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Though this is a strange term here in Nigeria, universities abroad often conduct interviews for applicants especially for post-graduate studies that involve school Scholarships and research grants.
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Interviews for college admissions are often either instructive or evaluative. To be admitted to highly esteemed universities, you can anticipate evaluation interviews.
In this case, the university admissions officers’ decision to give you a spot would be based on how well you performed in the interview. You can learn more about the university and the university can learn more about you by participating in an enlightening interview. Because they want you to choose their university, the university admissions staff may be just as eager to impress you as you are to impress them in this situation. Of course, both instructive and evaluative aspects may be included in your university interview.
What makes you unique?
The interviewers for university admissions will probably be meeting a lot of applicants, so you should consider how you may differentiate yourself and make a strong first impression. Try to come up with a memorable response when interviewers ask you about yourself (a question that will probably be asked, in some form). This is your chance to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the subject you have selected, your future goals, and the traits you have that will help you succeed academically.
Get familiar with your personal statement or statement of purpose
The tutors who are interviewing you are also likely to bring up topics you’ve discussed in your personal statement or application essay, whether it’s a claim about a particular pastime or an accomplishment. (This is only one of the many reasons it’s crucial to be honest.) Reread your essay and think of any questions that might be asked in the interview that are linked to what you wrote, such as inquiries about specific books you cited or areas of academic interest.
Go through the course information
It’s also a good idea to review the university’s prospectus or official website for detailed information on the course’s organization, admission requirements, and optional modules available, among other suggestions. There is usually a chance to do this, even in a performance interview, and it will help you demonstrate that you have done thorough research on the course. It may also help you come up with some insightful questions for the admissions officers. Check to see if the answers to the queries you have haven’t already been covered in the course materials.
Carry out some pre-emptive strikes
Okay that heading I a tad too dramatic, but here’s what I mean Think ahead or research common Interview questions and plan your answers to them.
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You’ll probably be asked “tell me about yourself” in addition to “why do you want to study this subject at this university?” Your interviewer could be curious to know why you want to study in that particular nation and what initially drew you to studying abroad if you are studying abroad. Be as specific as you can in your response to demonstrate to your interviewer your enthusiasm for both their university and your subject.
‘NO GO DO PASS YOURSELF’
While some advance planning is advised, avoid going overboard. Make sure your responses sound natural rather than overly prepared. Although it’s obviously easier said than done, try to unwind and be yourself throughout the interview.
Get familiar with your course
You should be well-ready to explain your reasons for enrolling in the course you have chosen, as well as why you are interested in the subject you have chosen, with your interviewer. Reading up on the most recent news, analysis, and advancements in the subject is another way to show that you are interested. Some of these topics might be expressly mentioned in the question, or you might just be able to use them as examples.
Try going over the most typical university interview questions with a friend or family member if this is your first formal interview or if you’re just feeling extremely anxious.
Normal Interview etiquette
Be early and dress appropriately!
Your interview is definitely going to be virtual. Get a quite place where there would be no interference or disturbance, you don’t want to the interviewers hear your mum calling you to come do the dishes. Make sure your devices are fully charged, you may want to use some place that is properly lightened. Also get enough data plan and ensure your Internet connection is strong, nothing frustrates an online meeting like poor network.
Even though university admissions interviews are frequently somewhat relaxed, it is always preferable to dress up rather than down. Make a solid first impression by dressing in business casual or smart casual, like you would for a formal job interview.
Finally, keep in mind that the university interview is typically not taken into account on its own when deciding whether to admit you as a student. Also keep in mind that the admissions committee is genuinely considering awarding you a spot because they have clearly been impressed enough with you to offer you an interview. Even if you’re internally afraid, make an effort to smile; it will help you feel better and demonstrate to your interviewers that you’re enthusiastic about the job.