How to pass a scholarship interview
A good interview is important when applying for a university scholarship. Not only will being prepared help improve your performance in the interview, but it will help to alleviate some of your pre-interview nerves. We’ve put some tips together to help you pass your scholarship interview!Â
Know your stuff
Do your research before your interview and show them that you know about the college, course, university and location that you’re applying for. It will impress the interviewer if you’re able to talk about more than just the generalities of the university and it’s offering.
Be ready for questions
In the scholarship interview, you will be asked a range of questions that focus on getting to know more about you, why you would be a great student and what you might want for your future. Think beforehand about how you might answer questions about any future academic or career plans, so that you are not thrown off on the day. You may also want to have a question or two ready to ask them, to really show your interest and that you know exactly what you are applying for.
Go for gold
Know what you are passionate about and what has motivated you to apply to your chosen university and course. The interviewer will want to see that you have a keen interest in what you have applied to study, so don’t be afraid to talk about your interests with confidence.
Plan ahead
Make sure you know when your interview is, so that you can plan your day around it and ensure that you are ready to start a few minutes early. Try and get any preparation done in the days leading up to the interview, so that on the day you can just focus on getting yourself ready.
Check your tech
Before a virtual interview, it’s important to check your technology. Make sure that have a fast, reliable internet connection, your laptop is fully charged and that your microphone and camera are working perfectly. If you need to set up an account or download anything before your video call, make sure you do so ahead of time.
Taking these steps to prepare will help you perform to the best of your ability, reduce nerves, and ace your scholarship interview.
Common questions asked in a scholarship interview
Tell us about yourself.
Example: Include the things you’re most interested in or that you care about, particularly those that are related to your course of choice. Keep your answer succinct and show your personality.
What is your greatest strength?
Choose a strength of yours that you can back up with evidence, be sure to mention concrete examples that prove the strength of yours.
What is your biggest weakness?
It is fine to identify weaknesses as long as you can learn from them. Show that you are introspective and can identify your weak spots, but mention any ways in which you are working to improve on them.
What are your career goals?
For this question,, identify your goal and where you see yourself in 5/10 years time. Ensure you consider how your chosen course and this scholarship would help you achieve your goal and explain this to your interviewer.
Why do you want to apply for this university specifically?
This question allows you to show the interviewer your interest in the university and the research that you have done. Include specifics about the university’s offering where possible, rather than generic facts. Perhaps mention the local area, societies and other activities you are interested in too.