Top 5 Academic Interview Questions and

Answers
This article will list the most common interview questions for lecturer positions and suggest
some possible answers to them. The examples of good answers are not the only options. There
are, of course, many other ways of successfully answering these questions. These are suggestions
to get you to think constructively about what you could say.

1. Why do you want to work here?

Bad answer: ‘Because I desperately need a job, stupid!'

This is a tough one. What they are asking for is some thoughts on what you have seen and heard
about the way they do things that make you want to work for them. The emphasis in the question
is on the word ‘here'. So, to answer this question you need to know a lot about the university and
the department. Look at the person specification for the job. If they are obviously looking for
someone who is a good teacher rather than an international researcher, answer this question by
prioritising teaching.

Good Answer: ‘I wanted to move to an institution like this that prioritises good teaching practice
and dedicated pastoral care of students. I believe I can offer this because of [x and y examples of
experience from your previous career].

2. What makes you different from the other candidates?

Bad answer: ‘Um, they all seem to be much more confident and professional than me and I am
very intimidated'

This question is not requesting that you attack the character of your fellow candidates or
compare yourself negatively to them. It is short-hand for ‘why should we hire you?' or ‘why are
you special?' Again think about the person specification and make sure you know what sort of
academic they are looking for. Tailor your own responses to that as much as possible. Make sure
you give examples from your own history to support your assertions. So, for example, if it is an
up and coming department looking for a high-flying researcher to boost their reputation,
emphasise your role in this. If there is anything you do that makes you stand out, for example a
skill or area of experience, mention that here too.

Good answer: Although I am an all-rounder and could contribute to departmental life in many
ways, I know that I have the international research profile that you are looking for. [Go on to
give details of books and articles written, prizes won etc.]

I also think I am unique in that I have direct experience of running online courses and would be
happy to take a lead on introducing that here if colleagues were interested.

3. What are your plans for research?

Bad answer: ‘Not sure. I have been so caught up with trying to find work that I haven't thought
about it.'

This question is obviously asking you to look forward to the future, so drawing up one year, five
year and ten year research plans is helpful before going into an interview. (If you are completing
a PhD and looking for your first job this might sound a little excessive, but believe me, it will
make you stand out and be taken seriously). They will not just want to hear about the topics you
wish to cover but will crucially be interested in two other areas: research funding and your output
(i.e. publications). As well as telling them about your exciting projects, tell them how you're
going to pay for them (which grants you will apply for) and what published benefits there will be
in concrete terms. Aim high at this point; you don't want to sell yourself short. You can write
that monograph or get an article into a world-renowned journal. The scope of your ambition will
help to sell you as the ideal candidate here, so don't worry about sounding arrogant.

Good answer: ‘in the next year I will be finishing up the revisions on my manuscript for x book
which is due for publication on x date. I have several other projects on the go that I wish to
pursue after that [give details]; if my funding applications to the x and y grant bodies are
successful I should be able to see those projects to publication by [give date].'

4. What courses could you offer to teach?

Bad answer: ‘I am so desperate for a job that I will teach anything you ask me to'.

You want to seem keen and flexible and show that you are happy to fit in with the department's
teaching requirements but they also want to hear about new courses that you would like to offer.
In order to answer this question you need to look at the department's current undergraduate
curriculum. That way you can be sure the courses you have invented will fit in with what they
offer now. So if the department already has a course on Nazi Germany, do not propose to offer a
new one. You have to be careful here: do not let your creativity run away with you. If you do get
the job, your new colleagues might say ‘I loved that course you proposed in your interview, can
you run it next year?'
Make sure you suggest something that you could feasibly teach, preferably based on your
previous experience. Think about whether you would offer it in the first, second or third year,
and briefly state what some of your teaching exercises and assessment strategies might be. If you
can make use of technology then mention that too.

Good answer: ‘I would be happy to contribute to some of the existing courses you run, such as x
and y but I also have a few ideas of my own that I feel would appeal to students in the x year of
their education. [Describe the course] I feel that it would fit into your curriculum particularly
well because it complements your other courses in x field but is unique because it covers an
earlier time period or uses different resources [examples].

5. How would you contribute to the administration of the department?

Bad answer: ‘Don't you dare find me a time-consuming admin job to do. That's not why I
became an academic!'

Here they want you to talk about your past admin experience if you have any, and to show your
enthusiasm for this side of things! Fake it if you have to. Pretending that you are desperate to
become the new admissions officer will help you to get the job if that's what they are looking for.
If you have experience of running your own courses, managing an entire programme, or doing a
specific administrative task then mention that. If you can, give an example of a contribution or
innovation that you instituted in that role. If you are at the very start of your career then simply
show even more enthusiasm and emphasise the transferable skills that are vital in these roles, i.e.
being efficient, well-organised and a good communicator.

Good answer: ‘I look forward to having the opportunity to fully contributing to the life of the
department. I have a special interest in the area of admissions/ exams/head of year etc'. I had
some experience in this role at my last institution and realised that I have the skills necessary to
do it well [name them] and actually implemented changes to their policy on x. However, I realise
the need for flexibility here and would happily take on the challenge of any administration role
that would suit my level of expertise.

By Mike Simpson

Being a teacher can be one of the most rewarding jobs on the planet…but getting those first jobs
teaching can be a nerve-wracking experience.

As a teacher, it’s up to you to pass on valuable skills to your students, but when it comes to
learning how to nail that interview for your dream job, it’s up to us to teach you exactly what to
say…and like any good study session, it’s going to require a bit of practice!

Interviewing for a job as a teacher is similar in many ways to interviewing for any other job. You
need to do your research ahead of time and practice your answers before you get to the interview.

There are, however, a few small subtle differences, and knowing how to tackle those curveballs
can mean the difference between scoring the job and flunking out of the interview.
The first thing you need to do when preparing for a teaching interview is to get comfortable
answering behavioral questions. As we’ve covered before, behavioral questions are questions
that are asked specifically so the interviewer can learn about your past behaviors in specific
situations.

These answers will help them better understand how you might behave when confronted with
similar situations in the future. In essence, they want to know that you’ve got what it takes to
be successful not only with the students you’re teaching, but also with their parents, as well
as the rest of the teachers and the school administrators.

Why did you become a teacher?

Why do you want to work at this school?

Looking to attract top talent?

We'll shoot you some of our best tips to help you find the perfect candidates.

GO

What kinds of qualities do students look for in teachers?

What personality traits do teachers need to be successful?

How do you approach discipline and what role does it play in learning?

How do you interact with parents?

How have state, local, or common core standards affected your lesson planning process?

What do you think of technology in the classroom and how have you integrated it into your
lessons?
Top 6 Tips For Answering Teacher Interview Questions
1. Get personal.

As a teacher, you’re going to be directly involved in the lives of your students and their parents,
especially if you’re teaching early education. Teacher interview questions are meant to find
out more about you as both an educator and a person.

Make sure when you answer the questions that you’re giving actual personal answers and not an
easily memorized generic response. Use your answers as an opportunity to highlight your
skills and your background as well as your experience and how you would apply those to
situations you might encounter in the future.

2. Get specific.

This relates directly to the behavioral questions and how you should answer them. Use examples
from your own past and skills to illustrate exactly how you have done things in the past.

Start with a description of the example, explain the situation, and then explain what you did in
response to that situation. ( The STAR Method)

Remember, only relate successful stories that put you in a positive light. Wrap up with what you
learned and how you would apply that knowledge in future situations.

3. Get coordinated.

Just like any other job, do your research beforehand and make sure you draw attention to specific
skills you have that are directly listed in the job description. Before you head into the
interview, make a list of the desired qualifications based on the job description and match
those up with the skills you possess.

Use that list as a guideline for building your answers. Not only will it help you reinforce to them
why you’re the perfect candidate, it will help make answering those questions easier as you’re
already prepared.

4. Get educated.

We’ve already said it once, but we’ll say it again…do your research ahead of time. Look into the
school you’re applying to as well as the school district overall. Do you know anyone working
there already? Do you have friends who have children who are students at the school?

Any and all information you get ahead of time will not only help you determine what sort of
environment is at the school, but if you want to actually work there or not. On top of that,
coming into an interview with knowledge ahead of time about the academics, curriculum, sports,
and school programs shows initiative and enthusiasm.

5. Get cozy.

Be prepared for a possible panel interview. Education interviews are often conducted by multiple
individuals and may include the principal, teachers, parents, and members of the administrative
staff.

In some instances, there are education committees set up specifically to interview and screen
potential teachers.

6. Get honest!

We’ve said this probably a hundred times already and certainly in almost every blog post we’ve
ever published, but it’s so important we’re going to just keep saying it: BE HONEST! Don’t
ever lie your way into a position. You’ll only end up hurting yourself in the long run.

Now that we’ve gone over these tips, let’s take a look at the 5 most common interview questions
for teachers. We’ve listed them below and included a brief explanation with each one. Think of
them as a study guide to help guide your own answers…but remember…no copying! Make
them your own!

5 Common Teacher Interview Questions And Answers

1. Why did you decide to become a teacher?

This is probably the most often asked teacher question which means whoever is interviewing you
has probably heard just about every story in the book… Giving a standard “because I love
helping people learn” isn’t going to cut it here.

You want to give an answer that is heartfelt and genuine and really illustrates why you chose this
field. Take time before your interview to really reflect on why you’re doing what you’re doing.
Was there someone in your past who inspired you and you want to pay that forward and inspire
others? Draw from specific examples. Make your response thoughtful, genuine, and honest.

Example answer: When I was in third grade I struggled a lot with reading. I could never keep
up with lessons and I was always terrified of being called on to practice my reading out loud. I
started to doubt my own intelligence and was convinced that the bottom line was I was stupid. It
ended up affecting my grades and I started to fall behind. Rather than give up on me, my teacher
Miss Emily sat me down one day at lunch and really talked to me about what was going on. I
told her how hard it was for me to read and we discovered together that I wasn’t stupid, but was
having vision problems. She moved me to a desk that was closer to the front, made sure I was
able to see, and met with my parents to discuss options. Because of her my parents took me to a
doctor and my astigmatism was diagnosed. Because of Miss Emily I began to love learning
again. I want to be that teacher…the one who takes the time to really discover why students are
struggling and give another little girl like me an opportunity to learn to love learning again.

2. Why do you want to teach at this school?

This question is another common teaching interview question and a perfect example of why
preparing and practicing your answers before you get to the interview is critical! Use this
opportunity to provide specific reasons why you’re interested in the school by drawing on the
information you gathered during your research.

Whoever is interviewing you is genuinely interested in knowing if you’re actually interested in

the position or if you’re just sending out resumes and showing up for whoever calls you no
matter where they are. Having specific answers tailored to your audience shows enthusiasm,
initiative and dedication, all qualities that are valuable!

Example Answer: I’ve spent a lot of time researching schools within this district and I’m very
impressed with what you offer here. Between an award winning teaching staff and a district that
is very involved, your school has a teacher-to-student ratio that I think really allows for
personalized education. Smaller classroom sizes, like the ones you maintain here, make it
possible for me to give each child the one-on-one attention they deserve. On top of that, your
after-school science program is exciting to me and I would hope, should I get hired here, that I
might be able to become involved in that as well.

3. What can you bring to our school that makes you unique?

This question is pretty straight forward, and the perfect opportunity for you to really let your
unique qualities shine. Talk about activities you’ve participated in or passions you have that can
easily translate into teachable moments and classroom activities that fall outside the usual
curriculum that is currently being enacted. Don’t criticize what they’re doing, but explain how
what you’re bringing will augment and compliment what they’ve already got in place.
Example answer: I love science and exploring the natural world beyond the borders of the
classroom. For that reason, I started an after-school explorer’s club at my last school. We would
go on nature hikes, visit museums and invite local scientists and biologists to come speak to us
about what they’re working on and their research. The response was overwhelming and I have
students who still come up to me years later and tell me how much they loved our club and how it
helped inspire them to pursue careers in the sciences. I would be very interested in continuing
the legacy of the explorer’s club here.

4. What frustrates you the most in a classroom?

This question allows your interviewers to get to know what it takes to ruffle your feathers and
how you’ll behave when faced with that situation. Find a situation that is fairly common for all
teachers and then explain how you’ve dealt with that frustration. Remember, you want to focus
on positive aspects of your teaching style, so if you’re still frustrated with a situation and haven’t
figured out how to work around it yet, maybe don’t use that one as your example.

Example Answer: I have to admit, I get frustrated by the kids who think they’re too cool for
school and who float through their day doing as little as possible and the teachers who play into
that attitude. Rather than turn that frustration into anger or simply ignore them and wait for a
slacker to drift through a year in my class, I turn that frustration into a challenge for both the
student and myself. Most of the time those kids are too cool because of challenges they’re facing
outside of school and their attitude is a way for them to protect themselves. Sometimes all they
need is to know someone else believes in them. By giving them a little extra attention and
encouragement, I’ve seen some of the ‘coolest kids’ turn into students who are focused, driven
and ready to turn themselves around.

5. What is your teaching philosophy?

Everyone will have a unique answer to this question as everyone’s experiences with education,
experience, and own personal history will determine how they’ve shaped their own philosophy.
What drives you to teach? What is your approach to teaching and what guides you and how you
run your classroom? Take time before you get into the interview to really focus on what your
philosophy is and how you apply it every day.

Example Answer: I believe that the best learning opportunities are the ones that the students
come up with themselves. For that reason I spend every lunch hour on the playground with my
students and make myself available for them to ask me “playground-pop-quiz” questions. These
questions have ranged from everything from how is the ice cream we had at lunch made to
exploring the lifecycle of the mosquitos we found in a piece of playground equipment. I love
challenging the students to try to stump me and as a result, they go out of their way to explore
the environment around them, making learning fun and exciting.
6. How would you prepare your classroom if it was the first day of school?

7. How do you evaluate students?

8. Why do we teach “X” in school?

9. How do you communicate with parents?

10. What are your strengths and weaknesses as a teacher?

Do You Have Any Questions For Me?

If you’ve ever been to a job interview, you know that at the end of the questioning period you
will usually be asked if you have any questions of your own.

This is the gold mine question and one that serves two distinct purposes. It gives you an
opportunity to get information you might not have been able to gather during your research
period while also allowing you one more chance to demonstrate you are the perfect candidate by
having a pre-prepared list of questions you’d like answered.

While a list of questions might seem odd, it shows an interviewer that you’re so interested in the
position that you’ve take the time to really think about working there and want more information.

Good questions to ask include:

 Can you tell me a little about the culture here at the school?
 What is a typical day like?
 Are there any qualities you’re looking for in a teacher that were not listed in the job
description?
 Is there a teacher mentoring program here?
 Are there opportunities for furthering my education available here?
 What is the average classroom size?
 How are the classrooms equipped? Is this a wired school?
 What goals and expectations do you have for your teachers?
 Are there any challenges the school/district is facing that I should be aware of?
 Is there an active PTA here?
 How is the relationship between the parents and the school?
 Is the school a part of the community?
 How does this school handle student discipline?
 How does it handle bullying?

1. Why do you want to be a teacher?

“Why did you become a teacher?” is the most common of all interview questions for teachers.
Administrators want to know you’re motivated to work through inevitable frustrations. And
believe me, they’ve heard every generic answer in the books.

“Because I want to help people” won’t work. Find something specific that shows you’re
motivated like no other.

Example Answer

I had trouble reading as a child My 4th grade teacher, Mrs. Paulette, introduced us to an
amazing list of short stories and books. She read to us and worked with us on reading
comprehension. Her care switched on an unquenchable thirst that led me to read thousands of
books on topics as diverse as history, biology, sociology, and nature. Mrs. Paulette’s attention
forever changed my outlook on life. Since then, I’ve known I wanted to do exactly what she did—
to give children tools to last for their entire lives.

2. What is your teaching philosophy?

Teacher interview questions like this ask, “Are you a good fit for our school?” It’s the teaching
equivalent of “tell me about yourself.”

But—

Don’t answer elementary teacher interview questions for an unstructured school with, “I believe
in structured learning.”

Take the time to learn the school’s philosophy before the interview.

Example Answer

I believe in teaching to each student’s passion. For instance, in one kindergarten class, my
students had trouble with punctuation. I observed that one student, Mary, suddenly got excited
about apostrophes. I fueled her passion with a big book on punctuation. Her enthusiasm was
contagious, and soon the entire class was asking bright and animated questions. Whenever
possible, I try to deliver structured lessons in an unstructured way like this.
 3. How much do you want to know about your students in order to be most helpful to
them?

This is another of those interview questions for teachers that depends on the school’s philosophy.

One administrator might think it’s crucial to know every detail. Another might say, “A doctor
doesn’t need to know her patient’s favorite ice cream flavor.”

Be honest, but find common ground, as in this teaching interview questions answer:

Example Answer

I need to know a student’s learning styles, passions, and challenges. One difficult student, Tim,
was disruptive in class. I joined him on the playground on and off. It turned out he was being
bullied after school by his brother’s friends. I spoke with Tim’s parents, and they had no idea.
Tim became my star student, and as a result, my whole class got quieter and easier to teach.

How to Prepare for a Teaching Interview:

 Research the school online and talk to teachers. Learn their challenges.
 Brainstorm times you’ve solved problems like theirs.
 Practice sample teacher interview questions. Write up your answers and drill with 3x5 cards.
When possible, describe a problem you once faced, an action you took, and a positive result for
your school or student(s).
 Gather materials like a lesson plan, Praxis scores, and transcripts. Include images as proof of
your accomplishments.

4. Why do you want to work for our school district?

Administrators want to know if you really want this job.

So—find things you love about the school.

Talk to teachers who work there. Check out the school’s website, mission statement, and “About
Us” page.

Finally, take some time to think of how you fit.

Example Answer

I respect Snowy Peaks High’s belief in teaching to the whole child. Your focus on academics,
character, community, and nature fit perfectly with my own philosophy. It’s easier to teach well-
rounded students. The best lesson plan in the world can’t help a child who’s struggling in all
other areas of life.

5. How can you help our school/students?

Teacher interview questions like this don’t have to make you blink.

Remember:

Take the time to learn the school’s needs first.

The example below is for a school with a high percentage of disruptive students.
Example Answer

I’ve talked to several of your teachers and heard about their challenges with classroom
management. My own classroom management skills are highly developed. I’ve taken 18
continuing education credits in class management from the University of Phoenix’s online
program. I was commended at my last school after fully engaging a class with over 25%
disruptive students. I used a mix of nonverbal cues, transition cues, timeouts, and several other
kernel-based strategies. I believe I can be just as effective here.

6. What do you find most frustrating about teaching?

Teaching interview questions like this attempt to see if you are easily discouraged.

So—your answer has to show your inner strength.

Example Answer

I get very frustrated with bright kids who become overconfident and don’t apply themselves.
There’s nothing sadder or more common than wasted potential. At my last position, I worked
with several children who weren’t trying. I implemented a research-based program to
incorporate student ideas into the lesson plan. The addition of their thoughts created more
complete engagement. Test scores went up 15% in just two months.

Pro Tip: Teaching is frustrating. Many common interview questions for teachers focus on that
pain. Don’t minimize it. Instead, explain your skills at working through it.

7. Why should we hire you to teach here?

This is the teacher interview questions equivalent of the old standby, “Why should we hire you?”

The example answer below is for a school that wants technology in the curriculum.

Example Answer

I’m well aware of your new technology initiative. We were tasked with the same challenge at my
last school. Thanks to my strong tech background, I was able to add online quizzes easily. The
students loved them, and they cut administrative processing by 25%.

8. How would you get your classroom ready for the first day of school?

This and similar teacher interview questions look at your preparedness.

First steps create a first impression. Your plan for first steps says a lot about your teaching skills.

Example Answer

I want my classroom to be welcoming and nurturing. I also make the ground rules obvious. A
welcome sign and labeled desks help students feel at home from day one. Engaging posters and
other visual aids help create a sense of excitement. Beyond fun, a large list of rules and
consequences at the front of the room helps the class start on the right foot.

9. Why do we teach (science, math, French, etc.) in school?

Why does your subject matter to you?

If you say, “So they can get good jobs,” you’ll flunk common interview questions for teachers
like this.

Think why you care about the subject at a gut level.

Example Answer

I’ve always believed our future depends on regular people using science in day-to-day decisions.
Science is at the core of a sense of wonder for our natural world. That wonder can drive students
to improve their learning skills. It can take them places they never thought they’d go.

Bring a lesson plan, transcripts, and Praxis scores. Be ready to answer a question about teaching
philosophy. Be familiar with newest lingo, assessments instead of tests, and the use of rubrics to correct
assignments

Paula Bean

H.S. Teacher

10. How do you evaluate your students?

Common teacher interview questions like this examine how you measure your performance.
As usual, avoid generic answers. Cite an accomplishment and how it helped your students.

Example Answer

I evaluate students with formal and informal methods, including quizzes and tests. I also grade
in-class activities like reports, recitations, desk work, and group activities. One student, Terry,
showed a strong grasp of concepts during in-class activities, but performed poorly during
testing. Through working closely with him, I uncovered an undiagnosed vision problem. Terry
got corrective lenses and his test scores rose to match his in-class comprehension.

Beware. Teaching interview questions like the above may look for whether you use assessments
vs tests.

Know what differentiation and universal design are. Be ready to discuss working with students with both
identified and unidentified disabilities. Be able to explain how to flip a classroom. Explain that you’ll be
very willing to communicate with and work with parents. Explain scope and sequence. Know who Ross
Greene, Ruby Payne and Donna Beagle are. Be able to talk about how you’d apply their work in your
classroom.

The next 15 interview questions for teachers aren’t on the A-list.

As one of my teachers used to say, prepare for them anyway because they may be on the test.

You never know which teaching job interview question you might face. More prep = less chance
of a flub.

11. What are your strengths as a teacher?

12. What’s your biggest weakness as a teacher?
13. How do you interact with parents?
14. Why did you leave your last teaching (or other) job?
 15. What’s your educational background?
16. Where do you see yourself in five years?
17. How do you handle classroom management?
18. What’s your favorite subject?
19. What do you like best about teaching?
20. Tell me about your teaching style
21. How do you manage your time to get all your teaching duties done within schedule?
22. What’s the biggest challenge today’s students face?
23. Describe your worst day in class.
24. How do you motivate students to learn?
25. How have you helped a “tough” student?

Those are the top 25 teacher interview questions and answers. Want one more question to rule
them all? That’s coming in a second.

Be flexible. “On the way to my first teaching interview, I was caught in a downpour and my car
broke down. I still nailed every question. Then they asked to see my portfolio. I unzipped it and a
big puddle of water splashed out onto the principal’s lap. I said, “I’m pretty sure this is a sign
that this is not the place for me.” He laughed and offered me the job.

Bad dream:

You walk into the teaching interview. You sit. You’re sweating buckets.

They start asking questions. You umm and ahh.

Suddenly you realize you’re in your underwear.

Sound familiar?

Before we wrap up the top 25 teacher interview questions and answers, let’s take one minute to
prepare.
The teacher interview tips below will jack your confidence up to the ceiling tiles.

Teaching Interview Tips

 Know the lingo. What are AYP goals? Who are Wiggins and Marzano? What are rubrics? What
should you know about proficiency-based models? Brush up on your terms and be ready to
discuss them.
 Prepare for common interview questions for teachers. Learn the school’s needs. Then
brainstorm accomplishments that show how you can help.
 Bring a portfolio. It’s not for them to read. It’s evidence of your teaching interview answers.
Bring materials that shows achievements, like lesson plans, worksheets, and images.
 Dress professionally—more professionally than you would for work. That sends the message
that you take the interview seriously.
 Listen. The more you ask and listen, the fewer interview questions for teachers you’ll have to
answer. Plus, interested = interesting.
 Make eye contact with the principal and all other interviewers.

What to Bring to a Teaching Interview:

Bring a complete portfolio with student work samples, your evaluations, a copy of transcripts , your
teaching license, and your Praxis scores. If you have a completed unit plan with feedback bring it as well.

SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips

The 14 College Interview Questions You Must Prepare For

Posted by Justin Berkman | May 1, 2018 8:00:00 PM

College Admissions
The college interview process can be nerve-racking. This interview gives the college you're
applying to another opportunity to evaluate you and help determine whether or not to offer you
admission. However, your college interviews won't be nearly as scary if you know what to
expect.

In this article, I give you the 14 college interview questions you absolutely must prepare for.
I explain why you're being asked these questions and how to provide great answers.
Furthermore, I offer advice on how to prepare for your interviews so that when the time comes,
you'll be ready to ace them.

A Short Introduction to College Interviews

A college interview provides a college with an opportunity to give you more information about
the school and answer any questions. In addition, the interview gives the college a chance to
learn more about you, your interests, and how you’ll be able to contribute to the school.

Very few colleges require interviews, although a fair number offer optional or recommended
ones. These are typically highly selective or small private colleges, such as Columbia,
Occidental, and Bates. Most large public universities don’t even offer interviews because
there are simply too many applicants.

Check a college’s website or contact its admissions office to determine whether interviews are
offered and how to schedule one. Interviews can be on-campus, usually with an admissions
representative, or off-campus near where you live, usually with an alumnus of the college.

If you have the option of getting interviewed, do it. It’s to your benefit to take advantage of an
opportunity to interview because it shows the school that you’re genuinely interested in
attending. And demonstrating interest can greatly help your chances of admission. Finally, the
interview gives the school another chance to get to know you outside of what’s in your
application.
Try not to stress about the interview too much, though. As long as you’re polite, attentive,
and prepared, it should only help your chances of getting accepted. The interview will also give
you an opportunity to learn more about the school, and help you decide whether or not it
might be a good fit for you.
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The 14 Most Common College Interview Questions

The questions I’m listing and explaining were either referenced in multiple admissions websites
and interview advice guides, or are general enough that you’ll be able to answer a number of
similar questions by preparing for them.

Below, I provide you with each question. I then explain why colleges are asking it, what they're
looking for in a response, and how you can prepare for the question ahead of time.

Question 1: Tell Me About Yourself

This isn’t even actually a question, but it’s something you might be asked to do in an interview.
Because it’s so general, you might have trouble figuring out where to begin.

Why they're asking this: Colleges are asking you to do this because they really do want to
know more about you. That's one of the primary purposes of the interview, after all!

What they're looking for: You need to paint a unique portrait of who you are to separate
yourself from other applicants. Avoid clichés or descriptions that would be too common. For
example, don’t just say you’re hardworking—explain what has driven you to become as diligent
as you are and why you feel it is important.

How to prepare: Rehearse answering this question. Try talking about your passions, hobbies,
and interests. You can discuss what inspires you or what your friends like about you. Be specific.
Again, you want to make yourself memorable.
Question 2: Why Are You Interested In This College?

Why they're asking this: This is an important question and one you should definitely prepare
for, since colleges want to see that you’re taking the application process seriously and have a
legitimate interest in attending the school.

What they're looking for: Talk about your interest in a major or academic program, the cultural
values of the school, or extracurricular activities that drew you to the college. Again, be thorough
and specific. Don’t talk about prestige or rankings, and don't say you just want to go there
because it’s close to home; none of this shows genuine interest in this specific college!

How to prepare: To answer this question well, you'll need to conduct extensive college
research before the interview. You should be able to cite specifics when answering this
question. Follow the same advice as if you were writing the answer to this question for your
application essay.

Question 3: Why Do You Want to Major in _____?

If you've indicated that you want to major in a certain subject, you might be asked why you’re
interested in that particular field.

Why they're asking this: Colleges are interested in your academic goals and want to see that
you’re academically inclined.

What they're looking for: Talk about why a certain subject inspires you or why you're
passionate about it. Don’t say that you’re pursuing a certain major to make a lot of money
or have job security. That doesn’t demonstrate genuine academic interest; it just makes you
seem shallow.
How to prepare: Think deeply about why you want to pursue a specific major. Why do you find
it fascinating? What experiences provoked your interest in the subject? How will the major
enable you to reach your future professional goals?

Question 4: What Are Your Academic Strengths?

Why they're asking this: In an effort to get to know you as a student, colleges are interested in
getting your perspective on where you excel academically.

What they're looking for: Don’t make this answer too short. Don’t just say, "I’m good at
science." When discussing your academic strengths, explain how you’ve capitalized on your
strengths. If you’re an excellent writer, for example, how have you used your writing skills to
excel in school? How do you plan on continuing to use your strengths?

How to prepare: Make sure you know your academic strengths. You should be able to explain
how you recognized your strengths, how you're currently using them, and how you plan to use
them in the future.

Question 5: What Are Your Academic Weaknesses? How Have You Addressed Them?

Why they're asking this: Colleges want to admit good students, but they’re aware everyone has
strengths and weaknesses. Colleges want to see that you have the persistence and work ethic to
succeed despite your challenges.

What they're looking for: Schools want students who can demonstrate their ability to confront
and overcome challenges. Try revealing strategies or specific approaches you’ve taken to
improve your academic weaknesses. You could also tell a specific story about how you managed
to do well in a subject that was especially difficult for you.

How to prepare: Be aware of your academic weaknesses and how you've addressed them. It's
not good to say that you don't have any weaknesses. That's not very believable, and you'll
come off as arrogant.
Question 6: What Do You Plan to Contribute to This School?

Why they're asking this: Colleges want to admit students who will make positive contributions
to campus and academic life. Essentially, they’re looking for students who will make the school
better.

What they're looking for: In short, specifics. Don’t limit your answer to vague positive traits.
Don’t just say you’ll contribute a good work ethic and a regard for others. Is there specific
research you wish to pursue? Do you want to have a leadership position in an extracurricular
activity? Are there specific community service projects you want to do? How will your presence
on campus and in the classroom make a difference?

How to prepare: Know the specific contributions you want to make to the school. Identify your
college goals as well as the activities you want to pursue while you're in college.

Question 7: What Do You Expect to Be Doing 10 Years From Now?

Why they're asking this: Just to set the record straight, you don’t need to have your entire
future figured out. Colleges understand that you probably won’t have everything decided and
your plans are likely to change. What they do want is students with direction.

What they're looking for: Colleges want students who are motivated to achieve their goals. The
bad, general answer is to only say you expect to have a fulfilling career and be making a positive
impact on the world. What are some specific activities you’d like to do? How do you plan on
impacting the world? You don’t have to limit your plans to professional goals. Do you want to
take your mom on a vacation? Or have weekly gatherings with your best friends from high
school?
How to prepare: You can write down some detailed notes answering this question. Paint a
picture of the life you want to have in 10 years. That picture should reveal your uniqueness.

Question 8: What Would You Change About Your High School?

Why they're asking this: With this question, colleges are looking for your ability to identify
problems and get a better understanding of what you’re looking for in a school. By learning
what you’d change, they get a chance to learn more about what matters to you.

What they're looking for: Colleges want a thoughtful response. Be specific and respectful.
Don’t say, "I’d get better teachers." Say that you’d allocate more resources to the music
department so that more students can have the opportunity to learn how to play new instruments.
Discuss how learning an instrument helped you, and describe the current state of the music
department. Try to make it clear that you want to improve your school to benefit the personal
and academic growth of all of its students.

How to prepare: Think about the strengths and weaknesses of your high school. What are some
specific problems it has? What are the consequences of those problems? What steps would you
take to make improvements?

uestion 9: Whom Do You Most Admire?

Why they're asking this: From this question, colleges can get a sense of your values. If the
person you most admire is Justin Bieber, for example, colleges might wonder about your
priorities.

What they're looking for: Don’t limit your answer just to naming the person. Why do you
admire that person? For instance, many people say that the person they most admire is a parent.
But what specifically has that parent done that you admire so much? In short, don’t forget the
details.

How to prepare: Think deeply about your response to this question. If the person you admire is
somebody you know, practice by giving your answer to that person. You'll know you've
answered the question well if you're rewarded with a hug or even a few tears from your audience.

Question 10: What Is Your Favorite Book?

Why they're asking this: This question is designed to help schools learn more about your
interests. Colleges also probably want to make sure that you actually read books.
What they're looking for: Don't limit your answer to the name of a book; think about why you
like the book so much. How did it inspire you? Did a particular character resonate with you? Did
you learn something from this book that influenced your opinions or behavior? Did this book
help shape your perspective or values?

How to prepare: Really think about books you've read that you connected with and why. I've
also seen similar questions asking about a news article you recently read, so try to stay up to date
with the news, too!

Question 11: Why Do You Want to Go to College?

Why they're asking this: For this question, schools are trying to understand why you’re
motivated to pursue higher education.

What they're looking for: Colleges want to see you have clear goals you’re trying to
accomplish by attending college. Obviously, they don’t want to hear that you want to go to
college because your parents are making you or so you can attend wild parties. In your answer,
emphasize how college will allow you to pursue your passions, aid in your personal
development, and enable you to fulfill your future goals. Be specific. What are your passions
and goals? How will college give you an opportunity to pursue these passions? What college
activities will increase your awareness and facilitate your intellectual and emotional growth?

How to prepare: For ideas, check out the pros in my article about if you should go to college.
Question 12: What Do You Like to Do for Fun?

Why they're asking this: This question is designed to get a better sense of your general interests
and overall personality.

What they're looking for: Your answer doesn’t only have to include activities that are
academic. After all, you probably wouldn’t be believed if you said all you do for fun is read
science textbooks and do math problems. If some of what you do for fun is intellectual, though,
explain why you find these activities fun. Finally, try to avoid general answers such as "hang
out with friends."

How to prepare: You shouldn't have to prepare much for this question since I assume you
already know what you like to do for fun. However, spend some time thinking about why you
enjoy these activities.
Question 13: What Is an Obstacle You've Faced and How Did You Get Through It?

Why they're asking this: Colleges want to know if you've faced (and overcome) any significant
challenges in your life. They also want to see that you’re persistent and willing to work hard in
order to overcome these obstacles.

What they're looking for: It’s fine if you haven’t had some awful, incredibly difficult obstacle
in your life. Think of a time when you faced a problem that challenged you, and you put in a lot
of effort to solve it. Your obstacle could be related to your home life, school, or an
extracurricular activity. In your response, explain how the obstacle challenged you and
emphasize what exactly you did to overcome it.

How to prepare: Think of a significant challenge you've had in your life and how you dealt with
it. What did you learn from the problem? How did you solve it? Did it change or influence the
way you address similar problems?

Question 14: What Makes You Unique?

Why they're asking this: This question is essentially what all the other questions above are
meant to determine. It's another general question that's often difficult to answer. We are all
unique, but it can be hard to put into words exactly what separates you from other people.

What they're looking for: Schools ask this question because they want to get to know you
better. You can discuss a trait or multiple traits you possess. Give examples and stories that
demonstrate these qualities. Do you have any uncommon interests or goals? Is your background
very unique?

How to prepare: I recommend doing some serious brainstorming to address this question. Write
out specific attributes and anecdotes you can share that demonstrate your uniqueness. When do
you feel most comfortable? What makes you the proudest?
 What makes you special?

How to Prepare for College Interview Questions

For each of these questions, I recommend jotting down some notes so that you can remember
key points or details. Don’t try to completely write out your answers and memorize them. The
way you speak in an interview is supposed to appear conversational and not rehearsed. Also, if
you try to memorize your answers and forget your script during the interview, you’ll end up
looking confused and unsure of yourself.

Practice your responses by having somebody ask you these questions and then answering them
as if you were actually in the interview. Remember that you want to be as specific and
detailed as possible. Learn to separate yourself from all the other applicants being interviewed.

For some of these questions, it'll be helpful to review your personal statement. Your personal
statement likely has some details or stories you can incorporate into some of your answers.

ypical questions you can expect to answer when interviewing for academic teaching and research
positions. Expect to answer 4-6 questions for a 20-30 minute screening interview.

General

 What about the job description attracted you to this position? OR Why are you interested in
working at our campus? --- Note: They are trying to discover “fit” and possibly if you are serious
about a big move.
  What is the difference between a liberal arts college and a research university? OR Why a
liberal arts college? OR Why a state college? Are you comfortable with our campus’ mission?
--- Note: This may come from a college with religious affiliation and may include the expectation
that you will participate in campus worship. It is illegal to specifically ask about religious
affiliation in a job interview. Be sure to research expectations before you apply and be prepared
to answer this question honestly.
 What can you tell us about yourself that stands out from other candidates?
 Will you take the job if it is offered to you?
 How have you contributed to service in your department or the discipline?
 What questions do you have about our campus?

On teaching

 What is your teaching philosophy? OR Briefly outline your teaching philosophy and its
application to teaching an introductory course entitled, “XX”.
 How would you handle an increasingly diverse student population? OR What will you do to
encourage participation and diversity at our school? OR We are very proud of our success in
fostering diversity with the field; X campus represents a very diverse community and fostering
diversity is very important to us as a group. What have you done to foster diversity and how
would you do that here at XX campus?
 What things have you done to “capture” student’s attention in the classroom? OR What
things would you do to inspire students in XX class at our institution? OR How do you inspire
students in XX discipline?
 Of the classes you are interested in teaching here, how do you see them interacting and
supporting classes from other areas within your own discipline? How about classes from
outside your discipline?
 What courses are you prepared (feel confident/enthusiastic) to immediately teach at our
campus? AND/OR What course would you be interested in developing over a longer
period? AND/OR Which of our courses would you prefer NOT to teach?
 Are you willing (confident) in organizing lab classes?
 How would you structure an outreach program?
 How would you teach XX specific class at our campus?
 Give us an example of both the WORST (BEST) experience you have had when
teaching? OR What is the biggest challenge you have had as a teacher and how did you deal
with it?

On research

 How would you balance research with the demands of teaching?

 How would you incorporate undergraduates (graduates, postdocs) into your research?
 How would you characterize your research? OR What is your dissertation about? OR Where
do you see your research going from here? OR What contribution does your research make to
the discipline?
 What research would you anticipate doing here at our campus? OR We read your piece on X,
we would like to know more about your research plans specific to our campus. OR How does
your research fit in with our current faculties’ research?
  How would you go about and where would you anticipating finding funding for your
research? OR Where do you see yourself applying for grants?
 How much financial support do you need for your research? OR What kind of equipment and
space would you need for your research?
 What are the strengths and weaknesses of XX research methodology (e.g., survey research). ---
Note: expect discipline specific, methodological or substantive research questions!
 Can you tell me more about XX? (Where XX is my specific research area and the faculty member
asking is from a different subfield or field and doesn’t know much about it.)

You may also be asked questions which are inappropriate, even illegal. You can gracefully
decline to answer or answer as you see fit. Some questions might be:

 Do you have a partner? And, what do they do? OR Are they in the same field as you?
 Do you have children? OR Do you expect to have children?