General questions
Tell me about yourself? How would you describe yourself? Tell us about your current
course? What are you best at? What are your main interests?
These are self awareness questions, so think now about your key personality characteristics,
your general and study interests. Try and be relevant - that is, mention those personality
qualities and interests that match the course.
NOTE - interviewers react well to enthusiasm so using words like 'fascinated' helps to give an
enthusiastic impression.
Why do you want to study for a degree? What do you think university can offer you?
What else, apart from study, interests you about university? Why do you want to study
at this university?
Example answer- I believe that studying at university level will benefit my future career
and I look forward to the opportunity of university to broaden my horizons and build
up my skills and confidence.
Why do you want to study (whatever subject you have applied for) Psychology?
What do you know about the course? What attracts you to this course?
Let the interviewer understand your personal motivation for the subject, giving evidence and
examples if possible.
I want to study Psychology because I have enjoyed this at A level/self study and want to
take this knowledge further. I particularly like the structure of this university course
because of....... A recent field trip confirmed my enthusiasm for....
Topical questions
Interviewers love to ask your opinion on something topical, that is something in the news or
related to your subject. Prepare to offer an opinion!
You can do this by reading the Psychology related magazines. Assemble them in a folder and
think about how you could respond to a question on these topics.
• Consider your gut reaction to the topic and how others with alternative views might
argue
• Show balanced thinking and present your ideas and conclude with your particular
view
• Be prepared to justify your angle on the topic
Give me an example of a time when... you dealt with a problem, or overcame some
obstacles, or worked in as team to achieve an outcome etc
Or
If you were asked to....do something creative about ......what would you do?
With these questions it is a good idea to ask for them to be repeated so you gain time for a
considered response. Try and show lateral thinking (not just one dimensional thinking but all
round the subject thinking) and show how you weigh up and consider carefully.
Remember, you do not need to parrot text book answers but show who you are and why you
want to study at that university. Preparation (that means considering likely questions)
means that you will be ready for them whatever happens and you will come across naturally
confident.