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Posted Feb. 6, 2025

How do you prepare for a masters degree interview?

Masters degree interviews

An interview can be a part of the masters degree application process, particularly if you’re apply for an MBA program or a professional postgraduate qualification. In this instance, the interview is likely to be in the form of a panel interview, where you will be questioned by a few members of the faculty keen to know why you are a suitable candidate for the masters degree.

Alternatively, some admissions teams may invite you for a ‘chat’ before confirming your place on the masters degree – this is a more informal, one-to-one interview where you will discuss aspects of your application, such as your area of specialism, potential research project and how you hope to expand your knowledge during the postgraduate course. This type of interview is more likely for humanities and social science courses.

In both scenarios, you may also be required to do a presentation. The university will tell you in advance what they want you to present, and in what format. For example, you might need to prepare a PowerPoint presentation or discuss part of your portfolio.

Although not all postgraduate programs will require you to attend an interview, it’s important to be properly prepared if you do have to impress your future supervisor or an interview panel to be accepted on the course. And it’s always a good idea to be interview savvy, as this is a skill that will stand you in good stead in future careers or if you want to progress further in academia by doing an MRes or a doctorate.

Here are our top tips to preparing for a masters degree interview

1. Find out who is going to be interviewing you. Are you going to be meeting the head of the faculty? If you know who you are going to be meeting, you can research into their background, read their publications and learn more about their area of expertise – this will impress them at the interview. Will there be a team of people for you to present to rather than just one person? If you are going to be talking to more than one person you will be much better prepared if you know what and who to expect.

2. Research the masters degree course curriculum so you know what you will be studying and in what format – course structure, tutorials, exams, length of research project, etc. Knowing this information will prepare you for any questions that might arise during the interview about the course. You might find that researching into this leads to some questions of your own, and it’s always a good idea to have a couple of questions to ask your interviewer.

3. Check your application materials. Reread your personal statement and CV so you know what the interviewer(s) are expecting from you, and you can answer any questions about yourself, your academic background and career with confidence.

4. Practice a mock interview, ideally with a former academic supervisor or colleague. This will help you pace yourself when speaking at the interview, particularly if you have to do a presentation – as you want to make sure you speak clearly, slowly and with confidence.

5. Choose a suitable outfit – even if the interview is online rather than in-person, it’s important to dress the part and project the right image. Smart, professional attire is a great way to get your head into the interview zone and is guaranteed to impress the panel.

6. Check your tech. If your interview is online, make sure your WiFi is stable, you know how to share your screen, and your computer microphone and camera are in good working order.

7. Plan your route. If your interview is in-person, ensure you know the route. If you’re travelling on public transport, check the connections and any possible delays, for example engineering works or industrial action. If you are driving work out where you can park in advance to avoid any extra stress on the day.

By following these seven tips, you should be well prepared for your interviewed and will be starting your masters degree before you know it!

Read our Complete Guide to Applying for a Masters Degree for more application advice.

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