Pretend your university interview is a first date—or perhaps a Valentine’s Day supper. You want things to go well from the beginning, make a positive impression, and be your best self. Because, hey, this might be your key to attending your dream school. Here’s how to ensure you ace that initial encounter.
After you’ve submitted your application, the next major hurdle could be an interview with a university representative. This is their initial opportunity to see you in person, so you’ll want to present yourself at your best. A solid first impression can create the tone for the entire conversation—and possibly even impact their final decision.
So how do you ensure that you present yourself as confident, well-prepared, and the ideal candidate for their program? Here are a few easy but vital tips that will make you stand out.
1. Be there on time—Because being late starts everything off wrong
No one enjoys waiting, particularly not busy university employees. Arriving late gives the impression of being unorganized or neglectful—not the kind of impression you wish to make. Furthermore, dashing in at the last moment will only leave you frazzled and tense before you have a chance to begin speaking.
Before the day of the big event, get some planning done. Check the route, work out how long it will take, and perhaps even do a trial run if you’re unsure. Delayed public transport? Traffic? Allow yourself a bit of extra time just in case.
But suppose something goes wrong—perhaps your train is canceled, or you’re stuck in terrible traffic. If you see you’re running late, don’t fret. Call or text the individual who scheduled your interview immediately. Tell them what’s going on, apologize, and inform them of when you will get there. Honesty and politeness can take you a long way. When you do arrive, a quick apology is sufficient—then concentrate on making the rest of your interview run smoothly.
2. Bring Only What You Need—No More, No Less
A few weeks before your interview, check what documents or materials you’re supposed to bring. Then, get everything ready ahead of time so you’re not scrambling at the last minute.
Here’s a good checklist:
Two printed copies of your personal statement or college essay (just in case).
A notebook and pen to jot down important notes.
A list of questions you’ve prepared to ask the interviewer.
Directions to the interview site and phone numbers (in case you get lost).
You may not necessarily need all of these, but being prepared is better than not being prepared. Keep things tidy in a folder or little bag—you don’t want to be rummaging through a cluttered backpack when the interviewer requests something.
Entering with just what you have in mind shows that you are confident and in charge. And when you feel ready, you will tend to feel more at ease and ready to impress.
3. Be Courteous to Everyone—Not Just the Interviewer
As soon as you walk onto campus, keep in mind: first impressions are not just about the interviewer. Treat everyone with respect and kindness—receptionists, students, even the person who brings you to the waiting room. You never know whom they might tell the admissions team about you.
And, to boot, being courteous is just good practice—whether you’re at an interview, meeting strangers, or even on a blind date.
4. Hang Up Your Phone and Concentrate
It is natural to feel nervous while going for an interview, and at times, flipping through your phone appears as a convenient distraction. However, if your interviewer enters and finds you gazing at the screen, it may make you appear unprepared, anxious, or—worse than that—like you don’t care.
Rather, utilize the waiting time to review your notes, look over your résumé, or rehearse your responses to standard questions. When the interviewer shows up, you’ll be sharp and prepared.
When the interview itself commences, keep your phone silent and out of view. You don’t want distracting beeps disrupting your focus—or theirs.
Sit up straight and look at the interviewer during the conversation. You don’t have to stare constantly (that won’t feel natural), but ensure that you’re listening intently and interested. Nod, smile, and respond normally to what they are saying.
5. Ask Questions Too—Make It a Conversation
An interview is not an interrogation. View it as more of a first date—you want to establish common ground and keep the conversation going.
Don’t simply reply to their questions, ask a few of your own. For instance:
“What is it that you most enjoy about this university?”
“Are there any books or other resources you would recommend for my course?”
“How is the campus community?”
Having a few well-thought-out questions ready beforehand indicates that you are really interested. And it makes the whole experience more enjoyable and natural.
6. Dress Smart (But You Don’t Need a Full Suit)
What you wear won’t determine whether or not you get in, but neat and tidy dressing contributes to making the best first impression. Don’t have to dress up in a suit (unless it’s that sort of university), but don’t dress too casually either.
Think clean, neat, and professional. A crisp blouse or button-down shirt with neat trousers or a skirt is generally a safe bet. The most important thing is to look like you’ve gone to the trouble—because you have!
Final Thought: Treat It Like a First Date
These interview tips aren’t exclusive to interviews—use them for first dates, meetings, and any other time you need to make a fantastic impression. Apply them, and you’ll stride into your university interview confident, prepared, and ready to shine.
