• Repertoire

• Artistic interests

• Training

• Performance choices

• Collaboration

• Career expectations

• Response to direction

The audition is likely to matter more than whether you give a flawless verbal answer.

Selection Day

A selection day may combine several activities:

• Interview

• Group task

• Written assessment

• Presentation

• Practical activity

• Campus tour

• Course briefing

• Identity checks

Read the schedule carefully.

Some activities may be assessed even when they appear informal.

Online University Interviews

Online interviews are now common.

The university may use:

• Microsoft Teams

• Zoom

• A university platform

• A specialist interview system

You will normally need:

• A computer or suitable tablet

• Webcam

• Microphone

• Speakers or headphones, where permitted

• Reliable internet

• Quiet space

• Correct login details

• Any requested whiteboard or document software

Oxford Online Interviews

Oxford’s 2027 interviews will take place online using Microsoft Teams.

Different subjects use different technology levels. Many courses require only video conferencing, while some mathematical and scientific courses may require an interactive whiteboard and touchscreen device with a stylus. Oxford states that candidates and schools will not be expected to buy equipment and should contact the College if they cannot access the requested technology.

Oxford recommends testing the equipment in advance. If a technical failure prevents the interview from continuing, the College will rearrange it.

Online Interview Checklist

Before the day:

• Test the platform.

• Check your camera.

• Check the microphone.

• Test your internet.

• Update the device.

• Turn off notifications.

• Charge the device.

• Find the interview link.

• Prepare a backup contact number.

• Check the time zone.

• Practise sharing a screen or whiteboard if required.

• Choose a quiet, well-lit space.

Position the camera so that:

• Your face is visible

• The camera is approximately at eye level

• Bright light is not behind you

• The background is not distracting

What Should Be on Your Desk?

Have only permitted materials available.

These might include:

• Plain paper

• Pens

• Water

• Your personal statement

• Submitted written work

• Portfolio

• Pre-reading

• Identification

• Interview contact details

Oxford specifically allows or requests access to personal statements, submitted written work and any pre-reading relevant to the interview.

Do not have prepared answers, internet searches or unauthorised notes open.

Can You Use AI During a University Interview?

No, unless a university explicitly permits a particular tool as an approved reasonable adjustment.

Oxford’s interview code prohibits applicants from using artificial intelligence, automatic transcription or other unauthorised assistive technology during interviews. It also prohibits applicants from researching confidential pre-interview material unless told that they may do so.

Using AI to generate answers during the interview could be treated as misconduct.

In-Person University Interviews

For an in-person interview, check:

• Campus

• Building

• Room

• Registration point

• Arrival time

• Travel

• Parking

• Accommodation

• Identification

• Who to contact if delayed

Plan to arrive early enough to deal with:

• Delayed trains

• Traffic

• Finding the building

• Security

• Registration

• Walking across campus

Do not arrive several hours early unless the university recommends it, but avoid planning a journey with no room for delay.

What Should You Take?

Depending on the course, take:

• Interview invitation

• Identification

• Portfolio

• Audition materials

• Certificates if requested

• Notebook

• Pen

• Water

• Travel information

• Contact number

• Copies of submitted work

Do not take documents that have not been requested and try to force them into the discussion.

What Should You Wear to a University Interview?

Wear something:

• Clean

• Comfortable

• Presentable

• Suitable for the course and activity

You do not normally need a formal suit.

UCAS advises applicants to dress smartly while remaining comfortable.

For most interviews, suitable clothing might include:

• Smart trousers

• Skirt or dress

• Shirt or blouse

• Jumper

• Plain top

• Clean shoes

For a practical, clinical, art or performance assessment, follow any specific clothing instructions.

Oxford states that its admissions decisions are not based on applicants’ appearance and advises candidates to wear clothes in which they feel comfortable.

The interviewer is assessing your suitability, not your fashion budget.

What Questions Will You Be Asked?

Questions depend on the course and interview type.

They may cover:

• Your motivation

• Academic interests

• Your application

• Subject knowledge

• Work experience

• Personal qualities

• Ethical scenarios

• Problem-solving

• Career understanding

• Your portfolio

• Current issues in the subject

Common University Interview Questions

Why Do You Want to Study This Subject?

Avoid answers such as:

I have always found it interesting.

A stronger response explains:

• What specifically interests you

• How the interest developed

• What you explored independently

• What questions you want to investigate further

• Why degree-level study suits you

For example:

My interest in Psychology became much more specific when I studied explanations of memory. I was particularly interested in how controlled laboratory findings translate into eyewitness testimony. That led me to read more about the reliability of memory and the problems involved in applying research outside the laboratory.

Why Did You Apply to This Course?

Focus on:

• Course content

• Teaching approach

• Modules

• Placement or laboratory opportunities

• Professional accreditation

• Year abroad

• Research areas

• Course flexibility

Do not simply repeat the university’s website.

Explain why those features matter to you.

Why This University?

You may discuss:

• Particular modules

• Department expertise

• Facilities

• Placement structure

• Teaching style

• Student support

• Location

• Opportunities connected to the course

Avoid generic praise such as:

It is a prestigious university with a great reputation.

Tell Us About Something You Mentioned in Your Application

Review every:

• Book

• Article

• Lecture

• Podcast

• Project

• Course

• Competition

• Work placement

• Volunteering experience

You should remember:

• What you did

• What you learned

• What surprised you

• Whether your view changed

• How it relates to the course

Do not mention a book without being able to discuss its main ideas.

What Have You Read Recently?

Choose something you genuinely engaged with.

Be ready to explain:

• The central argument

• What you agreed with

• What you questioned

• How it changed your thinking

• What you explored next

What Are Your Strengths?

Give evidence.

Instead of saying:

I am a good communicator.

Explain a situation where you communicated effectively and what you learned.

What Is a Weakness or Area You Are Developing?

Choose something genuine but manageable.

Explain:

1. What the difficulty is

2. How you recognised it

3. What you are doing

4. What progress you have made

Do not disguise a strength as a weakness by saying that you work too hard or care too much.

Tell Us About a Challenge

Use a clear structure:

• Situation

• Challenge

• Action

• Outcome

• Reflection

The reflection matters.

The interviewer is interested in what you learned, not only whether the story ended successfully.

Tell Us About Working in a Team

Explain:

• Your role

• What the group needed

• What you contributed

• How you handled disagreement

• The outcome

• What you would do differently

What Would You Do in This Scenario?

Professional-course scenarios often do not have one perfect answer.

Think about:

• Who might be affected

• Immediate safety

• Your responsibility

• Information you need

• Whether you should seek support

• Confidentiality

• Professional boundaries

• Fairness

• Proportionate action

Explain your reasoning rather than giving only the final decision.

How to Answer University Interview Questions

Answer the Question Asked

Nervous applicants sometimes begin delivering a prepared speech that is only loosely related to the question.

Pause and identify:

• What is being asked?

• What evidence would answer it?

• Does the question have more than one part?

It is fine to take a few seconds to think.

Use Evidence

A strong answer contains examples.

Instead of:

I am interested in engineering.

Say what you explored, built, read, tested or investigated.

Reflect

Reflection makes an experience meaningful.

Explain:

• What you learned

• What changed

• What challenged you

• What you would do differently

• How it influenced your next step

Be Specific

Weak:

My work experience taught me a lot.

Stronger:

Observing a multidisciplinary ward meeting showed me that patient care depends on clear communication between professionals with different priorities. I noticed that the most effective contributions were concise and focused on the patient’s immediate needs.

Do Not Memorise Every Word

Memorised answers can sound unnatural and may collapse when the interviewer asks a follow-up question.

Prepare:

• Key points

• Examples

• Reflections

• Evidence

Do not prepare a complete script.

Think Aloud During Academic Problems

If you are given a problem, explain:

• What you notice

• Which information seems relevant

• What method you might try

• Why you reject an approach

• How new information changes your answer

Oxford tutors are often more interested in the thought process than in receiving an immediate perfect answer.

What If You Do Not Know the Answer?

Do not panic.

You can say:

I am not certain, but I would begin by considering…

or:

I have not studied this directly, but the information suggests…

or:

Could I clarify whether the question is asking about…?

UCAS advises applicants to ask for a question to be repeated or rephrased when they do not understand it.

A good interviewer may provide:

• A hint

• New information

• A simpler example

• A follow-up question

• Another perspective

Respond to the help.

Do not cling to your original answer simply because changing your mind feels like failure.

The ability to learn during the conversation can be exactly what is being assessed.

Oxford and Cambridge Interviews

Oxford Interviews

Oxford interviews are designed to resemble short academic tutorials.

For 2027 entry:

• Interviews will be online.

• They will take place during December 2026.

• Applicants may have more than one interview.

• Interviews may involve more than one College.

• Applicants may receive only around one week’s notice.

• Subject-specific technology requirements apply.

Questions may involve:

• Personal statement material

• Submitted written work

• A graph

• Text

• Poem

• Object

• Problem

• New information

The interviewers are testing how you think and respond, not whether you know every answer.

Cambridge Interviews

Cambridge interviews are subject-focused academic conversations.

Depending on the course and College, you may have:

• One or more subject interviews

• A general academic interview

• An online interview

• An in-person interview

• A College admissions assessment

• Pre-reading or a task

For 2027 entry, the main interview period is 7 to 18 December 2026. The timing of an invitation does not indicate how strong the College thinks your application is.

Cambridge recommends practising academic conversations with a teacher or another suitable adult and becoming familiar with any technology required by the College.

Medicine and Dentistry Interviews

Medicine and Dentistry interviews commonly use:

• Multiple mini interviews

• Panel interviews

• Online interviews

• Role-play

• Ethical scenarios

• Data interpretation

• Motivation questions

The university may assess:

• Communication

• Empathy

• Integrity

• Teamwork

• Reflection

• Professional judgement

• Resilience

• Understanding of the profession

Preparing for Medicine Interviews

Review:

• Why you want to study Medicine

• What doctors actually do

• What you learned from relevant experience

• Teamwork

• Communication

• Ethical reasoning

• Patient safety

• Confidentiality

• Consent

• Equality

• Your response to feedback

Work experience does not need to be dramatic.

What matters is whether you can reflect on:

• People

• Communication

• Responsibility

• Teamwork

• Care

• Professional behaviour

Read Medicine Interview Guide [Medicine Interview Guide] and MMI Interviews Explained [MMI Interviews Explained].

Nursing and Allied Health Interviews

Nursing, Midwifery and allied health interviews may focus on:

• Motivation

• Communication

• Values

• Teamwork

• Respect

• Equality

• Safety

• Confidentiality

• Resilience

• Understanding of the role

• Working with vulnerable people

You may be asked scenario questions.

For example:

You notice that another student has discussed a patient in a public place. What would you do?

A strong answer would consider:

• Confidentiality

• Immediate action

• Professional responsibility

• Appropriate escalation

• Respectful communication

• Preventing further harm

The Nursing and Midwifery Council Code provides a useful framework for understanding the professional expectations behind these questions.

Teaching Interviews

Teaching interviews may assess:

• Motivation to teach

• Understanding of the role

• Communication

• Subject knowledge

• Safeguarding

• Working with young people

• Classroom situations

• Reflection

• Resilience

• Professionalism

You might also complete:

• A written task

• Subject-knowledge assessment

• Presentation

• Group activity

• Short teaching activity

Official Department for Education guidance states that successful teacher-training applicants are invited to interview and can share any adjustments or special circumstances required during the application process.

For undergraduate teaching courses, check whether the selection process includes professional checks or school-based activities.

Art, Design and Architecture Interviews

Prepare to discuss:

• Your portfolio

• Your process

• Influences

• Research

• Experimentation

• Materials

• Unfinished work

• Changes you made

• Problems you encountered

• What you want to develop

Do not apologise constantly for your work.

Be honest about what succeeded and what did not.

A thoughtful explanation of a failed experiment can show:

• Curiosity

• Reflection

• Independence

• Willingness to take creative risks

Read Portfolio Requirements Explained [Portfolio Requirements Explained].

Music, Drama and Performance Interviews

These may follow:

• An audition

• Performance submission

• Workshop

• Sight-reading task

• Recall audition

Be ready to discuss:

• Your chosen material

• Preparation

• Interpretation

• Influences

• Collaboration

• Training

• Response to direction

• Future development

Oxford, for example, asks shortlisted Music applicants to submit a continuous performance video before interview.

How to Prepare for a University Interview

Step 1: Read the Invitation

Make a checklist of:

• Format

• Platform

• Location

• Date

• Time

• Time zone

• Duration

• Interview type

• Documents

• Tasks

• Technology

• Adjustments

• Contact details

Step 2: Review Your UCAS Application

Read:

• Your three personal statement responses

• Academic reference, where available

• Qualification information

• Employment history

• Additional circumstances

• Uploaded documents

Prepare to discuss anything you included.

Read Understanding the New UCAS Personal Statement Format [Understanding the New UCAS Personal Statement Format].

Step 3: Research the Course

Know:

• Course structure

• First-year modules

• Teaching methods

• Assessment

• Placement requirements

• Accreditation

• Optional opportunities

• Year abroad or placement routes

You do not need to memorise the whole website.

Focus on the features that genuinely matter to you.

Step 4: Refresh Your Subject Knowledge

Review:

• Relevant school topics

• Books or articles you mentioned

• Current debates

• Admissions-test content

• Submitted written work

• Portfolio pieces

• Your EPQ

For an academic interview, practise applying knowledge rather than simply reciting it.

Step 5: Prepare Evidence

Choose examples showing:

• Communication

• Teamwork

• Resilience

• Organisation

• Leadership

• Problem-solving

• Reflection

• Responsibility

One example may demonstrate several qualities.

Step 6: Practise Out Loud

Thinking about an answer is not the same as saying it.

Ask a teacher, adviser or trusted adult to conduct a mock interview.

Practise:

• Pausing

• Giving concise answers

• Explaining examples

• Responding to follow-up questions

• Thinking aloud

• Asking for clarification

• Recovering after a weak answer

UCAS recommends practising with a teacher or adviser and preparing to explain why you chose the course and what you enjoy about your current studies.

Step 7: Prepare Questions

Good questions focus on information that:

• Is not obvious online

• Matters to your course choice

• Helps you understand the student experience

Examples include:

How quickly do students begin practical or laboratory work?

How are students supported when choosing optional modules?

How does feedback work during the first year?

How are placements allocated?

Are students able to contribute to departmental research?

Avoid asking questions whose answers appear clearly on the first page of the course website.

Should You Use the STAR Method?

The STAR structure can help with experience-based questions.

Situation

Briefly explain the context.

Task

Explain what needed to happen.

Action

Describe what you did.

Result

Explain the outcome.

For university interviews, add a fifth step:

Reflection

Explain what you learned and how it affected your later behaviour.

A reflective STAR answer is usually stronger than a long story with no clear lesson.

Reasonable Adjustments for Interviews

You can ask for reasonable adjustments if a disability, learning difference, health condition or mental health condition affects the interview process.

Possible adjustments include:

• Extra processing time

• Rest breaks

• Enlarged pre-reading

• Accessible documents

• Captioning or communication support

• Alternative technology

• Adjusted room

• Additional instructions

• Permission to use specific assistive technology

Contact the university as early as possible.

UCAS advises applicants to speak to the relevant university support or disability team about adjustments for interviews and auditions.

Cambridge provides an Adjustment at Interview form and gives examples including extra time and rest breaks.

Requesting an adjustment is not asking for an unfair advantage.

It is intended to remove barriers so that the university can assess your suitability fairly.

What to Do on Interview Day

Before the Interview

• Eat normally.

• Check the time.

• Review the invitation.

• Prepare documents.

• Test technology.

• Turn off notifications.

• Arrive or join early.

• Use the bathroom.

• Have water available.

• Avoid last-minute cramming.

At the Beginning

• Greet the interviewer.

• Listen to the introduction.

• Check that you can hear clearly.

• Mention a technical problem immediately.

• Ask for clarification if instructions are uncertain.

During the Interview

• Listen to the complete question.

• Take a moment to think.

• Answer directly.

• Explain your reasoning.

• Use examples.

• Be willing to change your mind.

• Ask for clarification.

• Treat hints as help, not criticism.

• Remain respectful.

If One Answer Goes Badly

Let it go.

The interview contains several questions because no single answer normally determines the whole result.

Take a breath and focus on the next question.

Interviewers understand that applicants are nervous.

What Happens After the Interview?

After the interview:

1. Write brief notes for your own reflection.

2. Record anything you want to improve.

3. Check your email and applicant portal.

4. Respond to further requests.

5. Continue working towards your qualifications.

UCAS recommends reflecting on what worked and what could improve, especially when you have further interviews.

Do not repeatedly contact the admissions team asking whether you were successful before the published decision date.

Should You Send a Thank-You Email?

Usually, this is unnecessary.

A brief polite message may be appropriate if:

• A staff member provided unusual practical assistance

• You need to send a requested document

• You are confirming a technical incident

• The university explicitly invited follow-up communication

A thank-you email will not normally influence the admissions decision.

Can You Change an Answer Afterwards?

No.

You cannot normally submit a replacement answer because you thought of something stronger after the interview.

This happens to almost everyone.

The assessors consider your performance as a whole.

University Interview Outcomes

After the interview, the university may:

• Make a conditional offer

• Make an unconditional offer

• Reject the application

• Invite you to another interview

• Request further work

• Offer a different course

• Place your application on hold

• Refer you to another College

The interview result may appear:

• In UCAS

• By email

• In the university portal

• Through a College

Read How Universities Make Offers [How Universities Make Offers] for a full explanation.

Can You Request Interview Feedback?

Possibly.

Feedback policies vary.

A university may:

• Provide automatic feedback

• Allow a written request

• Provide feedback only to the applicant

• Provide limited general comments

• Decline to provide detailed scoring

• Set a request deadline

Do not expect:

• A full transcript

• Interviewer notes

• A detailed comparison with other applicants

• A second assessment

Where feedback is available, use it constructively.

Common University Interview Mistakes

Memorising Scripts

Memorised answers sound inflexible and struggle under follow-up questions.

Not Reading Your Application

You should be able to discuss everything you submitted.

Giving Generic Motivation

Explain what genuinely interests you about the subject.

Describing Experiences Without Reflection

The interviewer wants to know what you learned.

Researching the University but Not the Course

Course details matter more than slogans and league-table positions.

Speaking for Too Long

Give enough detail to answer the question, then allow the interviewer to respond.

Giving One-Word Answers

Develop your reasoning.

Pretending to Know Something

It is better to think honestly from the available information.

Ignoring Hints

Academic interviewers may be testing whether you can learn from guidance.

Treating an MMI as a General-Knowledge Quiz

Professional judgement and reasoning often matter more than memorised facts.

Dominating a Group Task

Leadership is not the same as speaking constantly.

Staying Silent in a Group Task

You need to contribute for the assessors to evaluate you.

Criticising Other Applicants

Remain respectful and collaborative.

Using AI or Unauthorised Notes

This may be treated as misconduct.

Failing to Test Technology

Avoidable technical problems add unnecessary stress.

Not Requesting Adjustments

Contact the university early so barriers can be addressed.

Arriving Late Without Contacting the University

Keep the admissions team’s contact details available.

University Interview Preparation Checklist

When You Receive the Invitation

•  I have confirmed attendance.

•  I know the date and time.

•  I have checked the time zone.

•  I know whether it is online or in person.

•  I know the interview format.

•  I have read every instruction.

•  I have checked required documents.

•  I have requested reasonable adjustments.

•  I have saved the contact details.

Academic Preparation

•  I have reread my UCAS application.

•  I can discuss everything I mentioned.

•  I have reviewed submitted written work.

•  I have reviewed my portfolio.

•  I have researched the course.

•  I have refreshed relevant subject knowledge.

•  I have considered current issues.

•  I can explain why I want to study the subject.

•  I have practised thinking aloud.

Experience-Based Preparation

•  I have examples of teamwork.

•  I have examples of communication.

•  I have reflected on relevant experience.

•  I can discuss a challenge.

•  I can discuss feedback.

•  I understand the professional role.

•  I can explain what I learned rather than only what I did.

Practical Preparation

•  I have completed a mock interview.

•  I have practised answering out loud.

•  I have suitable clothing.

•  I have prepared questions to ask.

•  I know the travel route or online platform.

•  I have valid identification where required.

•  I know what to do if something goes wrong.

Online Interview Checklist

•  Computer or approved device

•  Webcam

•  Microphone

•  Speakers

•  Reliable internet

•  Charger

•  Correct interview platform

•  Platform tested

•  Interview link saved

•  Quiet space

•  Suitable lighting

•  Plain paper and pens

•  Required documents

•  Notifications disabled

•  Automatic transcription disabled unless approved

•  University telephone number available

•  Backup plan discussed

In-Person Interview Checklist

•  Interview invitation

•  Photographic identification

•  Travel tickets

•  Campus map

•  Building and room

•  Arrival time

•  Contact number

•  Portfolio or audition materials

•  Pen and notebook

•  Water

•  Comfortable, presentable clothing

•  Plan for travel disruption

Frequently Asked Questions About University Interviews

Do All Universities Interview?

No.

Most undergraduate courses do not interview every applicant.

Interviews are particularly common for professional, creative and highly selective courses.

Does an Interview Mean You Will Get an Offer?

No.

It means the university wishes to assess your application further.

Is Getting an Oxford Interview a Good Sign?

Yes.

Oxford interviews only shortlisted candidates, but the interview does not guarantee an offer.

Does Cambridge Interview Everyone?

No.

Cambridge Colleges decide which applicants to invite after reviewing the application and any relevant admissions assessments.

Are Oxford Interviews Online?

Yes.

Oxford’s interviews for 2027 entry will be conducted online in December 2026.

Are Cambridge Interviews Online?

It depends on the College and course.

Check the individual invitation carefully.

How Long Is a University Interview?

It varies.

A traditional interview might last around 20 to 45 minutes. An MMI consists of several shorter stations, while a selection day can last several hours.

Follow the information supplied by the university.

How Many Interviewers Will There Be?

You might have:

• One interviewer

• A panel

• Different interviewers at each MMI station

• Separate subject interviewers

Oxford interviews are normally conducted by two tutors, although there may occasionally be more.

What Should You Wear?

Wear something clean, comfortable and presentable.

You do not normally need a suit.

Can You Take Notes Into the Interview?

Only where the university permits them.

You may be allowed to have:

• Personal statement

• Portfolio

• Submitted written work

• Pre-reading

• Plain paper

Do not use prepared scripts or unauthorised notes.

Can You Ask for the Question to Be Repeated?

Yes.

It is better to clarify than to answer a question you misunderstood.

What If You Do Not Know an Answer?

Explain how you would approach it.

Academic interviews may be designed to include unfamiliar questions.

Should You Think Aloud?

Yes, particularly for academic and problem-solving questions.

The interviewers need to understand your reasoning.

Can You Change Your Mind?

Yes.

Changing your answer after considering new information can demonstrate flexibility and learning.

Are University Interviews Formal?

Some are formal, while others are conversational.

Treat every interview seriously without assuming it will resemble a corporate job interview.

Will They Ask About Your Personal Statement?

They may.

Review all three UCAS personal statement responses and everything you referenced.

Will They Ask Why You Chose the University?

Possibly.

Prepare course-specific reasons rather than generic praise.

Can You Use the Same Answers at Every Interview?

You can use the same genuine experiences, but your responses should reflect the individual course and question.

Should You Memorise Answers?

No.

Prepare key points and examples instead.

How Many Mock Interviews Should You Do?

There is no required number.

One or two thoughtful mock interviews, followed by reflection, can be more useful than repeatedly rehearsing the same questions.

Can Parents Be Present?

Normally not.

You are expected to complete the interview independently unless an approved adjustment or exceptional arrangement applies.

Can Teachers Help During an Online Interview?

They may help set up the room and technology, but they should not remain in the interview or assist with answers unless the university has approved a specific arrangement.

Can You Record the Interview?

Not unless the university explicitly permits it.

Can the University Record the Interview?

The university should tell you if recording forms part of its process.

Can You Use AI During the Interview?

No, unless explicitly approved as a reasonable adjustment.

Can You Get Extra Time?

Possibly.

Contact the university early and provide any requested information.

Will Declaring a Disability Harm Your Application?

Universities are required to consider reasonable adjustments so that disabled applicants are not placed at an unfair disadvantage. UCAS encourages applicants to discuss their support requirements as early as possible.

Can You Rearrange an Interview?

Possibly, but universities may have limited flexibility.

Contact the admissions team immediately if you cannot attend.

What If Your Internet Fails?

Tell the interviewer or admissions contact immediately.

Where the interview cannot continue, the university may rearrange it. Oxford explicitly states that interviews interrupted by serious technical problems will be rescheduled.

What If You Are Ill?

Contact the university before the interview where possible.

Do not struggle through a serious illness without telling the admissions team.

Will One Bad Answer Ruin the Interview?

Usually not.

Interviewers assess the whole discussion.

Should You Email After the Interview?

A thank-you email is normally unnecessary.

Send a message when you need to provide requested information or report a problem.

When Will You Hear Back?

This depends on the university.

Some decide within days, while others wait until all interviews have finished.

Can You Appeal an Interview Decision?

Universities normally allow complaints about process or procedure, not appeals simply because you disagree with academic judgement.

Check the university’s admissions complaints policy.

Final Thoughts on University Interviews

A university interview is not a test of whether you can appear confident for half an hour.

It is an opportunity to demonstrate:

1. Why the subject interests you

2. How you think

3. How you communicate

4. What you learned from your experiences

5. How you respond to challenge

6. Whether you understand the course or profession

7. Whether you can reflect and adapt

Prepare carefully, but do not try to manufacture a perfect version of yourself.

Review your application, understand the course, practise explaining your ideas and become comfortable thinking aloud.

During the interview:

• Listen

• Pause

• Answer the question

• Explain your reasoning

• Use evidence

• Respond to guidance

• Ask for clarification

• Keep going after a difficult moment

The university is not expecting you to arrive as a finished academic, doctor, nurse, teacher, artist or engineer.

It is trying to decide whether you have the potential, motivation and readiness to develop into one.